bbcuk--2020-01-08--Villa hold Leicester in Carabao Cup semi-final

Kelechi Iheanacho 's equaliser gave Leicester City a deserved draw to leave the Carabao Cup semi-final against Aston Villa delicately poised after an entertaining encounter at the King Power Stadium .
Substitute Iheanacho finished emphatically from Jamie Vardy 's pass with 16 minutes left to give The Foxes the reward their incessant second-half pressure merited to set up a tense second leg at Villa Park .
Villa , struggling with injuries after goalkeeper Tom Heaton and striker Wesley were ruled out for the season , defended with organisation and resilience to protect the lead given to them after 28 minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far post to meet Anwar El Ghazi 's cross .
Ezri Konsa 's header also struck the bar for Villa but Leicester applied most of the pressure with keeper Orjan Nyland saving twice from James Maddison and Vardy , who also shot just wide late on , before he was beaten by Iheanacho 's powerful strike from 12 yards .
The second leg at Villa Park takes place on Tuesday , 28 January .
• Reaction to action from the King Power Stadium • Quiz : Name all EFL Cup semi-finalists of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the stands at The King Power Stadium to cast his eye over several players as he finalises his Euro 2020 plans .
Villa defender Tyrone Mings and Leicester pair James Maddison and Ben Chilwell have already won full caps - so Southgate will have been paying particular attention to Jack Grealish , who has been a key figure for Dean Smith 's side this season .
Grealish is yet to make the breakthrough to full England status and his midfield battle with Maddison , who is yet to fully convince Southgate , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And the Villa captain did not disappoint , surely pressing his claims for inclusion in England 's squad and the opportunity to put himself in contention for this summer 's Euros .
Villa spent much of the game on the back foot but Grealish was composed and strong on the ball when he got the chance , always looking for the chance to play the decisive pass on the rare occasions they were able to build pressure .
Maddison is currently ahead of Grealish in Southgate 's pecking order , but this classy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Southgate food for thought as Villa set up a platform to give themselves a real chance of reaching the EFL Cup Final against either Manchester City or Manchester United .
Leicester City were not quite at their fluent best that has taken them into second place in the Premier League , forcing their way between runaway leaders Liverpool and reigning champions Manchester City .
And yet , despite this , the Foxes showed real determination and patience to maintain the pressure until marksman Vardy turned creator with an astute pass that released Iheanacho @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasions when the home crowd , largely supportive , became impatient as Leicester probed but they stayed true to the principles of manager Brendan Rodgers and no-one apart from Villa could complain about their equaliser .
Rodgers would have wanted victory from this home leg but he looked satisfied at the final whistle , clearly believing this is a result Leicester City can work with at Villa Park , where their pace and power on the break - spearheaded by Vardy - may be an even bigger weapon than it was here , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league victory .
'He has really come to the fore ' - reaction Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers : `` Kelechi is a big talent .
He did n't play a lot of football at Manchester City and it takes a bit of time to adapt .
`` But since I 've come in his confidence has grown and grown and we believe in him and believe in his talent and this season he has really come to the fore .
`` He works so hard every day .
He 's either making a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he works so hard in his pressing game .
He was a threat when he came on against Villa and I 'm delighted for him . ''
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith : `` It should be a good second leg , all square and a boisterous crowd , a full house .
`` It was n't the performance I wanted , Leicester were the better team but we defended well at times .
We have to be honest , they created chances as well .
We were loose on the ball tonight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I 'm certainly content with a draw , just not the performance .
We gave away a farcical goal .
Ezri Konsa has got brain dazzled .
A disappointing goal but it sums up some of our performance on the night .
We did get in a lot of tackles and blocks . ''
• Villa have scored 17 League Cup goals this season - their most since 2012-13 , with Villa last scoring more in the 1999-00 campaign ( 18 ) .
• Villa have not kept a clean sheet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their last 17 games , last doing so against Bolton Wanderers in April 2019 .
• Iheanacho has been directly involved in seven goals in his five competitive appearances against Aston Villa ( five goals , two assists ) - more than any other opponent in his professional club career .
• Vardy has provided five assists in his 22 appearances in all competitions this season ; as many as he got for Leicester City in the previous two campaigns ( five assists in 78 apps ) .
• El Ghazi has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competitions for Aston Villa this season ( five goals , six assists ) ; only Grealish has more for the Villans ( 14 ) .
• Guilbert 's goal in the 28th minute was Aston Villa 's only shot on target in the match .
In fact , they only recorded three shots in the entire game - the lowest total they have registered in all competitions since May 2016 against Newcastle United ( two shots ) .
• No player had more shots ( eight ) , shots on target ( two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) than Leicester 's Maddison in this match , with Grealish having zero shots and recording just one key pass by comparison .
Leicester are home to Southampton in the league on Saturday ( 15:00 GMT ) and Villa host Manchester City on Sunday ( 16:30 GMT )

Frederic Guilbert's (right) only other goal for Villa also came in the Carabao Cup - during the 6-1 win at Crewe in August
Kelechi Iheanacho's equaliser gave Leicester City a deserved draw to leave the Carabao Cup semi-final against Aston Villa delicately poised after an entertaining encounter at the King Power Stadium.
Substitute Iheanacho finished emphatically from Jamie Vardy's pass with 16 minutes left to give The Foxes the reward their incessant second-half pressure merited to set up a tense second leg at Villa Park.
Villa, struggling with injuries after goalkeeper Tom Heaton and striker Wesley were ruled out for the season, defended with organisation and resilience to protect the lead given to them after 28 minutes when Frederic Guilbert stole in at the far post to meet Anwar El Ghazi's cross.
Ezri Konsa's header also struck the bar for Villa but Leicester applied most of the pressure with keeper Orjan Nyland saving twice from James Maddison and Vardy, who also shot just wide late on, before he was beaten by Iheanacho's powerful strike from 12 yards.
The second leg at Villa Park takes place on Tuesday, 28 January.
Grealish shines in front of Southgate
Jack Grealish previously played for the Republic of Ireland at youth level before transferring his allegiance to England
England manager Gareth Southgate was in the stands at The King Power Stadium to cast his eye over several players as he finalises his Euro 2020 plans.
Villa defender Tyrone Mings and Leicester pair James Maddison and Ben Chilwell have already won full caps - so Southgate will have been paying particular attention to Jack Grealish, who has been a key figure for Dean Smith's side this season.
Grealish is yet to make the breakthrough to full England status and his midfield battle with Maddison, who is yet to fully convince Southgate, was an intriguing sub-plot to this semi-final.
And the Villa captain did not disappoint, surely pressing his claims for inclusion in England's squad and the opportunity to put himself in contention for this summer's Euros.
Villa spent much of the game on the back foot but Grealish was composed and strong on the ball when he got the chance, always looking for the chance to play the decisive pass on the rare occasions they were able to build pressure.
Maddison is currently ahead of Grealish in Southgate's pecking order, but this classy display from the 24-year-old will have given Southgate food for thought as Villa set up a platform to give themselves a real chance of reaching the EFL Cup Final against either Manchester City or Manchester United.
Leicester's patience rewarded
Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers is unbeaten in his past 31 domestic cup games (W27 D4), although this is his first home draw in this run since September 2015 when manager of Liverpool (1-1 against Carlisle United in the League Cup)
Leicester City were not quite at their fluent best that has taken them into second place in the Premier League, forcing their way between runaway leaders Liverpool and reigning champions Manchester City.
And yet, despite this, the Foxes showed real determination and patience to maintain the pressure until marksman Vardy turned creator with an astute pass that released Iheanacho for his late leveller.
There were occasions when the home crowd, largely supportive, became impatient as Leicester probed but they stayed true to the principles of manager Brendan Rodgers and no-one apart from Villa could complain about their equaliser.
Rodgers would have wanted victory from this home leg but he looked satisfied at the final whistle, clearly believing this is a result Leicester City can work with at Villa Park, where their pace and power on the break - spearheaded by Vardy - may be an even bigger weapon than it was here, as it was in their recent 4-1 league victory.
Man of the match - Jack Grealish (Aston Villa)
Jack Grealish has been a key figure in Villa's team this season and once again underlined his importance to his side
'He has really come to the fore' - reaction
Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers: "Kelechi is a big talent. He didn't play a lot of football at Manchester City and it takes a bit of time to adapt.
"But since I've come in his confidence has grown and grown and we believe in him and believe in his talent and this season he has really come to the fore.
"He works so hard every day. He's either making a goal or scoring a goal now and he works so hard in his pressing game. He was a threat when he came on against Villa and I'm delighted for him."
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith: "It should be a good second leg, all square and a boisterous crowd, a full house.
"It wasn't the performance I wanted, Leicester were the better team but we defended well at times. We have to be honest, they created chances as well. We were loose on the ball tonight, we've got to do better.
"I'm certainly content with a draw, just not the performance. We gave away a farcical goal. Ezri Konsa has got brain dazzled. A disappointing goal but it sums up some of our performance on the night. We did get in a lot of tackles and blocks."
El Ghazi shines for Villa again - stats
Villa have scored 17 League Cup goals this season - their most since 2012-13, with Villa last scoring more in the 1999-00 campaign (18).
Villa have not kept a clean sheet on the road in all competitions in their last 17 games, last doing so against Bolton Wanderers in April 2019.
Iheanacho has been directly involved in seven goals in his five competitive appearances against Aston Villa (five goals, two assists) - more than any other opponent in his professional club career.
Vardy has provided five assists in his 22 appearances in all competitions this season; as many as he got for Leicester City in the previous two campaigns (five assists in 78 apps).
El Ghazi has been directly involved in 11 goals in all competitions for Aston Villa this season (five goals, six assists); only Grealish has more for the Villans (14).
Guilbert's goal in the 28th minute was Aston Villa's only shot on target in the match. In fact, they only recorded three shots in the entire game - the lowest total they have registered in all competitions since May 2016 against Newcastle United (two shots).
No player had more shots (eight), shots on target (two) or created more chances (four) than Leicester's Maddison in this match, with Grealish having zero shots and recording just one key pass by comparison.
What's next?
Leicester are home to Southampton in the league on Saturday (15:00 GMT) and Villa host Manchester City on Sunday (16:30 GMT)


