theweekuk--2020-03-03--Instant Opinion: Boris ‘playing hardball’ in Brussels

The Week ’ s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media , with excerpts from each .
“ The government has dropped all talk of seeking a ‘ deep and special ’ relationship , or of ‘ frictionless trade ’ , and seems to have written off hope of a long-term deal ensuring access for the UK ’ s giant financial services industry .
Ministers have made clear that they put the sovereign right to diverge from EU rules above any economic benefit , and they have instructed business and farmers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It could all be a grand bluff .
But barring another last-minute Johnson pivot in mid-year as the steep cost of a chaotic no-deal rupture comes into sharper focus , the UK appears to be steering toward a far more disruptive break on a much shorter timescale than EU policymakers had contemplated.
” on the future of disease response “ The coronavirus has a wickedly dark sense of humour , and a taste for rather biting irony and symbolism .
When it comes to comedy , our budding pandemic – newly arrived in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of course , anthropomorphism is one of humanity ’ s dumbest tendencies .
We can ’ t help but see human traits in objects and things which aren ’ t human .
We ascribe emotions to animals , we see moods in weather and landscape .
Nevertheless , it ’ s hard to shake the notion that coronavirus has something to say about life in 2020.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a weekly round-up of the best articles and columns from the UK and abroad , try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden win “ One reason why the Republican Party failed to stop Trump is that its voters were intensely skeptical of their leaders .
Conservatism never fails , it is only failed , as Rick Perlstein famously remarked .
The movement ’ s radical and impractical ideology was never going to be carried out , and so it was necessary to blame its failings on the shortcomings of the party leadership .
Conservative-movement politics has spent decades telling its audience that they have failed because they were sold out by weak-willed leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message to discredit his intraparty adversaries , painting them all as losers , and promising that he would finally enable them to win .
The Sanders campaign is , in many ways , an attempt to run the same play in a different party .
Sanders may not be Trump ’ s perfect ideological mirror image , but his notion of a political revolution that mobilizes the people to destroy an Establishment has much of the same flavor.
” Pope ’ s view on women in the church has brought frustration , anger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is treated a priori as an egotistic delusion , a sinful hankering for power , a failure to accept our womanhood , the product of a clericalist mentality , an evil threat to the church .
We are dangerous women to be kept out in the cold .
No warm embrace from male-governed Mother Church for us .
I was not one of the women who shed tears reading the pope ’ s latest words on what women can and can not be , can and can not do .
All my tears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , have been shed long ago .
These words no longer held any power over me , no longer had the power to wound me .
To put it bluntly , I do not recognise myself in the pope ’ s view of women , and haven ’ t done so for a very long time.
” on the dangers of reductionism “ Pro-Israel is a phrase I ’ ve come to abhor .
Far from being useful or accurate , it ’ s meaningless , and even dangerous .
How can one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced to a binary state ?
Is there really a line that , when crossed , transforms one from ‘ pro ’ to ‘ anti ’ ?
And who gets to decide where that line is ?
For example , I strongly disagree with some Israeli policies , like the theocracy that discriminates against women and non-orthodox Jews , tacitly endorsed by generations of Israeli leaders .
The current Israeli government uses scare tactics to inflate a sense of threat , diverting attention from Israel ’ s myriad social inequities , like the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared with Israeli Arabs .
I am also uncomfortable with the ties being forged by the Israeli government with authoritarian leaders of Hungary , Egypt and Saudi Arabia .
”

The Week’s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media, with excerpts from each.
1. Paul Taylor in Politico EU
on tussles in Brussels
Britain plays hardball in Brexit trade talks
“The government has dropped all talk of seeking a ‘deep and special’ relationship, or of ‘frictionless trade’, and seems to have written off hope of a long-term deal ensuring access for the UK’s giant financial services industry. Ministers have made clear that they put the sovereign right to diverge from EU rules above any economic benefit, and they have instructed business and farmers to prepare for friction at the borders. It could all be a grand bluff. But barring another last-minute Johnson pivot in mid-year as the steep cost of a chaotic no-deal rupture comes into sharper focus, the UK appears to be steering toward a far more disruptive break on a much shorter timescale than EU policymakers had contemplated.”
2. Neil Mackay in The Herald Scotland
on the future of disease response
Coronavirus could change our world forever
“The coronavirus has a wickedly dark sense of humour, and a taste for rather biting irony and symbolism. When it comes to comedy, our budding pandemic – newly arrived in Scotland – has very modern sensibilities. Of course, anthropomorphism is one of humanity’s dumbest tendencies. We can’t help but see human traits in objects and things which aren’t human. We ascribe emotions to animals, we see moods in weather and landscape. Nevertheless, it’s hard to shake the notion that coronavirus has something to say about life in 2020.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For a weekly round-up of the best articles and columns from the UK and abroad, try The Week magazine. Start your trial subscription today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
3. Jonathan Chait in New York Magazine
on a resurgent former VP
Why Democratic endorsements can help Joe Biden win
“One reason why the Republican Party failed to stop Trump is that its voters were intensely skeptical of their leaders. Conservatism never fails, it is only failed, as Rick Perlstein famously remarked. The movement’s radical and impractical ideology was never going to be carried out, and so it was necessary to blame its failings on the shortcomings of the party leadership. Conservative-movement politics has spent decades telling its audience that they have failed because they were sold out by weak-willed leaders in Washington. Trump used that exact message to discredit his intraparty adversaries, painting them all as losers, and promising that he would finally enable them to win. The Sanders campaign is, in many ways, an attempt to run the same play in a different party. Sanders may not be Trump’s perfect ideological mirror image, but his notion of a political revolution that mobilizes the people to destroy an Establishment has much of the same flavor.”
4. Soline Humbert in The Irish Times
on Catholicism’s misogyny
Pope’s view on women in the church has brought frustration, anger and tears
“Our sense of vocation is treated a priori as an egotistic delusion, a sinful hankering for power, a failure to accept our womanhood, the product of a clericalist mentality, an evil threat to the church. We are dangerous women to be kept out in the cold. No warm embrace from male-governed Mother Church for us. I was not one of the women who shed tears reading the pope’s latest words on what women can and cannot be, can and cannot do. All my tears, and they were copious and anguished, have been shed long ago. These words no longer held any power over me, no longer had the power to wound me. To put it bluntly, I do not recognise myself in the pope’s view of women, and haven’t done so for a very long time.”
5. Clifford M. Kulwin in the Los Angeles Times
on the dangers of reductionism
Why ‘pro-Israel’ is a dangerous label
“Pro-Israel is a phrase I’ve come to abhor. Far from being useful or accurate, it’s meaningless, and even dangerous. How can one’s feelings about another country be reduced to a binary state? Is there really a line that, when crossed, transforms one from ‘pro’ to ‘anti’? And who gets to decide where that line is? For example, I strongly disagree with some Israeli policies, like the theocracy that discriminates against women and non-orthodox Jews, tacitly endorsed by generations of Israeli leaders. The current Israeli government uses scare tactics to inflate a sense of threat, diverting attention from Israel’s myriad social inequities, like the far longer life expectancy of Israeli Jews compared with Israeli Arabs. I am also uncomfortable with the ties being forged by the Israeli government with authoritarian leaders of Hungary, Egypt and Saudi Arabia.”


theweekuk--2020-03-03--Will Priti Patel resign?

Will Priti Patel resign?