bbcuk--2020-01-08--Commons security staff praised for rescuing man from Thames

The Commons Speaker has hailed the bravery of Parliament 's security team after they saved a man who fell into the River Thames near the building .
Ron Dowson and Habibi Syaaf came to the rescue on Tuesday after the man was found submerged in the freezing water .
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle said the duo , and another man who alerted the officers after seeing the incident on CCTV , should be recognised for their actions .
Mr Syaaf said they were `` not heroes '' and `` did what we were trained for '' .
The incident took place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ north side of the Thames .
Mr Syaaf , a Met Police constable , and Mr Dowson , part of Parliament 's security detail , found the man clinging to the steps and `` struggling to breathe '' .
`` I got down to the last step and urged him to give me his hand , but as I did he lost his grip from a metal mooring ring and started drifting away , '' explained Mr Syaaf , who has only been working in Parliament for two months .
`` I just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pull him back onto the first step ...
The guy was shaking and could not speak .
`` I am just so grateful he survived .
I 'm not a hero - Ron and I just did what we are trained for and what we could do to help . ''
Sir Lindsay also praised the quick thinking of control room operator Dave Thomas .
He spotted the man falling into the water on CCTV and alerted the officers as well as the Police Marine Unit .
`` There 's no doubt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not been for Ron , Habib and Dave Thomas , that man could have drowned , '' he said .
`` We are so lucky to have so many brave security staff looking after us in Parliament but also keeping people in the vicinity safe .
I would like to think their bravery could be recognised . ''

"I got down to the last step and urged him to give me his hand, but as I did he lost his grip from a metal mooring ring and started drifting away," explained Mr Syaaf, who has only been working in Parliament for two months.


bbcuk--2020-01-08--Harry and Meghan step back: What we know so far

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex say they are to step back as `` senior '' royals and divide their time between the UK and North America .
The couple , who have a baby son , Archie , said they plan to carve out a `` progressive new role '' in the Royal Family and intend to `` work to become financially independent '' .
It was reached after many months of reflection and internal discussions , they said .
In October , the public got a glimpse into the couple 's mindset in an ITV documentary filmed during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Sussex admitted adjusting to royal life had been `` hard '' and she had not been prepared for the intensity of the media scrutiny , despite warnings from her British friends that the tabloids could `` destroy '' her life .
Asked whether she was coping , Meghan , a new mother , said : `` I have said for a long time to H - that is what I call him - it 's not enough to just survive something , that 's not the point of life .
You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also described his mental health and the way he deals with the pressures of his life as a matter of `` constant management '' .
Following their decision to step back as senior royals , BBC royal correspondent Jonny Dymond said there were `` great chunks '' of the job that the couple `` simply could not stand '' , while Harry `` hated the cameras and was visibly bored by the ceremonial '' .
Towards the end of last year , Prince Harry said he and Meghan were to take legal action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim it unlawfully published one of her private letters .
The paper stands by its story .
At the time , an unrestrained Harry said : `` I lost my mother and now I watch my wife falling victim to the same powerful forces . ''
Referring to his mother , Diana , Princess of Wales ' sudden death in 1997 , he said : `` I 've seen what happens when someone I love is commoditised to the point that they are no longer treated or seen as a real person .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ back as senior royals What has the rest of the Royal Family said ?
The BBC understands no other royal , including neither the Queen nor the Prince of Wales , was consulted before the unexpected statement was released on Wednesday evening .
A palace spokeswoman told the BBC the Royal Family was `` disappointed '' .
She said discussions with the couple were at an early stage .
`` We understand their desire to take a different approach , but these are complicated issues that will take time to work through , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jonny Dymond said the lack of consultation was likely to sting .
`` This is clearly a major rift between Harry and Meghan on one part , and the rest of the Royal Family on the other , '' he said .
Royal commentator Dickie Arbiter , a former Buckingham Palace press officer , compared the couple 's move to Edward VIII 's abdication in 1936 in order to marry twice-divorced American Wallis Simpson .
`` That is the only other precedent but there 's been nothing like this in modern times , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the statement being posted on the Sussexes ' Instagram account , it had been liked more than 900,000 times .
`` Good for you , '' said many in response , but others were less encouraging .
`` Another Wallis Simpson .
Shows Americans do n't have the fortitude to be royal , '' said one .
TV broadcaster Piers Morgan blamed Meghan for the couple 's split from the Royal Family and the falling-out between Harry and his older brother , Prince William .
Writer and journalist Caitlin Moran said on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their dollar and be free of the miserably undefined job of being royal - what other sane decision could you make , after the last year ? ''
US author and culture critic Mikki Kendall tweeted : `` Harry has been very clear that he did n't want the throne , the titles , none of it .
That was true long before Meghan was on the scene .
`` It 's just that now he 's far enough out of the line of succession to leave , '' she wrote of Harry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the throne after Prince Charles , Prince William and William 's three children .
And Janet Mock , another US writer , welcomed Meghan 's promised return .
What will happen next ?
The couple say they will split their time between the UK and North America and launch a new `` charitable entity '' .
Exactly where and exactly what are both unclear .
Over Christmas , Harry and Meghan took an extended break from royal duties , including time spent in the Canadian province of British Columbia .
And their first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit Canada 's High Commission in central London to thank Canadians in person for the warm welcome they received .
While acting in the US drama Suits , Toronto became an adopted city for Meghan .
It is home to her friends , Jessica and Ben Mulroney , the city 's `` most polished power couple '' , according to Toronto Life magazine .
It 's likely the family would spend time in Meghan 's homeland too - her mother , Doria Ragland , lives in California .
Her father , Thomas Markle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , lives in Mexico .
In terms of their work , the duke 's focus in recent years has been on conservation in Africa and organising the Invictus Games for injured members of the armed forces .
Meghan 's growing portfolio has included the National Theatre and charity Smart Works .
What else have they said ?
The couple have also updated the section of their website which outlines their attitude to the media .
The duke and duchess said they would be adopting a `` revised media approach to ensure diverse and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
Included in this new strategy , Harry and Meghan said they would `` engage with grassroots media organisations and young , up-and-coming journalists '' .
They will also pull out of the so-called royal rota system , where journalists and media representatives are given exclusive passes to cover royal engagements on the understanding they share all the material they gather .
`` The current system predates the dramatic transformation of news reporting in the digital age , '' the couple said in a statement on their website .
Under a heading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is on the media in general , the couple said they believe in a `` free , strong and open media '' which `` upholds accuracy and fosters inclusivity , diversity and tolerance '' .
`` Their Royal Highnesses recognise that their roles as members of the Royal Family are subject to interest , and they welcome accurate and honest media reporting as well as being held to account if appropriate .
Equally , like every member of society , they also value privacy as individuals and as a family . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media , including their Instagram account which has 10.1m followers , to `` personally share moments in their lives directly with members of the public '' .

Harry and Meghan: What do we know so far and what will happen next? Published 20 January 2020
Image source, Getty Images
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are stepping back from royal duties and will divide their time between the UK and North America, Buckingham Palace has announced.
They will no longer use their HRH titles and will stop receiving public funds for royal duties under the "new arrangement".
The couple, who have a baby son, Archie, had previously said they planned to carve out a "progressive new role" in the Royal Family and intended to "work to become financially independent".
What might the 'next chapter' look like?
Following the announcement from the Queen, a separate statement from Buckingham Palace said the couple were grateful to the monarch and the Royal Family for their support as they "embark on the next chapter of their lives".
It said they understood they are "required to step back from royal duties, including official military appointments".
The couple will continue to maintain their private patronages and associations "with the Queen's blessing", the statement said.
Prince Harry and Meghan said previously they plan to launch a new "charitable entity".
Exactly where and exactly what are unclear as the couple have not yet elaborated on how they see their new role.
However, their new charity is expected to be global in reach, with some of the focus likely to be on the US and Africa.
On the pair's first official overseas tour last year with their son, Archie, the Duchess of Sussex told teenage girls in a deprived part of South Africa that she was with them "as a woman of colour and as your sister".
Prince Harry has spoken of his personal love for Africa, describing the continent as a place "where I feel more like myself than anywhere else in the world".
The couple's charity work is also likely to have a commitment to female empowerment, an issue on which Meghan has publicly pledged to "shine a light".
How will they fund their new life?
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not receive public funds for royal duties.
They have said their ambition is to "work to become financially independent".
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, "Nothing like this has ever happened before" – royal correspondent Daniela Relph explains
David McClure, author of a book on how royals have made and spent their wealth, said they already have their own money and could make more from TV in future.
Meghan was reportedly paid $50,000 (£38,400) per episode of the TV show Suits. While she is no longer a working actress she will receive some payments whenever the show is rebroadcast.
Currently, the duke and duchess's expenses - such as living costs, travel, clothing - are covered by Harry's father for their role as working royals, representing the Queen.
The Prince of Wales funds his sons and their families with income from the Duchy of Cornwall.
Historian and royal author Hugo Vickers previously told the BBC he was unconvinced by the couple's plans.
He said: "They think they can do all sorts of things together but the fact is that they're very likely, if they're not careful, to end up as slightly tarnished celebrities, perhaps".
Where will they be based?
They plan to divide their time between the UK and North America, but BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell said: "It is expected that they will spend the majority of their time in North America now."
They only moved into their new home - Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, Berkshire - last April ahead of the birth of their son. The estimated cost to the taxpayer of renovations to it is about £2.4m.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement the couple have "shared their wish to repay Sovereign Grant expenditure" for the refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage.
It will remain their UK family home, the palace added.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Ben and Jessica Mulroney, pictured in 2009
Harry and Meghan took an extended break from royal duties over Christmas, including time spent in the Canadian province of British Columbia.
While acting in the US drama Suits, Toronto became an adopted city for Meghan. It is home to her friends, Jessica and Ben Mulroney, the city's "most polished power couple", according to Toronto Life magazine.
It is likely that the family would spend time in Meghan's US homeland too - her mother, Doria Ragland, lives in California.
Her father, Thomas Markle, with whom Meghan has little contact, lives in Mexico.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, lives in California
What's behind the decision?
Many months of reflection and internal discussions, they said.
In October, the public got a glimpse into the couple's mindset in an ITV documentary filmed during a tour of Africa.
The Duchess of Sussex admitted adjusting to royal life had been "hard" and she had not been prepared for the intensity of the media scrutiny, despite warnings from her British friends that the tabloids could "destroy" her life.
Asked whether she was coping, Meghan, a new mother, said: "I have said for a long time to H - that is what I call him - it's not enough to just survive something, that's not the point of life. You have got to thrive."
Prince Harry also described his mental health and the way he deals with the pressures of his life as a matter of "constant management".
Following their decision to step back as senior royals, BBC royal correspondent Jonny Dymond said there were "great chunks" of the job that the couple "simply could not stand", while Harry "hated the cameras and was visibly bored by the ceremonial".
Towards the end of last year, Prince Harry said he and Meghan were to take legal action against the Mail on Sunday over a claim it unlawfully published one of her private letters. The paper stands by its story.
At the time, an unrestrained Harry said: "I lost my mother and now I watch my wife falling victim to the same powerful forces."
Referring to his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales' sudden death in 1997, he said: "I've seen what happens when someone I love is commoditised to the point that they are no longer treated or seen as a real person."
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Meghan spoke to ITV as part of a documentary last year
What else have they said?
Speaking at an event on Sunday evening, Prince Harry said he is "taking a leap of faith" in stepping back from being a senior royal, adding that "there really was no other option".
The duke insisted he and Meghan had hoped to continue serving the Queen, but without public funding. "Unfortunately, that wasn't possible," he said.
In his speech, posted on the couple's Instagram account, Prince Harry also spoke of his "great sadness" over his and Meghan's new relationship with the Royal Family.
"The decision that I have made for my wife and I to step back is not one I made lightly," he said.
The BBC's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond said there were "two big messages" to take from the speech: including Harry stressing that the move was his call; and that the prince wanted to continue in some sort of royal role.
Following the announcement from the Queen that the couple were stepping back from royal duties and can no longer formally represent the Queen, Buckingham Palace said the Sussexes have made clear that everything they do will "continue to uphold the values of Her Majesty".
While no details have been given about security arrangements for the couple, the statement said "there are well-established and independent processes to determine the need for publicly-funded security".
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The Royal Family faces intense media scrutiny
Harry and Meghan had also updated the section of their website which outlines their attitude to the media.
The duke and duchess said they would be adopting a "revised media approach to ensure diverse and open access of their work" in 2020.
Included in this new strategy, Harry and Meghan said they would "engage with grassroots media organisations and young, up-and-coming journalists".
They will also pull out of the so-called royal rota system, where journalists and media representatives are given exclusive passes to cover royal engagements on the understanding they share all the material they gather.
"The current system predates the dramatic transformation of news reporting in the digital age," the couple said in a statement on their website.
Under a heading asking what Harry and Meghan's stance is on the media in general, the couple said they believe in a "free, strong and open media" which "upholds accuracy and fosters inclusivity, diversity and tolerance".
"Their Royal Highnesses recognise that their roles as members of the Royal Family are subject to interest, and they welcome accurate and honest media reporting as well as being held to account if appropriate. Equally, like every member of society, they also value privacy as individuals and as a family."


bbcuk--2020-01-08--In Pictures: Harry and Meghan's life together

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have announced they are to `` step back '' as senior members of the Royal Family .
Prince Harry and Meghan say they will now divide their time between the UK and North America and aim to become `` financially independent '' .
In 2016 , Kensington Palace released a statement confirming Harry had been dating US actress Meghan Markle `` for a few months '' .
They were pictured in public for the first time in Toronto , attending a wheelchair tennis match during the 2017 Invictus Games .
They announced their engagement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together .
Meghan told BBC News that Harry 's proposal was `` just an amazing surprise , it was so sweet and natural and very romantic '' .
In February 2018 the couple took part in their first joint engagement with Prince Harry 's brother and sister-in-law , the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge .
As Meghan joined their Royal Foundation charity , Harry joked the foursome were now `` stuck together '' .
That autumn , Kensington Palace revealed the duchess was pregnant and the couple 's baby was due in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they embarked on their first official overseas tour , visiting Australia , New Zealand , Fiji and Tonga .
On 6 May , 2019 , Meghan gave birth to a boy , Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor , who became seventh in line to the throne .
Harry told reporters : `` It 's been the most amazing experience I could ever possibly imagine '' .
In June 2019 , the couple announced they were splitting from the charity they shared with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to set up their own foundation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding his son while on an extended stay in Canada was released by the couple as part of an Instagram compilation summing up their year .

Image caption,
They announced their engagement a few weeks after being first pictured together. Meghan told BBC News that Harry's proposal was "just an amazing surprise, it was so sweet and natural and very romantic".


bbcuk--2020-01-08--What British Iranians think about the rising tension

`` I will probably never see my grandparents again . ''
Kim , 27 , is a British Iranian living in the UK .
Her parents came to the UK in their 20s , but she still has a lot of family still living there .
The escalating tensions between Iran and the US have been causing Kim a lot of concern for her family .
With the American assassination of top Iranian military commander General Qasem Soleimani and Iran 's retaliation missile strike on a US military base - relations between the two countries are on a knife edge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are concerned by what is happening in a country they consider to be a homeland .
Radio 1 Newsbeat has been finding out what they feel about the situation .
`` It 's close to my heart and I 'm worried about the family .
We 're all worried about them , their safety , their future , '' Kim tells Newsbeat .
`` I do n't think it 's safe for any British dual national to go to Iran at the moment .
I would n't feel comfortable if my parents went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finance student raised in Tehran , studying in the UK .
He agrees with Kim that the current situation is scary for Iranians outside Iran .
Parsa says his sister was in Iran when General Soleimani was assassinated , and he told her to return to the UK for her safety .
`` Many of my friends at university had plans to go back to Iran after exams finish .
But they 've cancelled because they 're too frightened about what 's going to happen , and fears over airstrikes and attacks in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ # WWIII : Why are these words trending ?
• The US , Iran and Qasem Soleimani story explained in 400 words He also says there 's been an impact on Iranian students who are relying on money from back home .
`` Iranian currency has been hit .
So students who are receiving funds from their parents are facing financial difficulties because the money has lower value . ''
`` So there 's a lot of uncertainty for those of us outside the country too . ''
Parsa , 21 , stayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returning regularly to visit his family .
He says General Soleimani and Iranian forces have been fighting IS and protecting Iran from terrorist attacks .
`` So if there 's going to be attacks and we have weak borders , I 'm frightened . ''
Kim blames the decision by President Trump to kill General Soleimani for sparking more dangerous times in the region .
`` I 'm not a Soleimani sympathiser or supporter at all .
But that act has made the world a much more dangerous place .
So you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are going to suffer the consequences of his careless actions . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said today that the General had `` the blood of British troops on his hands '' .
After Iran 's response , some such as 23-year-old Ali Reza Shahrestani are worried about the effect on the country 's economy .
Ali is an entrepreneur working with businesses in the UK and Iran .
`` Nobody wants to invest in areas where there 's war .
It 's too risky .
So you need to have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business , people are looking elsewhere . ''
He says the internet blackouts in Iran create uncertainty .
`` It happens a lot ... sometimes 12 days in a row .
So there are threats to businesses because they work with tech and there 's such a reliance on the internet now . ''
`` If people stop investing in the country , jobs are at risk . ''
Parsa agrees : `` What will happen to the many young Iranians who are educated , have startups , and want a better relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's happening , they can not have that .
They ca n't progress . ''
Kim says being Iranian in the West , particularly in a time of tension , means people sometimes look at her differently .
`` It 's because of the perception of the Middle East .
People have joked before 'oh you must be a bomber ' when they 've found out I 'm Iranian . ''
And Ali has faced something similar in business .
`` I have problems in meetings with investors simply because I am Iranian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a British passport , I am criticised because of my origin . ''
Ali says that the current tensions between Iran and the US have created unity amongst Iranians .
`` Even if people are against the regime and did n't like the general , when someone attacks us , everyone in Iran tries to unite and come together .
And you can see that on the streets . ''
He 's not surprised by Iran 's response because `` they 'll always protect '' Iranians .
Some commentators think Iran 's retaliatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in tensions .
And Parsa , Kim and Ali all want the same thing .
`` We were taking steps forward before Trump was elected , I hope we can return to that .
But it 's just so hard to know what 's going to happen , '' says Kim .
Parsa adds : `` Iran and the US have n't had peace for a long time .
So assuming there 's not going to be any tension is unrealistic .
`` But I 'm hoping we can see stability in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That would be good for everyone . ''
Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen back here .