A former aide to Priti Patel received a £25,000 payout from the government after allegedly attempting suicide following “ unprovoked aggression ” and bullying by the Tory minister , according to reports .
Legal correspondence seen by the BBC says that the unnamed civil servant claims she was dismissed because Patel did not “ like [ her ] face ” .
The then minister for employment is alleged to have shouted at the woman in her private office , telling her to “ get lost ” and “ get out of her face ” .
Patel acted “ without warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of aggression ” , say the legal documents .
The files state that the junior aide subsequently took an overdose at work , followed by a further overdose at home , and was then rushed to hospital , where she spent the night in resuscitation .
She brought a formal complaint of bullying and harassment against the Department of Work and Pensions ( DWP ) after being sacked in October 2015 .
“ A settlement was reached in 2017 for £25,000 after the member of staff threatened to bring a legal claim of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grounds of race and disability against the department , including Ms Patel who is directly named , ” reports the BBC .
The claims surfaced hours after the Cabinet Office pledged to investigate whether Patel , now home secretary , had breached the ministerial code , amid other allegations of bullying .
The inquiry announcement followed the resignation of Philip Rutnam , the Home Office ’ s most senior civil servant , who claims that Patel waged a “ vicious and orchestrated ” campaign against him .
What are the other allegations against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ misconduct have been brought against Patel .
Ministers who have worked with her in government have described a “ pattern ” of unacceptable behaviour spanning her ministerial career , says The Times .
In one of the recent alleged incidents , HuffPost reports that Patel asked Rutnam , then permanent secretary at the Home Office , to fire the department ’ s head of news on Christmas Eve .
“ Rutnam , however , refused to act until the new year , believing it too cruel , ” says the news site .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised directly with No .
10 in 2017 , when she was serving as international development secretary .
“ It is one thing to be a tough and demanding minister - and that is entirely appropriate - but there is a line that you do not cross .
She persistently went over that line , ” a minister who worked with her at the time told The Times .
Another senior figure in the Department for International Development said that Patel was “ reviled ” for her “ rudeness and insensitivity ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hated for the way she treated people .
She was just vile , ” the source added .
Patel ’ s most recent spat has seen her allegedly force out Rutnam from the Home Office , where she has ruled since last July .
According to The Times , several sources say Patel has clashed repeatedly with Home Office staff over her demands , some of which were considered illegal by officials .
In a public statement announcing his resignation on Saturday , Rutnam alleged that her conduct had included “ swearing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demands ” .
The former permanent secretary also said he would be suing the Home Office for constructive dismissal .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed Patel following Rutnam ’ s allegations , saying publicly that she was “ a fantastic home secretary ” , while Health Secretary Matt Hancock described her as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership front-runner Keir Starmer tweeted that he welcomed “ the announcement that the Cabinet Secretary will be holding an inquiry into the Home Secretary ’ s conduct ” , but added that “ we need assurances that this inquiry will cover Priti Patel ’ s entire career as a minister ” .
Outgoing Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has backed calls by the FDA union , which represents senior civil servants , for an “ independent ” inquiry into Patel ’ s conduct , saying an internal investigation would lack “ objectivity ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Corbyn said Patel should be sacked if Rutnam ’ s accusations were found to be true .
On Monday , hours before the latest allegations emerged , Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove told Parliament that Patel “ absolutely rejects ” claims of bullying , adding that the investigation into whether she had breached the ministerial code would “ establish the facts ” .
“ The prime minister has expressed his full confidence in her and having worked closely with the home secretary over a number of years , I have the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ superb minister doing a great job , ” Gove said .
“ This government always takes any complaints relating to the ministerial code seriously , and in line with the process set out in the ministerial code the prime minister has asked the Cabinet Office to establish the facts .
“ We make no apology of having strong ministers in place.
” A spokesperson for Patel last night said that “ the home secretary completely rejects all allegations made against her ” .

A former aide to Priti Patel received a £25,000 payout from the government after allegedly attempting suicide following “unprovoked aggression” and bullying by the Tory minister, according to reports.
Legal correspondence seen by the BBC says that the unnamed civil servant claims she was dismissed because Patel did not “like [her] face”. The then minister for employment is alleged to have shouted at the woman in her private office, telling her to “get lost” and “get out of her face”.
Patel acted “without warning” and with an “unprovoked level of aggression”, say the legal documents.
The files state that the junior aide subsequently took an overdose at work, followed by a further overdose at home, and was then rushed to hospital, where she spent the night in resuscitation.
She brought a formal complaint of bullying and harassment against the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) after being sacked in October 2015.
“A settlement was reached in 2017 for £25,000 after the member of staff threatened to bring a legal claim of bullying, harassment and discrimination on the grounds of race and disability against the department, including Ms Patel who is directly named,” reports the BBC.
The claims surfaced hours after the Cabinet Office pledged to investigate whether Patel, now home secretary, had breached the ministerial code, amid other allegations of bullying.
The inquiry announcement followed the resignation of Philip Rutnam, the Home Office’s most senior civil servant, who claims that Patel waged a “vicious and orchestrated” campaign against him.
What are the other allegations against Patel?
Several allegations of bullying and misconduct have been brought against Patel.
Ministers who have worked with her in government have described a “pattern” of unacceptable behaviour spanning her ministerial career, says The Times.
In one of the recent alleged incidents, HuffPost reports that Patel asked Rutnam, then permanent secretary at the Home Office, to fire the department’s head of news on Christmas Eve.
“Rutnam, however, refused to act until the new year, believing it too cruel,” says the news site.
Concerns over Patel’s behaviour were raised directly with No. 10 in 2017, when she was serving as international development secretary.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--Sport shorts: Barbie miss a trick by not selling its Dina Asher-Smith doll and seven F1 teams object

Sport shorts: Barbie miss a trick by not selling its Dina Asher-Smith doll and seven F1 teams object to FIA’s Ferrari settlement