"I'm not a Soleimani sympathiser or supporter at all. But that act has made the world a much more dangerous place. So you have to also think about the innocent people that are going to suffer the consequences of his careless actions."


bbcuk--2020-01-08--Meghan and Harry step back: What does this mean for the Royal Family?

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are stepping back from their royal duties , but why ?
And what does @ @ @ @ @ of the Royal Family ?
The BBC 's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond reveals what his @ @ @ @ @ Read more : Harry and Meghan to step back as senior royals

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are stepping back from their royal duties, but why? And what does this mean for the future of the Royal Family?
The BBC's royal correspondent Jonny Dymond reveals what his sources have told him.
Read more: Harry and Meghan to step back as senior royals


bbcuk--2020-01-08--PMQs: Corbyn and Johnson on Iran strikes

Boris Johnson said the UK was working closely with allies to de-escalate violence and was working to protect the UK @ @ @ @ @ East .
The prime minister told Jeremy Corbyn the UK had relocated `` non-essential personnel @ @ @ @ @ Politics Live in full for 30 days from transmission ( UK only )

Boris Johnson said the UK was working closely with allies to de-escalate violence and was working to protect the UK's interests in the Middle East.
The prime minister told Jeremy Corbyn the UK had relocated "non-essential personnel" from Baghdad.
Watch Politics Live in full for 30 days from transmission (UK only)


bbcuk--2020-01-08--New MPs attend Prime Minister's Questions for first time

The first Prime Minister 's Questions of the new parliament has taken place .
It 's one of the main @ @ @ @ @ , and two newly-elected MPs described their experiences .

The first Prime Minister's Questions of the new parliament has taken place.
It's one of the main events of the parliamentary week, and two newly-elected MPs described their experiences.


bbcuk--2020-01-08--Northampton jewellers raid: CCTV shows jailed pair in action

Video from CCTV and passers-by captured the moment masked men raided a jewellers ' shop in a busy town centre @ @ @ @ @ into Michael Jones jewellers in Northampton , four men armed with hammers , axes and @ @ @ @ @ and a fifth threatened people at the entrance .
They escaped with a £124,000 haul @ @ @ @ @ being driven along the pavement as people jumped out of its way .
Det Con @ @ @ @ @ It was a very brazen attack and absolutely terrifying for the staff and the customers @ @ @ @ @ son from Birmingham have been jailed .

Video from CCTV and passers-by captured the moment masked men raided a jewellers' shop in a busy town centre.
A car was driven into Michael Jones jewellers in Northampton, four men armed with hammers, axes and a machete went inside, and a fifth threatened people at the entrance.
They escaped with a £124,000 haul and footage showed the car being driven along the pavement as people jumped out of its way.
Det Con Dave Scarth said: "It was a very brazen attack and absolutely terrifying for the staff and the customers."
A father and son from Birmingham have been jailed.


bbcuk--2020-01-08--The Papers: 'Bombshell' after Harry and Meghan 'quit'

The Times says the Queen was understood to be very disappointed that the couple rushed to put out the `` @ @ @ @ @ paper says it is the second blow to the Royal Family in as many months @ @ @ @ @ stepped down from his public role after a `` disastrous '' Newsnight interview over his @ @ @ @ @ offender Jeffrey Epstein .

For the Washington Post, it's a "bold and remarkable" move, signalling that two of the younger, more popular royals may be fed up with what it calls "an anachronistic, cosseted life of endless ribbon-cutting and fusty, scripted engagements - and the scrutiny that comes with all of that".


bbcuk--2020-01-09--'Life is hell' for transgender people on NHS waiting list

More than 13,500 transgender and non-binary adults are on waiting lists for NHS gender identity clinics in England .
Some people have had to wait three years for their first appointment at a clinic , BBC research has found .
The system has been described as `` broken '' by an ex-soldier who has been waiting to see a consultant since 2016 .
There has been a 40 % increase in referrals over the past four years and NHS England said it had increased investment amid rising demand .
NHS England has pledged to bring waiting times to below 18 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first appointment at a gender identity clinic is 18 months , according to national charity LGBT Foundation .
Andrea Halliley , 51 , went on tours to Northern Ireland , Bosnia and Iraq before retiring from the army in 2014 .
She went to her GP in September 2016 and was referred to the NHS gender identity service in Leeds , having a telephone assessment in July 2017 and an appointment with a psychiatric nurse in December the following year .
Ms Halliley is currently waiting for an assessment with a consultant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or March 2020 at the earliest .
She said : `` Life is pretty much hell - you are living everyday a battle within yourself no matter what 's going on outside .
`` Inside yourself there 's a war raging between who you are presenting yourself and who you really are .
`` The longer and longer it 's dragged out you 're made to feel marginalised and you 're made to feel that you 're not important . ''
Gender identity clinics offer assessment and support to people aged 18 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in which a person experiences discomfort or distress because there is a mismatch between their biological sex and gender identity .
They offer services on the NHS including hormone treatment , facial hair removal , genital hair removal prior to surgery , voice coaching , speech and language therapy and psychological support .
There are seven NHS gender identity clinics for adults in England , located in Sheffield , London , Nottingham , Northumberland , Devon , Northamptonshire and Leeds .
All of the clinics provided the BBC with data on referrals over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC using figures detailed in board minutes .
Emma Meehan , assistant director of public affairs at the LGBT Foundation , said : `` We are disappointed , but unfortunately not surprised , to hear of these findings .
`` Currently the NHS is falling drastically short when it comes to supporting trans and non-binary people .
`` NHS Guidelines say 18 weeks is the limit from referral to treatment .
In reality the average waiting time for a first appointment with a gender identity clinic is 18 months . ''
An NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gender identity services continues to rise as more people feel able to come forward for support and treatment , and we 've increased investment to respond to the rising demand , with staff working hard to reduce waiting times for patients and support people who are on waiting list . ''
If you or someone you know has been affected by a gender identity issue , help and support is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .
Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news @ bbc.co.uk .

An NHS England spokesperson said: "Demand for gender identity services continues to rise as more people feel able to come forward for support and treatment, and we've increased investment to respond to the rising demand, with staff working hard to reduce waiting times for patients and support people who are on waiting list."


bbcuk--2020-01-08--New powers to crack down on Airbnb-style lets in Scotland

Councils are to be given new powers to tackle problems caused by the rapid growth of Airbnb-style holiday lets in many areas of Scotland .
The Scottish government said councils will be able to introduce licensing schemes for short-term lets from 2021 .
These will allow local authorities to establish designated areas where planning permission is needed before properties can be rented out .
The scheme will also set safety requirements for all short-term lets .
And councils will be allowed to include further conditions to help tackle littering or overcrowding of properties .
The government also said it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the future to ensure they make an `` appropriate contribution to local communities and support local services '' .
The scheme would work alongside the government 's plans to give councils the ability to introduce a so-called tourist tax in the future .
• Look back on the statement to Holyrood • What Airbnb really does to a neighbourhood The move is in response to concerns from residents in some popular tourist destinations - particularly Edinburgh during the Festival - that the growth of short-term lets is pushing up rent levels for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the amount of litter , noise and anti-social behaviour .
Research commissioned by the Scottish government found a three-fold increase in Scottish properties let for short-term use since 2016 , with 32,000 recorded in May of last year .
More than 2,700 listings were recorded in Edinburgh , with the city 's Old Town area found to have 812 active Airbnb listings per square kilometre - while on Skye , holiday lets accounted for nearly 20 % of all homes on the island .
A majority of the more than 1,000 respondents to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backed the introduction of reforms , but they were divided over what should be done .
Local government minister Kevin Stewart told the Scottish Parliament that short-term lets can offer people a flexible travel option and have `` contributed positively to Scotland 's tourism industry and local economies across the country '' .
He added : `` However , we know that in certain areas , particularly tourist hot spots , high numbers of short-term lets are causing problems and often make it harder for people to find homes to live in .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ local authorities to implement a system that works for their area . ''
What has the reaction been ?
The announcement was welcomed by Adam McVey , leader of the City of Edinburgh Council , who said it would give the local authority the control it needs over short-term lets .
He added : `` It meets our request for mandatory licences and we will now be in a position to more effectively implement planning controls to stop this increase .
`` A review of taxation in this area will also make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 're receiving and local services they 're using . ''
Scottish Greens MSP Andy Wightman , who has been campaigning for the rules around holiday lets to change , said the announcement was long overdue , but would be welcomed by communities that have been adversely affected by short-term lets .
He added : `` It 's clear that no licenses should be issued unless proper planning consent is in place , and I am disappointed that the Scottish government do n't seem to share that view . ''
The Scottish Conservatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but said the government had given `` next to no details on how this might work '' .
Airbnb said it had yet to see the details of the Scottish government 's announcement , but would be seeking clarity on areas including the financial cost of licensing and how taxation of short-term lets would operate alongside existing proposals for tourism taxation .
A spokesman said : `` We have long supported calls for fair regulations and a tourism tax in Scotland .
Now we want to work with the Scottish government and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for hosts .
`` Together we can help Scottish families share their homes and follow the rules , and avoid a system that excludes working families through fees , barriers and bureaucracy .
Our platform is an economic lifeline for countless local families and travel on Airbnb boosts the Scottish economy by almost £2m a day . ''

The move is in response to concerns from residents in some popular tourist destinations - particularly Edinburgh during the Festival - that the growth of short-term lets is pushing up rent levels for other properties, as well as increasing the amount of litter, noise and anti-social behaviour.


bbcuk--2020-01-08--Christmas Day crash: Darran Fellowes killed 'helping son'

A father-of-two killed on Christmas Day was hit by a car while helping his son who had broken down on a busy main road , an inquest has heard .
Darran Peter Fellowes , 48 , was walking northbound along the A465 near Neath when a black Toyota Aygo hit a red VW Beetle and Mr Fellowes at 17:00 GMT .
The married `` loving family man '' from Neath Port Talbot died at the scene , the inquest in Swansea heard .
A 35-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the crash .
`` Mr Fellowes attended to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down near the Aberdulais slip road of the A465 - the location of the incident , '' PC Alun Efstathiou told the inquest .
The DIY and carpentry enthusiast from Skewen , who had been married to Donna for 20 years , was treated by emergency services but died at the scene .
His family said Mr Fellowes , a maintenance manager at a forecourts and construction firm , enjoyed helping his two sons , Thomas and Jack , with their cars .
`` He lived life to the full and will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a statement .
South Wales Police said the woman was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released under investigation .
The inquest was adjourned for six months for the police to investigate .
Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage leading up to the incident .

"Mr Fellowes attended to assist his son, who had broken down near the Aberdulais slip road of the A465 - the location of the incident," PC Alun Efstathiou told the inquest.


bbcuk--2020-01-09--White House Farm: Victim's husband hopes drama draws line under murders

The former brother-in-law of murderer Jeremy Bamber is hoping that a TV dramatisation of the killings 35 years ago would help `` draw a line under it '' .
Colin Caffell 's ex-wife Sheila and their twin sons were shot by her brother who then staged the scene to look like a murder-suicide .
Bamber , now 58 , also shot his parents June and Nevill but has always maintained his innocence .
ITV 's White House Farm dramatises the events in Tolleshunt D'Arcy , in Essex .
Bamber , who is serving a whole life term for the murders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1986 .
Since then he has made several appeals , all of which have been rejected .
Bamber tried to convince Essex Police his sister , who suffered from mental illness , had killed her parents and six-year-old children before turning the gun on herself on the night of 6 August 1985 , his trial heard .
Mr Caffell said working as a consultant on the production had dragged up emotions but he had found it cathartic and hoped the show would bring an end to the story .
`` I am hoping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under it , '' he said .
`` After the trial it was left to me to clear Sheila 's name and repair her reputation and the show ends with my character talking to the press saying that she was n't everything they had portrayed her as . ''
He said he had turned down previous offers to work with people wanting to put the killings on screen but believed the writers of White House Farm were different .
`` There is not the gratuitous violence you usually get in these true crime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think , '' he said .
Mr Caffell , who is republishing his memoir of the events In Search of the Rainbow 's End , said he had never doubted his ex-wife 's innocence .
At the time she was heavily medicated and he said she `` could n't pour baked beans on to toast from a saucepan , let alone fire a rifle '' .
Bamber 's legal team requested ITV postponed the screening of the show until another stage of legal proceedings had been heard , fearing the series would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public domain '' .
Thousands of people have signed petitions calling for the release of documents in the case , which some believe will prove his innocence , with claims made that information was suppressed during the original trial and subsequent appeals .
• How I got inside the mind of a murderer Essex Police said appeals and reviews had `` never found anything to suggest that Bamber was wrongly convicted of these murders 35 years ago '' .
Mr Caffell said he had no doubt of Bamber 's guilt despite mistakes made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the killer down to his `` charisma '' .

"After the trial it was left to me to clear Sheila's name and repair her reputation and the show ends with my character talking to the press saying that she wasn't everything they had portrayed her as."


bbcuk--2020-01-09--Prince Harry and Meghan: Royal Family 'hurt' as couple begin 'next chapter'

The Royal Family are said to be `` hurt '' at the Duke and Duchess of Sussex 's announcement they will step back as senior royals .
Prince Harry and Meghan did not consult any senior royal about making the statement , it is understood .
Buckingham Palace was `` blindsided '' , said BBC royal correspondent Jonny Dymond , as talks about their future had begun but were in very early stages .
The Palace said there were `` complicated issues '' to work through .
• Harry and Meghan to step back as senior royals • What do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pictures : Harry and Meghan 's life together In their statement on Wednesday , Harry and Meghan said they made the decision `` after many months of reflection and internal discussions '' .
They said they intend `` to step back as 'senior ' members of the Royal Family , and work to become financially independent '' .
They plan to split their time between the UK and North America , while `` continuing to honour our duty to the Queen , the Commonwealth , and our patronages '' .
`` This geographic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born , while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter , '' the couple said .
Despite the couple 's decision , Harry will still remain sixth-in-line to the throne .
The pair was already preparing to launch their own Sussex Royal charity , which they set up after splitting from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge 's foundation in June last year .
The Sussexes ' new charity is expected to be global , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than domestic - and will have a commitment to female empowerment .
Meghan , of course , is American herself and has a particularly close relationship with her mother who lives in California .
But the Sun , which broke the story on Wednesday , was firm in its speculation that Canada was their likely destination .
The couple have just returned after a six-week break from royal duties , which they spent in Canada with their eight-month-old son , Archie .
After returning to the UK on Tuesday , Harry , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visited Canada 's High Commission in London to thank the country for hosting them and said the warmth and hospitality they received was `` unbelievable '' .
Former actress Meghan lived and worked in Toronto for seven years during her time starring in the popular US legal drama Suits .
She has previously spoken about adopting the city as her second home after her native Los Angeles , and she she has several Canadian friends .
The couple 's announcement raises numerous questions over what their future royal roles will entail .
How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In stepping back as senior royals , Harry and Meghan have announced they will no longer receive funding from the Sovereign Grant .
The couple said this will make them `` members of the Royal Family with financial independence . ''
The Sovereign Grant is public money which pays for the cost of official royal duties , in exchange for the surrender by the Queen of the revenue from the Crown Estate .
The Queen 's Sovereign Grant from the Treasury was £82m in 2018-19 .
The couple said the Sovereign Grant paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 2019 , with the remaining 95 % being funded by Prince Charles through his income from the Duchy of Cornwall .
Under current rules , the pair said they are `` prohibited from earning income in any form '' , but in their new roles could follow other title-holding royals in having full-time jobs .
The costs of official overseas visits will be funded by the Sovereign Grant and contributions from the host country `` when appropriate '' .
The couple are classified as `` internationally protected people '' , which means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Metropolitan Police .
They will retain Frogmore cottage , the Grade-2 listed property in Windsor that cost taxpayers £2.4m to renovate , as their official residence so they have a `` place to call home '' in the UK .
What do commentators say ?
Royal historian Prof Kate Williams said it will be `` difficult '' for Harry and Meghan to lead `` normal '' lives , as media interest in them will increase after their `` unprecedented '' move .
She told BBC Breakfast : `` Harry and Meghan are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ due to her former acting career ] '' as was Harry , who will become even `` more significant '' when his father - and later his brother - becomes king .
`` He is always going to be very close to the royal fold .
It is going to be difficult if Harry and Meghan are going to live in Canada for a certain period of time and try and get on with business and be normal , charitable CEOs .
`` They will require security because I do n't see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I see it as probably increasing , because what they 're doing is so unprecedented for royals . ''
She said the Metropolitan Police or Foreign Office would pay for their security on royal business , but their security in Canada could be funded by their global charitable foundation .
Royal commentator Penny Junor said the couple 's actions were reminiscent of those of Harry 's mother , Diana , Princess of Wales .
The suggestion that they had not consulted other royals before making their statement was `` beyond bizarre '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Diana when she suddenly announced after her separation [ from Charles ] that she was stepping back from 50 of her charities without consulting anybody .
`` The problem is that they are not working for themselves , they are working for a family firm and to be making announcements of this sort without consulting is beyond bizarre . ''
Graham Smith , a spokesman for Republic , which campaigns for an elected head of state , said Harry and Meghan 's decision `` raises questions about the monarchy 's future '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the couple 's extra security and overseas lifestyle will be funded .
Mr Smith questioned why they were announcing they were working towards being financially independent , saying : `` To suggest that they 're not already financially independent is incredibly crass and belies a sense of self-entitlement and a lack of self-awareness that is common among royals . ''
He added : `` This really is wanting to have your cake and eat it .
They have said they will dip in and out of royal duties as it suits them but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they find other sources of income . ''
This is clearly a major rift between Harry and Meghan on one part , and the rest of the Royal Family on the other .
There are far more questions than answers ; what will their new role be ?
Where will they live , and who will pay for it ?
What relationship will they have with the rest of the Royal Family ?
And there 's the institutional question .
What does this mean for the Royal Family ?
It comes just months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duties after a BBC interview about his ties to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein .
Some might see this as the slimmed-down monarchy that the 21st Century needs .
But Harry and Meghan reached people that other royals did n't .
They were part of the reinvention and refreshing of the institution .
We 're now in wait-and-see mode as to whether this new model of being a royal can work - or if this is really a staging post for them to leave the Royal Family .
Signs the couple were unhappy with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some months .
In October last year , the Duchess of Sussex began legal action against the Mail on Sunday over a claim that it unlawfully published one of her private letters .
The paper stands by its story .
At the time , Prince Harry said his wife had `` become one of the latest victims of a British tabloid press '' after a `` ruthless campaign '' of `` relentless propaganda '' .
`` Though we have continued to put on a brave face ...
I can not begin to describe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
In an ITV documentary last year , Meghan , who was born in the US , described motherhood as a `` struggle '' due to intense interest from newspapers .
`` Not many people have asked if I 'm OK , '' she said .
On Wednesday the royal couple announced they would be adopting a `` revised media approach '' from the spring .
As part of the new strategy , published on their website , they will `` engage with grassroots media organisations and young , up-and-coming journalists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the so-called royal rota system , where journalists and media representatives are given exclusive access to cover royal engagements on the understanding they share the material they gather .
`` The current system predates the dramatic transformation of news reporting in the digital age , '' the couple said .
Harry is sixth in line to the throne - behind Prince Charles , Prince William and his three children .
Do you have any questions about Prince Harry and Meghan 's decision to step back as senior royals ?
In some cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you state otherwise .
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Speaking to Emma Barnett on BBC 5 Live, she said: "Here is a man who every day has to live out the trauma that he experienced as a little boy when he had to walk behind her coffin at the age of 12 in front of the world, and I think if any of us were put in that situation we would find it incredibly triggering."