1 .
Barbie ’ s Dina doll is not for sale British athletics star Dina Asher-Smith was overjoyed to unveil her one-of-a-kind Barbie yesterday , but fans were left disappointed to find out that the doll will not be available for general sale .
On Twitter the sprinter said : “ So it ’ s finally out ... @ Barbie have made me into a one-of-a-kind Shero doll .
When I was told they wanted to do this I honestly screamed , jumped up + down and ran around my house !
!
!
“ When I was growing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looked like me full stop , let alone one that represented what I wanted to be without compromising musculature and smaller features like make up + jewellery .
“ The level of detail and care is incredible .
I want to say a humongous thank you to the entire Barbie team for this effort and honour .
This is going straight in my trophy cabinet.
” In response many fans asked where they could buy the Dina doll , but the official Barbie Twitter account said : “ The doll was a one-of-a-kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will not be available for purchase.
” One fan , Kerrin McIntosh , said : “ Barbie are missing a trick .
Even I would buy one of these , never mind the millions of children/people that Dina inspires .
Go Dina !
You deserve this and we ’ re all behind you !
” Asher-Smith , the 200m world champion , will be one of Team GB ’ s biggest medal hopes at this summer ’ s Olympic Games in Tokyo .
First Atlético Madrid , then Watford and now Chelsea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now three games out of four as the Reds were beaten 2-0 by the Blues at a swinging Stamford Bridge last night .
Goals from Willian and Ross Barkley dumped Liverpool out of the FA Cup and added to Jurgen Klopp ’ s woes .
Last night ’ s other fifth round ties saw Newcastle United win 3-2 away at West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United beat Reading 2-1 after extra-time .
There are three FA Cup fifth round fixtures this evening .
Leicester City face Birmingham City , Sheffield Wednesday host holders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City .
• Tonight : Leicester City vs. Birmingham City ( 7.45pm , live on Facebook ) ; Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City ( 7.45pm , live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer ) ; Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City ( 7.45pm , live on BBC iPlayer ) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford came in for some criticism after his error led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday ’ s Premier League clash at Goodison , but despite the mistake the England No.1 has been backed by national team boss Gareth Southgate .
Three Lions head coach Southgate said : “ His performances for us throughout have been outstanding .
I think he has been a key part of some big results we have had .
I think that is clear to everybody but in goal , if you are the England goalkeeper , you are under the spotlight .
I am expecting him to bounce back .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do better with but then he had some outstanding saves at the end of the game .
That is the life of a goalkeeper.
” Southgate is confident Kane and Rashford will be fit for Euro 2020 The men ’ s and women ’ s teams in The Hundred will have an equal share of prize money for this summer ’ s inaugural competition which starts in July .
Sky Sports reports that the total prize budget of £600,000 will be split 50-50 between the men ’ s and women ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ECB 's long-term commitment to make cricket a gender-balanced sport ” .
Seven Formula 1 teams have issued a joint statement expressing their “ shock and surprise ” to the FIA ’ s confidential “ settlement ” with Ferrari over their 2019-spec power unit .
Signed by McLaren , Mercedes , Racing Point , Red Bull , Renault , Alpha Tauri and Williams , the joint statement said : “ We , the undersigned teams , were surprised and shocked by the FIA ’ s statement of Friday 28 February regarding the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ferrari Formula 1 Power Unit .
“ An international sporting regulator has the responsibility to act with the highest standards of governance , integrity and transparency .
After months of investigations that were undertaken by the FIA only following queries raised by other teams , we strongly object to the FIA reaching a confidential settlement agreement with Ferrari to conclude this matter .
“ Therefore , we hereby state publicly our shared commitment to pursue full and proper disclosure in this matter , to ensure that our sport treats all competitors fairly and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behalf of the fans , the participants and the stakeholders of Formula One .
In addition , we reserve our rights to seek legal redress , within the FIA ’ s due process and before the competent courts.
” Sebastian Vettel maintains that he wants to continue driving in Formula 1 but the German admits it could be away from Ferrari .
After stating “ there are no signs and no reason why I couldn ’ t or shouldn ’ t continue ” , he added he could follow in the footsteps of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When asked if that was possible , he said : “ It is .
I think there is even an example of a German who went somewhere else after Ferrari , if I remember correctly.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The world of cycling is in mourning today following the death of Team Ineos sporting director Nicolas Portal .
The Frenchman , aged 40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yesterday .
Team Ineos said in a statement : “ It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of our much loved team-mate , colleague and friend Nico Portal , who died suddenly this afternoon at his home in Andorra .
“ We are all overcome with grief at this terrible news and would ask everyone to respect the family ’ s privacy at this difficult time .
RIP Nico - your spirit will always be with us on the road and you will forever be in our hearts.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arsenal Manchester City ’ s Premier League home clash with Arsenal has been rearranged for next Wednesday ( 11 March ) and will be live on Sky Sports .
The original fixture on 1 March was postponed because of City ’ s involvement in the Carabao Cup final , which they won 2-1 against Aston Villa .
Next week ’ s match will see Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta return to the Etihad Stadium , where he was previously assistant to City boss Pep Guardiola .
“ Mako virus shock ” is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Daily Express , which is one of several newspapers to relay the latest misfortune to befall England rugby player Mako Vunipola .
The Saracens prop has been stood down from the England squad for this Saturday ’ s Six Nations clash with Wales and is self-isolating after he travelled through Hong Kong last weekend , which is considered a hotspot for coronavirus .
Mako Vunipola virus shock for England rugby and a howler by ‘ Adriaaaan ’ gifts Chelsea FA Cup win ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

1. Barbie’s Dina doll is not for sale British athletics star Dina Asher-Smith was overjoyed to unveil her one-of-a-kind Barbie yesterday, but fans were left disappointed to find out that the doll will not be available for general sale. On Twitter the sprinter said: “So it’s finally out... @Barbie have made me into a one-of-a-kind Shero doll. When I was told they wanted to do this I honestly screamed, jumped up + down and ran around my house!!! “When I was growing up there wasn’t many dolls that looked like me full stop, let alone one that represented what I wanted to be without compromising musculature and smaller features like make up + jewellery. “The level of detail and care is incredible. I want to say a humongous thank you to the entire Barbie team for this effort and honour. This is going straight in my trophy cabinet.” In response many fans asked where they could buy the Dina doll, but the official Barbie Twitter account said: “The doll was a one-of-a-kind gift, made to honor Dina. It will not be available for purchase.” One fan, Kerrin McIntosh, said: “Barbie are missing a trick. Even I would buy one of these, never mind the millions of children/people that Dina inspires. Go Dina! You deserve this and we’re all behind you!” Asher-Smith, the 200m world champion, will be one of Team GB’s biggest medal hopes at this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. The level of detail and care is incredible. I want to say a humongous thank you to the entire Barbie team for this effort and honour. This is going straight in my trophy cabinet ♥ pic.twitter.com/IMQKCU59Xj — Dina Asher-Smith (@dinaashersmith) March 3, 2020 2. Liverpool lose again First Atlético Madrid, then Watford and now Chelsea. Liverpool’s losing streak is now three games out of four as the Reds were beaten 2-0 by the Blues at a swinging Stamford Bridge last night. Goals from Willian and Ross Barkley dumped Liverpool out of the FA Cup and added to Jurgen Klopp’s woes. Last night’s other fifth round ties saw Newcastle United win 3-2 away at West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United beat Reading 2-1 after extra-time. Skip advert FA Cup reactions: Lampard impressed by Chelsea’s display against Liverpool 3. Tonight’s FA Cup fixtures There are three FA Cup fifth round fixtures this evening. Leicester City face Birmingham City, Sheffield Wednesday host holders Manchester City and Tottenham take on Norwich City. FA Cup fifth round results and fixtures Monday: Portsmouth 0 Arsenal 2
Last night: Chelsea 2 Liverpool 0; Reading 1 Sheffield United 2 (AET); West Bromwich Albion 2 Newcastle United 3
Tonight: Leicester City vs. Birmingham City (7.45pm, live on Facebook); Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City (7.45pm, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer); Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City (7.45pm, live on BBC iPlayer)
Tomorrow: Derby County vs. Manchester United (7.45pm, live on BT Sport)
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise, balanced take on the week’s news - try The Week magazine. Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 4. Southgate backs Pickford Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford came in for some criticism after his error led to Manchester United’s goal in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Goodison, but despite the mistake the England No.1 has been backed by national team boss Gareth Southgate. Three Lions head coach Southgate said: “His performances for us throughout have been outstanding. I think he has been a key part of some big results we have had. I think that is clear to everybody but in goal, if you are the England goalkeeper, you are under the spotlight. I am expecting him to bounce back. “The weekend goal is one he would want to do better with but then he had some outstanding saves at the end of the game. That is the life of a goalkeeper.” Southgate is confident Kane and Rashford will be fit for Euro 2020 5. Equal prize money in The Hundred The men’s and women’s teams in The Hundred will have an equal share of prize money for this summer’s inaugural competition which starts in July. Sky Sports reports that the total prize budget of £600,000 will be split 50-50 between the men’s and women’s tournaments and is a “step towards the ECB's long-term commitment to make cricket a gender-balanced sport”. 6. F1 teams object to FIA Ferrari settlement Seven Formula 1 teams have issued a joint statement expressing their “shock and surprise” to the FIA’s confidential “settlement” with Ferrari over their 2019-spec power unit. Skip advert Signed by McLaren, Mercedes, Racing Point, Red Bull, Renault, Alpha Tauri and Williams, the joint statement said: “We, the undersigned teams, were surprised and shocked by the FIA’s statement of Friday 28 February regarding the conclusion of its investigation into the Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 Power Unit. “An international sporting regulator has the responsibility to act with the highest standards of governance, integrity and transparency. After months of investigations that were undertaken by the FIA only following queries raised by other teams, we strongly object to the FIA reaching a confidential settlement agreement with Ferrari to conclude this matter. “Therefore, we hereby state publicly our shared commitment to pursue full and proper disclosure in this matter, to ensure that our sport treats all competitors fairly and equally. “We do so on behalf of the fans, the participants and the stakeholders of Formula One. In addition, we reserve our rights to seek legal redress, within the FIA’s due process and before the competent courts.” 7. Vettel admits he could leave Ferrari Sebastian Vettel maintains that he wants to continue driving in Formula 1 but the German admits it could be away from Ferrari.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--F1: Sebastian Vettel wants to keep racing but it may not be at Ferrari