bbcuk--2020-01-09--'Misery' for A&E patients facing record-long waits

Huge pressures at hospitals across the NHS over the last month have led to long delays for patients seeking emergency care , figures suggest .
The NHS England December data showed record delays in A & E with one in five patients waiting more than four hours .
A key problem seems to have been a shortage of beds on wards .
The figures show nearly 100,000 of the sickest patients faced hours stuck on trolleys and waiting in corridors while beds were found for them .
Some hospitals were even forced to introduce emergency protocols and turn away walk-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while many have postponed routine operations to fee up space .
Royal College of Emergency Medicine president Dr Katherine Henderson said : `` The NHS is struggling to escape its spiral of decline .
`` This will have been a miserable Christmas period for many patients and staff alike . ''
• 11 charts on the challenges facing the NHS Mark Newton 's 83-year-old father-in-law , George Bufton , was taken to a hospital in the Midlands in the first week of January .
He had a chest infection and a suspected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just over a month after he 'd had a major bowel cancer operation .
He spent 25 hours waiting for a bed to be found .
Mr Newton said he was `` gobsmacked '' by what he saw .
At one point around 20 trolleys were stuck waiting in the corridor , with queues of ambulances outside A & E .
He said staff were doing an `` admirable '' job in the circumstances , but there was just not enough money or staff to cope .
`` It was utter mayhem .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be done about it , '' Mr Newton said .
How bad has it been ?
December was certainly the worst month since the four-hour target was introduced in 2004 .
Just 79.8 % of patients spent less than four hours in A & E - well below the 95 % target .
Three trusts - Norfolk and Norwich , Stockport and Hull - all saw performance drop below 60 % , while a group of Midlands trusts - Shrewsbury and Telford , Leicester , Birmingham and United Lincolnshire - were all in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been getting gradually worse over the autumn - October and November saw record worst levels set as well .
But the problems in emergency care has not just been confined to A & E waits .
The number of patients who then needed to be admitted on to the ward and faced long delays also hit a new worst level .
There were 98,500 patients who faced a so-called `` trolley wait '' of a further four hours .
That is nearly one in four of the patients who needed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be in corridors or temporary waiting areas , either in A & E or just outside .
Patients who are admitted are often the sickest of those who attend A & E .
But it is not just A & E units that are struggling .
The waiting time targets for cancer treatment and routine operations , such as knee and hip replacements have also been missed .
What is the cause of the pressures ?
Hospital bosses acknowledged it had been one of the most difficult months they had seen - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government has put in this year , which saw the NHS budget grow by 3.5 % .
There are a variety of reasons behind the problems .
Prof Joe Harrison , chief executive of Milton Keynes Hospital , said his staff had been seeing some very sick patients .
He said it had mainly been a combination of older patients and children , who seemed to have been particularly hard hit by flu and respiratory problems .
Although the figures also show that the number of beds that have had to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has risen by more than 60 % compared to last year with 760 beds closed on average each day last month - that is closed to 1 % of the bed supply lost .
Prof Harrison also said the social care system in the community , which hospitals rely on to discharge patients into , seemed to have been struggling more than it was last year .
`` Keeping people safe has been our main priority .
There is significant pressure , not just in this hospital , but across the NHS system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Richard Murray , from the King 's Fund think tank , said he believed there were too few beds in the system .
'Hospital bed numbers have fallen significantly over the past decade .
With hospitals running full to capacity and patients waiting an unacceptably long time for the urgent care they need , it is clear that bed reductions have gone too far . ''
The extreme measures being taken Ambulance crews have been reporting severe pressures , with the number of hours lost queuing outside A & E units waiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
One in six crews had to wait longer than 30 minutes - the target is 15 .
A number of ambulance trusts have taken paramedics off ambulances and deployed them to manage the queues in attempts to keep delays to a minimum .
There have been reports of some hospitals ordering staff not to talk to journalists about the mounting pressures .
Routine operations have been cancelled in many places in an attempt to relieve the pressure on wards .
In the most under-pressure hospitals , emergency protocols have seen A & @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so they can focus on patients brought in by ambulances .
There were more than 120 cases of this happening last month - with some hospitals instigating the measure , known as an A & E divert , multiple times .
And in the West Midlands , ambulance bosses have ordered crews to avoid taking care home residents in Worcestershire and Shropshire to local hospitals unless it is an absolute emergency because of the `` extreme difficulties '' being experienced .
The picture across the rest of the UK The difficulties have not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ none of the three core targets covering A & E , routine operations or cancer are being met in the other three nations .
In recent days , the Hywel Dda health board , which is in charge of services in west Wales , said it had had to cancel planned surgery at a number of local hospitals because of the `` challenging '' situation .
The British Medical Association said services across the nation had been stretched , with some reports cancer surgery had had to be cancelled too .
The four-hour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released by the Welsh government until later in the month .
Scotland 's figures are not available yet for the festive period either although November was one of the worst months on record .
Meanwhile , in Northern Ireland , which has the worst record when it comes to A & E delays , there is concern that on-going strikes by nurses will have exacerbated the winter pressures .
While A & E departments have remained running during the strikes , the second round of which took place this week , there have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discharge patients quickly enough .
This has a knock-on effect of causing delays admitting patients .
According to the latest figures , which date back to September , a third of patients were waiting longer than four hours in A & E , which was twice as bad as the situation in England and Scotland during that month .
Have you experienced long waits in A & E or had your surgery cancelled ?
Share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
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'Misery' for A&E patients facing record-long waits Published 9 January 2020
Image source, PA Media
Patients needing emergency care have faced a "miserable" time, doctors say, as data shows record-long delays in England in the past month.
Hospitals reported huge pressures in December, with one in five A&E patients waiting over four hours.
A key problem seems to have been a shortage of beds on wards.
Nearly 100,000 of the sickest patients were forced to spend over four hours on trolleys and in corridors after their time in A&E as beds could not be found.
Delays were also experienced by those brought in by ambulances.
One in six crews had to queue outside A&E units for more than 30 minutes, waiting to handover patients to hospital staff - the target is 15.
Royal College of Emergency Medicine president Dr Katherine Henderson said: "The NHS is struggling to escape its spiral of decline.
"This will have been a miserable Christmas period for many patients and staff alike."
NHS medical director Prof Stephen Powis said it had been a "very busy" period, compounded by an earlier outbreak of flu than had happened in previous winters.
He said the health service was looking to recruit more staff and open more beds to help relieve pressure in the future.
In the meantime, hospitals have been forced to take emergency steps to relieve pressure.
Many have postponed routine operations to try to free up space.
And some hospitals have even had to introduce emergency protocols and re-route ambulances to other nearby services.
There were more than 120 cases of this happening last month - with some hospitals instigating the measure, known as an A&E divert, multiple times.
'My father-in-law spent 25 hours waiting for a bed'
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Mark Newton reveals the long wait his father-in-law faced after attending the A&E unit at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital
Mark Newton's 83-year-old father-in-law, George Bufton, was taken to Shrewsbury Hospital in the first week of January.
He had a chest infection and a suspected gall bladder problem - and this came just over a month after a major bowel cancer operation.
He spent 25 hours waiting for a bed to be found.
Mr Newton said he was "gobsmacked" by what he saw.
At one point about 20 trolleys were waiting in the corridor, with queues of ambulances outside A&E.
He said staff were doing an "admirable" job in the circumstances but there was just not enough money or staff to cope.
"It was utter mayhem. This can't continue. Something must be done about it," Mr Newton said.
How bad has it been?
December was certainly the worst month since the four-hour target was introduced, in 2004.
Just 79.8% of patients spent less than four hours in A&E - well below the 95% target.
Three trusts - Norfolk and Norwich, Stockport and Hull - all saw performance drop below 60%.
Meanwhile, a group of Midlands trusts - Shrewsbury and Telford, Leicester, Birmingham and United Lincolnshire - were all among the 10 worst performers.
Waiting times have been getting gradually worse over the autumn - October and November saw record worst levels set as well.
But the problems in emergency care has not just been confined to A&E waits.
The number of patients who then needed to be admitted on to the ward and faced long delays also hit a new worst level.
There were 98,500 patients who faced a so-called "trolley wait" of a further four hours.
That is nearly one in four of the patients who needed to be admitted.
These "trolley waits" can be in corridors or temporary waiting areas, either in A&E or just outside.
Patients who are admitted are often the sickest of those who attend A&E.
The waiting time targets for cancer treatment and routine operations, such as knee and hip replacements, have also been missed.
What is the cause of the pressures?
Hospital bosses acknowledged it had been one of the most difficult months they had seen - and this comes despite the extra money the government has put in this year, which saw the NHS budget grow by 3.5%.
There are a variety of reasons behind the problems.
Prof Joe Harrison, chief executive of Milton Keynes Hospital, said his staff had been seeing some very sick patients.
He said it had mainly been a combination of older patients and children, who seemed to have been particularly hard hit by flu and respiratory problems.
But the figures also show the number of beds closed to contain vomiting and diarrhoea outbreaks rose by more than 60% compared with last year, with 760 beds closed on average each day last month - nearly 1% of the bed supply lost.
Prof Harrison also said the social-care system in the community, which hospitals rely on to discharge patients into, seemed to have been struggling more than it had been last year.
"Keeping people safe has been our main priority. There is significant pressure, not just in this hospital, but across the NHS system as a whole," he said.
Richard Murray, from the King's Fund think tank, said he believed there were too few beds in the system.
"Hospital bed numbers have fallen significantly over the past decade. With hospitals full to capacity, it is clear that bed reductions have gone too far."
Image source, Getty Images
What about the rest of the UK?
The difficulties have not just been confined to England - none of the three core targets covering A&E, routine operations or cancer is being met in the other three nations.
In recent days, the Hywel Dda health board, which is in charge of services in west Wales, said it had had to cancel planned surgery at a number of local hospitals because of the "challenging" situation.
The British Medical Association said services across the nation had been stretched, with some reports cancer surgery had had to be cancelled too.
The four-hour performance figures for December will not be released by the Welsh government until later in the month.
Scotland's figures for the festive period are not available yet either - but November was one of the worst months on record.
Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland, which has the worst record when it comes to A&E delays, there is concern continuing strikes by nurses will have exacerbated the winter pressures.
While A&E departments have remained running during the strikes, the second round of which took place this week, there have been reports hospitals have struggled to discharge patients quickly enough.
And this has a knock-on effect of causing delays admitting patients.