Sebastian Vettel maintains that he wants to continue driving in Formula 1 but the German admits it could be away from Ferrari .
The 32-year-old , a four-time world champion from his days at Red Bull , is out of contract at the end of the 2020 season and there have been question marks about his future in the sport .
In an interview with German publication Sport Bild , Vettel said : “ There are no signs and no reason why I couldn ’ t or shouldn ’ t continue .
“ I had a little bit of time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make up my mind that I definitely want it [ to continue ] and that I still enjoy it.
” Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has revealed that preliminary talks have started with the driver .
Speaking to Italian newspaper La Repubblica , Binotto said : “ We have started to discuss it with Seb .
They are preliminary talks , but soon we will get to the point where we evaluate what is best for both of us .
I believe and hope that an agreement can be reached very quickly.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vettel says he could follow in the footsteps of Michael Schumacher and drive for another team .
When asked if that was possible , he said : “ It is .
I think there is even an example of a German who went somewhere else after Ferrari , if I remember correctly.
” Seven F1 teams have issued a joint statement expressing their “ shock and surprise ” to the FIA ’ s confidential “ settlement ” with Ferrari over their 2019-spec power unit .
Signed by McLaren , Mercedes , Racing Point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tauri and Williams , the joint statement said : “ We , the undersigned teams , were surprised and shocked by the FIA ’ s statement of Friday 28 February regarding the conclusion of its investigation into the Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 Power Unit .
“ An international sporting regulator has the responsibility to act with the highest standards of governance , integrity and transparency .
“ After months of investigations that were undertaken by the FIA only following queries raised by other teams , we strongly object to the FIA reaching a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this matter .
“ Therefore , we hereby state publicly our shared commitment to pursue full and proper disclosure in this matter , to ensure that our sport treats all competitors fairly and equally .
“ We do so on behalf of the fans , the participants and the stakeholders of Formula One .
In addition , we reserve our rights to seek legal redress , within the FIA ’ s due process and before the competent courts.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Following the conclusion of pre-season testing , Ferrari and Red Bull have suggested that Mercedes will be favourites ahead of the first race in Australia on 15 March .
However , reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton says the Silver Arrows are not listening to what their rivals are saying .
Hamilton , who is aiming to equal Michael Schumacher ’ s record of seven championships , told Sky Sports : “ I don ’ t pay attention to anyone else through testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job and I have no idea what other people have been saying .
“ I ’ ve been here a long , long time so I ’ m aware of people bigging us up and talking themselves down so that they can potentially overachieve unexpectedly or whatever .
“ It doesn ’ t make a difference .
Some people think that it ’ s a psychological battle but it ’ s really not .
Only for the weak-minded maybe .
But it doesn ’ t affect us whatsoever.
” Formula One could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country that denies access to any team due to # coronavirus restrictions , motorsport managing director Ross Brawn said https : //t.co/F08dYr0190 pic.twitter.com/ukknNd85qq F1 motorsport managing director Ross Brawn has warned that if any team is unable to compete in a grand prix because of coronavirus restrictions then the race will not go ahead .
With Italy one of the countries most affected by the outbreak , Reuters reports that some countries have imposed “ quarantine periods on anyone who has come from or been in Italy during a two-week period prior to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Ferrari ’ s participation in some races , but Brawn said : “ If a team is prevented from entering a country we can ’ t have a race .
Not a Formula 1 world championship race , anyway , because that would be unfair .
“ Obviously if a team makes its own choice not to go to a race , that ’ s their decision .
But where a team is prevented from going to a race because of a decision of the country then it ’ s difficult to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Vettel admits he could leave Ferrari
Sebastian Vettel maintains that he wants to continue driving in Formula 1 but the German admits it could be away from Ferrari.
The 32-year-old, a four-time world champion from his days at Red Bull, is out of contract at the end of the 2020 season and there have been question marks about his future in the sport.
In an interview with German publication Sport Bild, Vettel said: “There are no signs and no reason why I couldn’t or shouldn’t continue.
“I had a little bit of time in the winter and I used it to make up my mind that I definitely want it [to continue] and that I still enjoy it.”
Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has revealed that preliminary talks have started with the driver.
Speaking to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Binotto said: “We have started to discuss it with Seb. They are preliminary talks, but soon we will get to the point where we evaluate what is best for both of us. I believe and hope that an agreement can be reached very quickly.”
Despite Binotto’s recent comments Vettel says he could follow in the footsteps of Michael Schumacher and drive for another team.
When asked if that was possible, he said: “It is. I think there is even an example of a German who went somewhere else after Ferrari, if I remember correctly.”
F1 teams object to FIA Ferrari settlement
Seven F1 teams have issued a joint statement expressing their “shock and surprise” to the FIA’s confidential “settlement” with Ferrari over their 2019-spec power unit.
Signed by McLaren, Mercedes, Racing Point, Red Bull, Renault, Alpha Tauri and Williams, the joint statement said: “We, the undersigned teams, were surprised and shocked by the FIA’s statement of Friday 28 February regarding the conclusion of its investigation into the Scuderia Ferrari Formula 1 Power Unit.
“An international sporting regulator has the responsibility to act with the highest standards of governance, integrity and transparency.
“After months of investigations that were undertaken by the FIA only following queries raised by other teams, we strongly object to the FIA reaching a confidential settlement agreement with Ferrari to conclude this matter.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--The role of home secretary: a poisoned chalice?

Home Secretary Priti Patel is fighting for political survival after being accused of bullying staff at a total of three government departments .
The latest allegations to surface relate to her time as boss at the Department for International Development , between 2016 and 2017 .
Earlier this week , it emerged that a former aide to Patel at the Department for Work and Pensions received a £25,000 payout from the government after attempting suicide following alleged “ unprovoked aggression ” and bullying by the Tory minister .
And Philip Rutnam , the Home Office ’ s most senior civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patel waged a “ vicious and orchestrated ” campaign against him .
The Cabinet Office has pledged to investigate whether the home secretary has breached the ministerial code .
Patel denies all the allegations against her .
The Home Office has earned a reputation as something of a graveyard for ministerial careers , with the notable exception of Theresa May .
Here are some of the figures at the centre of past debacles at the department .
Blunkett resigned as home secretary in 2004 after an email exchange emerged that showed he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former lover ’ s nanny , Leoncia Casalme .
An email from his office to immigration officials processing the application read : “ No favours but slightly quicker.
” Blunkett denied allegations that he had abused his position to fast-track Casalme ’ s application to stay in Britain , but his resignation became inevitable after a second set of visa claims emerged .
The Home Office chief was reported to have had a another visa fast-tracked so that Casalme could visit her sister in Austria for Christmas in 2002 , although the Austrian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister had intervened in the case .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Clarke was brought in as Blunkett ’ s replacement but was sacked as home secretary in 2006 , in a major reshuffle following heavy losses for the Labour Party in local elections .
The then-home secretary had presided over a scandal involving more than 1,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being considered for deportation .
Clarke admitted that 79 of the freed offenders had originally been imprisoned “ for more serious offences , of which 13 were for murder , manslaughter , rape or child sex offences ” .
Smith was Tony Blair ’ s third home secretary to fall to the Home Office curse , resigning in 2009 following an embarrassing row over parliamentary expenses .
The minister was left red-faced after it emerged that she had made an expense claim to the Commons for two pornographic films , added to her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richard Timney , was forced to make a public apology outside their family home for ordering the two pay-per-view adult films , at a cost of £5 each , while his wife was out .
It was the second scandal to hit Smith , who had been criticised for designating her sister ’ s home in London as her main residence , allowing her to claim £116,000 in expenses on the property she shared with Timney and their two sons in her constituency town of Redditch , in Worcestershire .
She went on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general election .
The following year , Smith told The Telegraph that her husband had “ not surprisingly ” avoided porn since the scandal .
“ He ’ s told me he hasn ’ t and he has no reason not to tell me the truth.
” The couple announced this January that they have split up .
Rudd resigned in 2018 over her role in the Windrush scandal , which saw the deportation of at least 83 people who had the right to remain in the UK .
As well as those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number were wrongly detained , lost their jobs or homes , or were denied benefits or medical care to which they were entitled .
Rudd denied that she was aware of deportation targets , but The Guardian later revealed that Rudd had sent a letter to then prime minister May in 2017 saying that she intended to increase deportations by 10 % .
Prior to her resignation , Rudd insisted : “ I have not approved or seen or cleared any targets for removals looking ahead , and looking ahead I will not @ @ @ @ @

Home Secretary Priti Patel is fighting for political survival after being accused of bullying staff at a total of three government departments.
The latest allegations to surface relate to her time as boss at the Department for International Development, between 2016 and 2017.
Earlier this week, it emerged that a former aide to Patel at the Department for Work and Pensions received a £25,000 payout from the government after attempting suicide following alleged “unprovoked aggression” and bullying by the Tory minister.
And Philip Rutnam, the Home Office’s most senior civil servant, resigned last week claiming that Patel waged a “vicious and orchestrated” campaign against him.
The Cabinet Office has pledged to investigate whether the home secretary has breached the ministerial code. Patel denies all the allegations against her.
The Home Office has earned a reputation as something of a graveyard for ministerial careers, with the notable exception of Theresa May. Here are some of the figures at the centre of past debacles at the department.
David Blunkett
Blunkett resigned as home secretary in 2004 after an email exchange emerged that showed he had intervened in the visa application of his former lover’s nanny, Leoncia Casalme.
An email from his office to immigration officials processing the application read: “No favours but slightly quicker.”
Blunkett denied allegations that he had abused his position to fast-track Casalme’s application to stay in Britain, but his resignation became inevitable after a second set of visa claims emerged.
The Home Office chief was reported to have had a another visa fast-tracked so that Casalme could visit her sister in Austria for Christmas in 2002, although the Austrian ambassador to Britain denied that the Labour minister had intervened in the case.
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Charles Clarke
Clarke was brought in as Blunkett’s replacement but was sacked as home secretary in 2006, in a major reshuffle following heavy losses for the Labour Party in local elections.
The then-home secretary had presided over a scandal involving more than 1,000 foreign prisoners, who were freed without being considered for deportation. Clarke admitted that 79 of the freed offenders had originally been imprisoned “for more serious offences, of which 13 were for murder, manslaughter, rape or child sex offences”.
Jacqui Smith
Smith was Tony Blair’s third home secretary to fall to the Home Office curse, resigning in 2009 following an embarrassing row over parliamentary expenses.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--England boss Gareth Southgate is confident Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford will be fit for Euro 2020

England head coach Gareth Southgate says injured attacking duo Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford could return to full fitness ahead of this summer ’ s Uefa European Championship .
Tottenham striker Kane has been out of action since New Year ’ s Day with a hamstring tear while Manchester United ’ s Rashford suffered a back injury in mid-January .
Both players had been major doubts for Euro 2020 , but Southgate is confident they will line up at this summer ’ s tournament .
When asked about captain Kane , Southgate told Sky Sports : “ As far as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schedule , with all the information that we ’ ve had we know that he is progressing well .
“ He ’ ll give himself the best chance of being fit by following everything to the absolute letter .
I am not surprised by that news and of course it is good to hear.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Club football is the first priority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Man Utd star , and Kane , must make a return to club football the first priority .
The Three Lions boss added : “ [ I am ] realistic , really .
Harry and Marcus Rashford have both had serious injuries , they are both long-term injuries , but both of them will do everything within their powers to be fit and ready for us in the summer .
“ The first priority for both of them is to get back playing for their clubs , they are players of Manchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All being well they will be available for us in the summer .
“ I know that both of them want to affect their club ’ s season and the end of this season .
“ They are both optimistic and both are very focused on their recovery .
It ’ s frustrating for any player to have long-term injuries .
Both clubs are pushing for the top four so they are missing big games , big European ties they are missing .
“ We have to make sure for both it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fit for us , they have long careers ahead of them as well.
” Foden to get call up ?
With Kane and Rashford still on the sidelines , the Daily Mirror reports that Southgate is likely to call up Everton ’ s Dominic Calvert-Lewin for this month ’ s international friendlies against Italy and Denmark .
The Guardian says that another player who could feature in the senior squad this month is Manchester City ’ s Phil Foden .
The 19-year-old midfielder was in superb form as City beat Aston Villa 2-1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
When asked about the City starlet , Southgate said : “ The door ’ s open for everybody .
We ’ ve got 70 English players in the league and when they ’ re of the quality of a player like Phil then of course the door ’ s open.
” Southgate also backed under-fire goalkeeper Jordan Pickford .
The Everton stopper made a mistake against Manchester United at the weekend and has been subject to criticism by pundits .
However , Southgate praised his No.1 and said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outstanding .
I think he has been a key part of some big results we have had .
“ I think that is clear to everybody but in goal , if you are the England goalkeeper , you are under the spotlight .
I am expecting him to bounce back .
“ The weekend goal is one he would want to do better with but then he had some outstanding saves at the end of the game .
That is the life of a goalkeeper.
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England head coach Gareth Southgate says injured attacking duo Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford could return to full fitness ahead of this summer’s Uefa European Championship.
Tottenham striker Kane has been out of action since New Year’s Day with a hamstring tear while Manchester United’s Rashford suffered a back injury in mid-January.
Both players had been major doubts for Euro 2020, but Southgate is confident they will line up at this summer’s tournament.
When asked about captain Kane, Southgate told Sky Sports: “As far as I am concerned he’s on schedule, with all the information that we’ve had we know that he is progressing well.
“He’ll give himself the best chance of being fit by following everything to the absolute letter. I am not surprised by that news and of course it is good to hear.”
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Club football is the first priority
As for Rashford, Southgate says that the Man Utd star, and Kane, must make a return to club football the first priority.
The Three Lions boss added: “[I am] realistic, really. Harry and Marcus Rashford have both had serious injuries, they are both long-term injuries, but both of them will do everything within their powers to be fit and ready for us in the summer.
“The first priority for both of them is to get back playing for their clubs, they are players of Manchester United and Tottenham first and foremost. All being well they will be available for us in the summer.
“I know that both of them want to affect their club’s season and the end of this season.
“They are both optimistic and both are very focused on their recovery. It’s frustrating for any player to have long-term injuries. Both clubs are pushing for the top four so they are missing big games, big European ties they are missing.
“We have to make sure for both it’s not a case of just being fit for us, they have long careers ahead of them as well.”
Foden to get call up?
With Kane and Rashford still on the sidelines, the Daily Mirror reports that Southgate is likely to call up Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin for this month’s international friendlies against Italy and Denmark.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Wednesday 4 Mar 2020

A former heavyweight boxer who thwarted an attempt to kidnap Princess Anne is selling the George Medal that he was @ @ @ @ @ .
Ronnie Russell , now 72 , says he feels like he is “ betraying @ @ @ @ @ has had several strokes and does not want his family to be left with his @ @ @ @ @ from Bristol , was shot at after punching loner Ian Ball twice in the head @ @ @ @ @ the Princess hostage at gunpoint in central London in March 1974 .