bbcuk--2020-01-09--Worst year for retail in 25 years, says trade body

Retail sales fell for the first time in 25 years last year , according to the leading UK retail industry body .
The British Retail Consortium ( BRC ) said total sales fell 0.1 % , marking the first annual sales decline since 1995 .
Sales in November and December were particularly weak , falling 0.9 % , the BRC said .
A separate report from Barclaycard found a rise in consumer confidence had failed to boost festive spending .
The payments firm , which processes nearly half of all UK debit and credit transactions , said that consumer spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into account .
Helen Dickinson , chief executive of the BRC , said : `` Twice the UK faced the prospect of a no-deal Brexit , as well as political instability that concluded in a December general election - further weakening demand for the festive period .
`` Retailers also faced challenges as consumers became both more cautious and more conscientious as they went about their Christmas shopping , '' she added .
Are these figures too gloomy ?
The BRC 's figures do not include the entire retail market .
For instance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retailers , including Amazon , which some experts reckon now account for some 20 % of online sales .
However , its chief executive told the BBC Today programme she felt the figures did give `` an accurate picture '' .
Ms Dickinson said : `` These figures are not an estimate , they are full sales data from retailers that represent the majority of retail sales . ''
She added : `` While it is not 100 % of retailers in the country , some businesses that are n't included will also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bust . ''
The BBC 's business correspondent Emma Simpson says : `` Figuring out what 's going on in retail can be a bit of a jigsaw puzzle , and this is certainly a very large piece , particularly when it comes to reflecting how our biggest , traditional , chains are faring . ''
What is the difference between total and like-for-like sales ?
Total sales figures look at all sales , while like-for-like data compares sales from shops that were open the previous year , stripping out the effects of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sales climbed in December , but that was due to a relatively late Black Friday , the BRC said .
Once November , was included to include this distortion , like-for-like sales dropped 1.2 % compared with the previous year , it said .
Despite the drop in total sales last year , the volume of sales was still higher than in 2017 .
Payments company Barclaycard said in a separate report that supermarket sales contracted by 0.9 % in December , while sales at specialist retailers such as toys and gaming stores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picked out some bright spots , noting cinema sales rose by 19 % , helped by blockbuster releases including Star Wars : The Rise of Skywalker and Frozen II .
Spending in pubs and takeaways also rose over the festive period .
It 's been a tough year for High Street retailers with several shops either going into administration or announcing job losses in 2019 .
Mothercare UK , Bonmarche and luxury jeweller Links of London all went into administration last year .
Meanwhile , Philip Green 's Arcadia retail empire , HMV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Costs are rising , with business rates , rents and wages taking a bigger chunk of retailers ' expenditure .
And with footfall in decline , many shops are simply too big and frequently in the wrong locations .
Also , High Street retailers are under pressure from changing shopping habits , with customers spending one in every £5 online .
Did you cut back on your spending this Christmas ?
If so , why ?
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The BBC's business correspondent Emma Simpson says: "Figuring out what's going on in retail can be a bit of a jigsaw puzzle, and this is certainly a very large piece, particularly when it comes to reflecting how our biggest, traditional, chains are faring."


bbcuk--2020-01-09--Plastic packaging ban 'could harm environment'

Consumer pressure to end plastic packaging in shops could actually be harming the environment , a report says .
Firms are swapping to other packaging materials which are potentially even worse for the environment , the cross-party Parliamentary group warns .
Glass bottles , for instance , are much heavier than plastic so are far more polluting to transport .
Paper bags tend to have higher carbon emissions than plastic bags – and are more difficult to re-use .
The change in packaging materials has been prompted by concern from shoppers about the impact of plastic waste in the oceans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say the consequences of using new materials has not been properly assessed .
• Reality Check : Should we burn or bury waste plastic ?
• Plastic particles falling out of sky with snow Several supermarkets , for instance , are selling more drinks in coated cartons under the assumption that they can be recycled .
In fact , the Green Alliance says , the UK only has the facilities to recycle a third of the coated containers in circulation .
The group has been working with recycling organisations to survey shops ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polluting the oceans .
Its spokeswoman , Libby Peake , told BBC News : “ A lot of shops are selling packaging described as biodegradable or compostable .
“ In fact the items might only be composted in an industrial composter – and , even then , some items might not be fully digested.
” The report says : “ Over 80 % of consumers think biodegradable or compostable plastic is environmentally friendly , but there is little understanding of what the terms mean and how the material should be dealt with .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to where it should be used and how it should be marked to avoid confusing consumers and potentially causing more problems.
” The retailers worried that confusion could potentially harm the environment if people either put `` compostable '' plastic in with conventional plastic , or littered it , wrongly assuming it would biodegrade like an apple core .
Some companies that had tried using this type of plastic also suggested that the material did not degrade as expected in real world conditions .
One firm is quoted as saying : “ Consumers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compostable and biodegradable mean .
“ We are aware that [ by switching from plastic to other materials ] we may , in some cases , be increasing our carbon footprint.
” Another said : `` If I could have a magic wand , I ’ d like to see more joined up , top-down government intervention… We would like to see government be braver . ''
A different firm said : “ Packaging technology innovations can be quite the competitive advantage in the current climate.
” Andrew Opie , from the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearer strategy .
He said : “ All responsible retailers agree that climate change needs to be at the heart of their business , whether that is sourcing products or changing packaging .
“ Plastic remains the most effective material in many circumstances - for example cucumbers wrapped in plastic last 14 days longer , reducing food waste .
`` A coherent waste and resources strategy is one that prioritises reducing the environmental impact of the things we buy , not simply reducing plastic use.
” What the government is doing The government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 2018 , and has conducted initial consultations on three policies : extended producer responsibility for packaging ; introducing a deposit return system for drinks bottles ; and bringing in greater consistency for recycling and waste collections .
Ministers say businesses will pay for 100 % of costs for dealing with material when it becomes waste , as opposed to around 10 % currently .
Consultations on the three topics are expected later this year , but the timeline for their implementation remains unclear , and the government has not confirmed if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and container sizes .
The government has partially banned microbeads , and a ban on plastic straws , stirrers and cotton buds is set to come in later this year .
A ban on expanded polystyrene has also been mooted and the Treasury has promised to introduce a tax on plastic packaging that does not include at least 30 % recycled content .
The UK has committed to adopting the EU ’ s Circular Economy Package , which includes much more stringent recycling targets , but has not committed to transposing the Single-Use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ action on plastic reduction , including bans on plastic cutlery .
They have said , however , that they will meet or exceed whatever the EU does in this area .
It is also not clear if the UK will adopt the EU ’ s much more wide-ranging ban on microbeads .