Boxer who saved Princess sells medal
A former heavyweight boxer who thwarted an attempt to kidnap Princess Anne is selling the George Medal that he was awarded for his brave actions. Ronnie Russell, now 72, says he feels like he is “betraying” the Royal Family but has had several strokes and does not want his family to be left with his funeral expenses. Russell, from Bristol, was shot at after punching loner Ian Ball twice in the head as he tried to take the Princess hostage at gunpoint in central London in March 1974.


theweekuk--2020-03-04--FA Cup reactions: Lampard impressed by Chelsea display as Klopp’s Liverpool lose again

First Atlético Madrid , then Watford and now Chelsea .
Liverpool ’ s losing streak is now three games out of four as the Reds were beaten 2-0 by the Blues at a swinging Stamford Bridge last night .
Goals from Willian and Ross Barkley dumped Liverpool out of the cup and added to Jurgen Klopp ’ s woes .
It ’ s not a crisis for Klopp , but the well-oiled Liverpool machine is spluttering and for the first time in a year the German will have to carry out a maintenance check .
With a 22-point lead in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the title , but of more immediate concern is next week ’ s return leg against Atletico in the last 16 of the Champions League .
The holders were beaten 1-0 in Madrid on 18 February and they ’ ll need to rediscover their sharpness and swagger before next Wednesday ’ s second leg at Anfield .
Klopp was questioned about the Atletico tie in his post-match press conference last night , but he brushed away such thoughts .
“ We are not interested in Atletico Madrid , it is all about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Saturday ’ s Premier league match .
“ They are fighting with all they have and they did really well against Chelsea.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Video of Klopp 's Reaction : 'We made two massive mistakes around the goals ' | Chelsea vs Liverpool Asked what had gone wrong at Stamford Bridge , Klopp said : “ A lot of parts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know we have to improve , it is not about destiny , not about not clicking here or there , it is all about us and we have to take it in the right way .
“ Nobody has to feel sorry for us , we will win football games and that is what we want to do on Saturday.
” Chelsea had also suffered a setback in their first leg of the Champions League last-16 clash , losing 3-0 at home to Bayern Munich .
Manager Frank Lampard had admitted his side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasion , and so he was delighted with the way his side had dominated Liverpool .
Barkley over the moon with goal “ An impressive performance , ” Lampard declared .
“ It ’ s hard to be comprehensive against Liverpool because they remain in the game because of the team they are .
“ But we can ’ t ask for any more .
The spirit , the work ethic , the quality , you ’ ve got to defend really well to keep a clean sheet against them.
” No one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the former Everton midfielder who remains a dedicated Toffees supporter .
“ Scoring against Liverpool is massive for me , ” said the Scouser .
“ As an Everton fan , it ’ s always a dream to score against them .
It was brilliant , a massive result for the lads.
” • Tonight : Leicester City vs. Birmingham City ( 7.45pm , live on Facebook ) ; Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City ( 7.45pm , live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer ) ; Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mako Vunipola virus shock for England rugby and a howler by ‘ Adriaaaan ’ gifts Chelsea FA Cup win ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

FA Cup fifth round Chelsea 2 Liverpool 0
First Atlético Madrid, then Watford and now Chelsea. Liverpool’s losing streak is now three games out of four as the Reds were beaten 2-0 by the Blues at a swinging Stamford Bridge last night.
Goals from Willian and Ross Barkley dumped Liverpool out of the cup and added to Jurgen Klopp’s woes.
It’s not a crisis for Klopp, but the well-oiled Liverpool machine is spluttering and for the first time in a year the German will have to carry out a maintenance check.
With a 22-point lead in the Premier League Liverpool are almost guaranteed of the title, but of more immediate concern is next week’s return leg against Atletico in the last 16 of the Champions League.
The holders were beaten 1-0 in Madrid on 18 February and they’ll need to rediscover their sharpness and swagger before next Wednesday’s second leg at Anfield.
Klopp was questioned about the Atletico tie in his post-match press conference last night, but he brushed away such thoughts.
“We are not interested in Atletico Madrid, it is all about Bournemouth,” he said, referring to Saturday’s Premier league match. “They are fighting with all they have and they did really well against Chelsea.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise, balanced take on the week’s news - try The Week magazine. Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Don’t panic
Asked what had gone wrong at Stamford Bridge, Klopp said: “A lot of parts of the performance I really liked. We know we have to improve, it is not about destiny, not about not clicking here or there, it is all about us and we have to take it in the right way.
“Nobody has to feel sorry for us, we will win football games and that is what we want to do on Saturday.”
Chelsea had also suffered a setback in their first leg of the Champions League last-16 clash, losing 3-0 at home to Bayern Munich.
Manager Frank Lampard had admitted his side had been “outclassed” on that occasion, and so he was delighted with the way his side had dominated Liverpool.
Barkley over the moon with goal
“An impressive performance,” Lampard declared. “It’s hard to be comprehensive against Liverpool because they remain in the game because of the team they are.
“But we can’t ask for any more. The spirit, the work ethic, the quality, you’ve got to defend really well to keep a clean sheet against them.”
No one was more ecstatic than goalscorer Ross Barkley, the former Everton midfielder who remains a dedicated Toffees supporter.
“Scoring against Liverpool is massive for me,” said the Scouser. “As an Everton fan, it’s always a dream to score against them. It was brilliant, a massive result for the lads.”
FA Cup fifth round results and fixtures
Monday: Portsmouth 0 Arsenal 2
Last night: Chelsea 2 Liverpool 0; Reading 1 Sheffield United 2 (AET); West Bromwich Albion 2 Newcastle United 3
Tonight: Leicester City vs. Birmingham City (7.45pm, live on Facebook); Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City (7.45pm, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer); Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City (7.45pm, live on BBC iPlayer)
Tomorrow: Derby County vs. Manchester United (7.45pm, live on BT Sport)
Today’s back pages
Mako Vunipola virus shock for England rugby and a howler by ‘Adriaaaan’ gifts Chelsea FA Cup win
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theweekuk--2020-03-04--Today’s back pages: Mako Vunipola virus shock for England rugby and a howler by ‘Adriaaaan’ gifts Ch

Today’s back pages: Mako Vunipola virus shock for England rugby and a howler by ‘Adriaaaan’ gifts Chelsea FA Cup win

“ Mako virus shock ” is the headline on the back page of today ’ s Daily Express , which is one of several newspapers to relay the latest misfortune to befall England rugby player Mako Vunipola .
The Saracens star has been stood down from the England squad for this Saturday ’ s Six Nations clash with Wales and is self-isolating after he travelled through Hong Kong last weekend , which is considered a hotspot for coronavirus .
Vunipola was on his way back from his native Tonga , where he had gone for personal reasons , an enforced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s game against Ireland last month .
An eye injury forced him out of the Six Nations opener against France , and this latest episode is another blow in a disrupted international campaign for the prop .
The Times also covers the story but says that “ in a bizarre twist ” , Vunipola will be considered for selection for Saracens in their Premiership match against Leicester this Saturday .
The paper says that “ their medical team assessed the prop and decided that he was fit enough to join them after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Guardian also uses the “ bizarre ” word in describing the situation , adding that his presence at Saracens is “ starkly at odds over governmental guidelines for anyone who may have been exposed to coronavirus sufferers ” .
The NHS recommends that anyone who could be infected self-isolates for 14 days .
Coronavirus : Six Nations matches to go ahead as scheduled ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2-0 defeat of Liverpool in the fifth round of the FA Cup dominates the back pages and they won ’ t make pleasant reading for Adrian .
The Reds goalkeeper gifted Chelsea an early goal when he failed to deal with an innocuous long-range strike from Willian .
“ Adriaaaan ” screams the Daily Mirror , above a picture of the Brazilian fumbling the ball into his own net .
The Mirror describes the mistake as a “ calamity ” , while the Daily Star goes for “ howler ” .
The Times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s sudden slump in form .
“ Liverpool losing it ” , the paper proclaims , pointing out that Jurgen Klopp ’ s boys have lost three of their last four matches , including the 3-0 hammering at the hands of Watford on Saturday that ended their unbeaten Premier League season .
The Guardian finds space on its back page to laud Newcastle United ’ s 3-2 victory against West Bromwich Albion , a win that takes the Magpies into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2006 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Toon ” , the paper says the two goals from Miguel Almiron were crucial in Newcastle ’ s win .
The Daily Express also name checks the Magpies ’ s victory on its back page , as it does Sheffield United ’ s 2-1 victory at Reading under the headline “ Sharp sticks knife into Royals ” , a reference to the extra-time winner from Blades striker Billy Sharp .
• Tonight : Leicester City vs. Birmingham City ( 7.45pm , live on Facebook ) ; Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City ( 7.45pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iPlayer ) ; Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City ( 7.45pm , live on BBC iPlayer ) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Vunipola virus confusion
“Mako virus shock” is the headline on the back page of today’s Daily Express, which is one of several newspapers to relay the latest misfortune to befall England rugby player Mako Vunipola.
The Saracens star has been stood down from the England squad for this Saturday’s Six Nations clash with Wales and is self-isolating after he travelled through Hong Kong last weekend, which is considered a hotspot for coronavirus.
Vunipola was on his way back from his native Tonga, where he had gone for personal reasons, an enforced absence that caused him to miss England’s game against Ireland last month.
An eye injury forced him out of the Six Nations opener against France, and this latest episode is another blow in a disrupted international campaign for the prop.
The Times also covers the story but says that “in a bizarre twist”, Vunipola will be considered for selection for Saracens in their Premiership match against Leicester this Saturday.
The paper says that “their medical team assessed the prop and decided that he was fit enough to join them after showing no symptoms of the virus”.
The Guardian also uses the “bizarre” word in describing the situation, adding that his presence at Saracens is “starkly at odds over governmental guidelines for anyone who may have been exposed to coronavirus sufferers”.
The NHS recommends that anyone who could be infected self-isolates for 14 days.
Coronavirus: Six Nations matches to go ahead as scheduled
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Reds feeling the Blues
Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat of Liverpool in the fifth round of the FA Cup dominates the back pages and they won’t make pleasant reading for Adrian.
The Reds goalkeeper gifted Chelsea an early goal when he failed to deal with an innocuous long-range strike from Willian.
“Adriaaaan” screams the Daily Mirror, above a picture of the Brazilian fumbling the ball into his own net. The Mirror describes the mistake as a “calamity”, while the Daily Star goes for “howler”.
The Times is more focused on the Reds’s sudden slump in form. “Liverpool losing it”, the paper proclaims, pointing out that Jurgen Klopp’s boys have lost three of their last four matches, including the 3-0 hammering at the hands of Watford on Saturday that ended their unbeaten Premier League season.
Toon hit the high notes
The Guardian finds space on its back page to laud Newcastle United’s 3-2 victory against West Bromwich Albion, a win that takes the Magpies into the quarter-finals of the FA Cup for the first time since 2006.
Under the headline, “Top of Toon”, the paper says the two goals from Miguel Almiron were crucial in Newcastle’s win.
The Daily Express also name checks the Magpies’s victory on its back page, as it does Sheffield United’s 2-1 victory at Reading under the headline “Sharp sticks knife into Royals”, a reference to the extra-time winner from Blades striker Billy Sharp.
FA Cup fifth round results and fixtures
Monday: Portsmouth 0 Arsenal 2
Last night: Chelsea 2 Liverpool 0; Reading 1 Sheffield United 2 (AET); West Bromwich Albion 2 Newcastle United 3
Tonight: Leicester City vs. Birmingham City (7.45pm, live on Facebook); Sheffield Wednesday vs. Manchester City (7.45pm, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer); Tottenham Hotspur vs. Norwich City (7.45pm, live on BBC iPlayer)
Tomorrow: Derby County vs. Manchester United (7.45pm, live on BT Sport)
Today’s sport headlines
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theweekuk--2020-03-04--New bullying allegations emerge against Priti Patel

Priti Patel is facing fresh bullying allegations after a third senior civil servant said they were mistreated by the controversial politician when she was the secretary of state for international development .
The Guardian quotes sources claiming that the home secretary “ harassed and belittled ” staff in her private office in 2017 .
The allegations have been denied by sources close to Patel , who is already under pressure from allegations that she bullied her permanent secretary at the Home Office and an aide in the Department for Work and Pensions .
However , they will increase pressure on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ step down .
BBC ’ s Newsnight has reported that the Cabinet Office was aware of the latest claims claims and a witness is willing to give evidence at Rutnam ’ s employment tribunal .
Patel is accused of humiliating civil servants in front of others , of putting heavy pressure in emails and of creating a general sense that “ everyone is hopeless ” .
The claims were described to the programme as similar to those levelled against Patel by Philip Rutnam , who resigned as Home Office permanent secretary on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resignation on Saturday , Rutnam alleged that Patel ’ s conduct had included “ swearing , belittling people , making unreasonable and repeated demands ” .
The former permanent secretary also said he would be suing the Home Office for constructive dismissal .
A spokesperson for Patel said : “ The home secretary completely rejects all allegations made against her.
” A Tory source defended the embattled politician , saying : “ What we are seeing is a concerted effort by certain sections of the civil service to undermine a home secretary trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and immigration .
“ It is deeply disturbing that dark forces are trying to influence the findings of a Cabinet Office inquiry.
” Controversy has followed Patel throughout her political career .
In 2017 , she resigned from the cabinet after it emerged that she had scheduled meetings with Israeli officials while on holiday but had failed to officially inform the Foreign Office .
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theweekuk--2020-03-04--US election 2020: Joe Biden bounces back on Super Tuesday

Joe Biden was the big winner on Super Tuesday , claiming eight of the 14 states that voted to pick a Democratic White House candidate .
The former US vice-president has swept Massachusetts , Minnesota , Oklahoma , Arkansas , Alabama , Tennessee , North Carolina and Virginia .
“ We are very much alive , ” he told supporters in Los Angeles .
“ Make no mistake about it , this campaign will send Donald Trump packing.
” The BBC says Biden “ appears to have won convincingly among the type of suburban voters who pollsters say have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Bernie Sanders won the biggest prize of the night , California , and three other states .
He told his own supporters : “ We 're taking on the political establishment .
You can not beat Trump with the same-old , same-old kind of politics.
” It was a disappointing night for Michael Bloomberg .
The billionaire spent more than half a billion dollars of his own money but could only pick up a consolation win in American Samoa .
Elizabeth Warren , once the frontrunner , also had a tough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Biden in her home state of Massachusetts .
The Guardian says she has suffered “ crushing losses ” .
“ Looking ahead , this race is shaping up as two clear choices for Democratic primary voters , ” attorney Raul A. Reyes told CNN .
“ Sanders is offering a reshaping of what he sees as our country 's broken and inequitable institutions .
Biden is promising a return to an era when lawmakers on both sides of the aisle could work together .
The question for voters is whether they want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taking to Twitter , Donald Trump mocked Bloomberg and Warren .
“ The biggest loser tonight , by far , is Mini Mike Bloomberg , ” he wrote .
“ $ 700 million washed down the drain , and he got nothing for it but the nickname Mini Mike , and the complete destruction of his reputation .
Way to go Mike !
” Turning his attention to Warren , he said : “ She didn ’ t even come close to winning her home state of Massachusetts .
Well , now she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have a nice cold beer !
” Meanwhile , the results put the Democrats at a clear crossroads : do voters opt for the moderate pragmatism of Biden or the progressive policies of Bernie Sanders .
The successful candidate will need to secure at least 1,991 to secure the party 's nomination .
Whichever of the pair wins , the next White House election is now set to be contested between two white men in their seventies .
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theweekuk--2020-03-04--China firm says ‘Batman’ costume protects from coronavirus