The report says: “Over 80% of consumers think biodegradable or compostable plastic is environmentally friendly, but there is little understanding of what the terms mean and how the material should be dealt with.


bbcuk--2020-01-09--John Lewis warns it may not pay staff bonus

Retail group John Lewis Partnership has warned its staff bonus may be in doubt as it reported a fall in festive sales at its department store chain .
It warned that annual partnership profits were expected to be `` substantially down on last year '' .
The board will meet in February to decide if it is `` prudent '' to pay the staff bonus , the partnership said .
In a surprise announcement , John Lewis & Partners also said its managing director Paula Nickolds will step down .
The partnership has been combining the executive teams behind John @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and she was expected to become executive director of brand next month when the teams merged .
John Lewis said : `` After some reflection on the responsibilities of her proposed new role , we have decided together that the implementation of the future partnership structure in February is the right time for her to move on . ''
• Worst year for retail in 25 years , says trade body Ms Nickolds was the first woman to become managing director of the partnership , having worked her way up after joining as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will leave the partnership next month .
There will be another big change at the top of the partnership in February , when top civil servant Sharon White will take over as chair .
Outgoing chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield said the decision for Ms Nickolds to step down was taken by both of them .
`` Paula has been a brilliant leader of this business for many years , '' he said .
`` We decided together now is the time to step away . ''
Ms Nickolds had been a rising star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what had changed between October and January , Sir Charlie said : `` Things change .
People 's desires , people 's perspectives change .
`` My perspective is that what we 've done and what we 're doing is the right thing to do . ''
The decision on whether or not to pay the traditional staff bonus , which will be taken by Ms White , will be `` influenced by our level of profitability , planned investment and maintaining the strength of our balance sheet '' , the partnership said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by its staff , who are known as partners .
The last time that staff did not receive a bonus was in 1953 .
However , whether or not it would be paid was in doubt last year .
In March 2019 , the partnership cut the bonus after a plunge in profits .
John Lewis warned that this time around , full-year profits might not be enough for it to pay out any bonus .
The partnership fell to a loss in the first half of 2019 , as it warned of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subdued consumer confidence '' .
It said on Thursday that it would reverse those losses , but it warned that profits would still be `` substantially down '' on the previous year .
Sir Charlie said that profits had been hit `` because we are price competitive , because we match prices '' .
John Lewis has a price comparison promise enshrined in its `` never knowingly undersold '' slogan , which commits it to matching the prices of High Street competitors , but not those of online-only competitors .
Trading conditions are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Unfortunately , you ca n't choose the weather .
When the weather is fine , you make hay - and we did .
`` You have to use the winter to sow the seeds for the next harvest . ''
Christmas sales at John Lewis department stores were down 2 % on a like-for-like basis , the partnership said .
Sales in its home and technology departments were weak , down 3.4 % and 4 % respectively in the seven weeks from 17 November to 4 January .
But it said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Black Friday department store sales jumped 10 % .
At the same time , Waitrose sales rose 0.4 % , which Sir Charlie described as `` a good sales performance '' in a `` weak grocery market '' .
Julie Palmer , a partner at Begbies Traynor , said the results were `` a huge dent to John Lewis ' recovery plans '' .
`` A company that was once placed on a pedestal as the future of retail by government and analysts has had its legs taken from under it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 , '' she said .
The `` never knowingly undersold '' promise `` continues to erode margins as it seeks to compete on price with competitors that have leaner operations and lower overheads '' , she said .
`` The rules of this promise may need to be reviewed and renewed if the retailer is to start turning around , and a savvy operator with Treasury experience like Sharon White may be just the kind of mind needed to do it , '' Ms Palmer added .
Is a bonus better than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bonus this year ?
If so , how did it make you feel ?
Email haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist .
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John Lewis said: "After some reflection on the responsibilities of her proposed new role, we have decided together that the implementation of the future partnership structure in February is the right time for her to move on."


bbcuk--2020-01-09--Tesco's sales fall in 'challenging' market

Sales at the UK 's biggest supermarket , Tesco , fell slightly in the months that include the crucial Christmas period .
But stronger takings in the weeks just before the festive period , which included its biggest day to date for food sales , helped bolster performance .
It was the final Christmas under the leadership of Tesco 's boss Dave Lewis , who said the chain had `` performed well '' in a `` subdued '' UK market .
However , Tesco said the UK market had `` clearly been challenging '' .
Mr Lewis said customers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Christmas , but the supermarket claimed `` strong '' promotions appealed to shoppers .
That helped the firm increase sales by 0.1 % in the six-week festive period .
However , that was not enough to reverse a decline in UK sales in the 19 weeks to 4 January .
During that period , like-for-like sales , which exclude new store openings , fell by 0.2 % .
Julie Palmer from consultancy Begbies Traynor said Mr Lewis would feel that he was leaving the company on `` solid foundations '' .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the UK 's 'big four ' supermarkets , Tesco has managed to remain robust during this precarious period , '' she said .
In contrast , rival Marks & Spencer reported a rise in sales for the first time since 2017 in the the 13 weeks to 28 December .
M & S said its food departments had a `` standout '' run in the two weeks leading up to Christmas , with like-for-like sales up 1.4 % .
However , clothing and home sales were worse than expected , dropping 1.7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chain 's boss Steve Rowe also described the market as `` challenging '' .
On Monday , market research firm Kantar said supermarket sales growth over Christmas was the slowest in five years .
`` There was no sign of the post-election rush many had hoped for in the final weeks before Christmas , with shoppers carefully watching their budgets , '' said Kantar 's Fraser McKevitt .
Did you cut back on your spending this Christmas ?
If so , why ?
Email haveyoursay @ bbc.co.uk .
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"Despite the slump in sales for some of the UK's 'big four' supermarkets, Tesco has managed to remain robust during this precarious period," she said.


bbcuk--2020-01-09--'Freedom' or 'petulance'? Media split on royal move

`` Come to Canada , where you belong . ''
It 's a bold invitation from the Toronto Star as the world 's media digests the news that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will step back from royal duties and consider basing themselves abroad .
Not everyone is as supportive of Prince Harry and Meghan 's decision , and there is some outright criticism to be found in editorials and leader columns of British newspapers .
A scathing review of the move in theDaily Mirror says there `` can be no sympathy '' with the way the announcement was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find even a few moments to do our Queen the courtesy of discussing their plans , '' its leader reads .
It says the move may cause `` an irreparable rift '' with the rest of the royal family .
The Times leader calls the move `` premature ... petulant and ill-judged '' .
`` The announcement carries all the hallmarks of the petulance and hot-headedness for which Prince Harry is sadly becoming well-known , '' it reads , adding that little thought has been given to the practicalities of their new roles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's wish to be financially independent but still be members of the royal family implies that they `` want to have it both ways '' .
The Daily Express 's leader is slightly more forgiving .
It calls the couple a `` tremendous breath of fresh air '' but says they would have `` gained more empathy '' had they `` shown respect '' .
`` It is a massive error judgment not to have informed the Queen of such a bold decision , '' it reads .
`` As a country we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of The Firm .
And Harry 's latest decision of not playing by those rules falls way short . ''
The Daily Mail 's Richard Kay analyses `` where it all went wrong '' for Harry and Meghan .
He says the couple were `` bent on re-writing the rule book of what being a member of the royal family actually means '' from the moment they married , which led to a `` disconnect '' .
`` The rot set in even before the glow of that May wedding day had passed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among other things , the privacy of their honeymoon and their `` secrecy '' over their son 's birth .
The Daily Telegraph 's Camilla Tominey says their `` break for freedom '' was `` long planned '' and can be traced back to November 2018 , when they announced a `` split '' from the royal household they shared with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge .
She quotes a source telling the paper at the time that Harry had `` always complained about being sidelined by William '' and they wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Across the Atlantic , the New York Times says the duchess faced `` lacerating criticism '' from Britons who `` like their royals to be dutiful and traditional '' and from the tabloid press .
She was criticised for being `` too bold , too outspoken , too difficult , too American , too multicultural '' , it writes , adding that the couple 's desire to `` renounce the usual menu of royal obligations speaks directly to the challenges facing the monarchy '' .
The Australian says the move has `` breathed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Australia 's ties to the British monarchy '' .
It interviews the chairman of the Australian Republic Movement , who says that it `` highlights the royal family 's waning power '' .
Back at the Toronto Star , columnist Vinay Menon writes that the move will mean the couple are `` finally free '' and adds : `` Stepping back from your royal duties amounts to stepping into your future . ''
He adds that the rest of the Royal Family `` do n't deserve '' them .

"The announcement carries all the hallmarks of the petulance and hot-headedness for which Prince Harry is sadly becoming well-known," it reads, adding that little thought has been given to the practicalities of their new roles.