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A Chinese company claims it has created a Batman-style suit that uses “bionic design principles” to protect the wearer from catching the coronavirus. Designers say ultraviolet radiation heats up to sterilise the surrounding environment and eliminate the virus before it can reach the wearer. “When we were little, we all dreamed to be a Batman,” they add.
Kid's prank cop call exposes cannabis plants
A five-year-old's prank call to the police inadvertently revealed her mother's stash of 15 cannabis plants. After the young girl’s call, police dispatched officers to her home address. A police spokesman said: "As officers have entered the garage they've found a number of cannabis plants.”
Woman watered plastic plant daily for years
A woman has discovered a plant she's been watering for two years is fake. Caelie Wilkes watered her succulent faithfully every day but made the discovery when she tried to repot the plant. “It's completely plastic,” she wrote on Facebook. “How did I not know this. I feel like these last two years have been a lie.”
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theweekuk--2020-03-03--Support for anti-EU parties ‘doubles in two decades’

The vote share for anti-EU parties has more than doubled in two decades , according to research conducted by academic experts in populism .
The study found that since 1992 , the first year in which there were free and fair elections in every country currently a member of the bloc , combined support for European far-right , far-left and other Eurosceptic parties has surged from 15 % to almost 35 % .
One of the researchers , Matthijs Rooduijn , a political scientist at the University of Amsterdam , said : “ European leaders who support the EU integration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back and be complacent .
Eurosceptic parties are very much thriving and it is unlikely that this is going to change anytime soon.
” The study , published in The Guardian , says there were three spikes in support for Euroscepticism in the period it covered .
Anti-EU sentiment first started climbing in 2005 , due to a sharp Eurosceptic turn taken by Poland ’ s Law and Justice ( PiS ) party .
There was another major rise in 2010 when Hungary ’ s Fidesz – “ the future of Europe ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The third jump came in 2013 , with the emergence of the Five Star Movement ( M5S ) in Italy , followed by the growth in popularity of Alternative fur Deutschland in Germany and Podemos in Spain .
Last month , Marine Le Pen warned the European Union that the eurosceptic movement is now “ very powerful ” and urged EU member states to join forces to “ abandon ” the failing union for a new form of independent “ cooperation ” .
However , several studies have shown that public opinion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become more positive in the last four years .
The Guardian says this trend reflects “ mounting uncertainties caused by the upheaval of Britain ’ s Brexit vote and the election in the US of Donald Trump , who has made no secret of his hostility towards the EU ” .
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The vote share for anti-EU parties has more than doubled in two decades, according to research conducted by academic experts in populism.
The study found that since 1992, the first year in which there were free and fair elections in every country currently a member of the bloc, combined support for European far-right, far-left and other Eurosceptic parties has surged from 15% to almost 35%.
One of the researchers, Matthijs Rooduijn, a political scientist at the University of Amsterdam, said: “European leaders who support the EU integration process can absolutely not afford to sit back and be complacent. Eurosceptic parties are very much thriving and it is unlikely that this is going to change anytime soon.”
The study, published in The Guardian, says there were three spikes in support for Euroscepticism in the period it covered.
Anti-EU sentiment first started climbing in 2005, due to a sharp Eurosceptic turn taken by Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) party. There was another major rise in 2010 when Hungary’s Fidesz – “the future of Europe” - went fully against European integration.
The third jump came in 2013, with the emergence of the Five Star Movement (M5S) in Italy, followed by the growth in popularity of Alternative fur Deutschland in Germany and Podemos in Spain.
Last month, Marine Le Pen warned the European Union that the eurosceptic movement is now “very powerful” and urged EU member states to join forces to “abandon” the failing union for a new form of independent “cooperation”.
However, several studies have shown that public opinion of the EU has, on average, become more positive in the last four years.
The Guardian says this trend reflects “mounting uncertainties caused by the upheaval of Britain’s Brexit vote and the election in the US of Donald Trump, who has made no secret of his hostility towards the EU”.
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theweekuk--2020-03-03--What does the Caroline Flack petition say?

A petition asking for MPs to “ end the harassment and bullying by the British press ” after Caroline Flack ’ s death has been handed in to the government after receiving a wave of support .
More than 850,000 people have signed the petition calling for “ Caroline 's Law , ” which would make media harassment a criminal offence “ not dissimilar to corporate manslaughter ” .
Flack , 40 , was found dead at her home in east London last month .
Her family said she had taken her own life .
The Love Island presenter had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly assaulting her boyfriend , and had been subject to significant scrutiny in the press and on social media .
Her suicide has seen questions raised about the role of the tabloid media in her demise .
“ In the raw , shocked aftermath of the news , many on Twitter – high-profile comedians and entertainers such as Jack Whitehall and Carrie Hope Fletcher , media types with dozens of thousands of followers – are pointing their fingers at the trolls and the tabloids , ” wrote Alice Vincent in The Daily Telegraph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of what happened after Amy Winehouse died , ” Vincent added .
“ How we all flocked to celebrate the woman we had merrily read denigrations of in the press just days and months before.
” Yesterday morning , the 38 Degrees campaign group posted a video on Facebook to say their petition - one of several set up in Flack 's memory - was delivered to the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport .
A government spokesperson said : “ There are established systems in place to regulate the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put a new duty of care on online companies towards their users.
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A petition asking for MPs to “end the harassment and bullying by the British press” after Caroline Flack’s death has been handed in to the government after receiving a wave of support.
More than 850,000 people have signed the petition calling for “Caroline's Law,” which would make media harassment a criminal offence “not dissimilar to corporate manslaughter”.
Flack, 40, was found dead at her home in east London last month. Her family said she had taken her own life.
The Love Island presenter had been due to go on trial for allegedly assaulting her boyfriend, and had been subject to significant scrutiny in the press and on social media.
Her suicide has seen questions raised about the role of the tabloid media in her demise.
“In the raw, shocked aftermath of the news, many on Twitter – high-profile comedians and entertainers such as Jack Whitehall and Carrie Hope Fletcher, media types with dozens of thousands of followers – are pointing their fingers at the trolls and the tabloids,” wrote Alice Vincent in The Daily Telegraph.
“It all feels strangely reminiscent of what happened after Amy Winehouse died,” Vincent added. “How we all flocked to celebrate the woman we had merrily read denigrations of in the press just days and months before.”
Yesterday morning, the 38 Degrees campaign group posted a video on Facebook to say their petition - one of several set up in Flack's memory - was delivered to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
A government spokesperson said: “There are established systems in place to regulate the press and we are developing world-leading laws to put a new duty of care on online companies towards their users.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise, refreshing and balanced take on the week’s news agenda - try The Week magazine. Get your first six issues for £6–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


theweekuk--2020-03-03--Canadian artist Nicolas Ruel: a transformational journey to the heart of the Serengeti

Canadian artist Nicolas Ruel , a fine art photographer based in Montreal , is probably best known for his artworks that use double exposures to create intriguing multi-layered images .
This year , Ruel was one of a handful of artists invited to take part in the Envoy by Four Seasons programme , which aims to connect creative types to a range of diverse cultures , places and experiences to create new , bespoke artworks .
The Week sat down with Ruel to hear how he got on in the Serengeti and how he uses photographs to tell stories .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two ( or more ) moments in time - perhaps past and present .
Was time on your mind with your photography series for Envoy by Four Seasons ?
Double exposure is an in-camera technique which allows me to create unique visual signatures , merging two moments in time into one photograph , a technique I developed in 2007 on a trip to Paris .
With this technique the images are not treated in post-production .
For the Envoy by Four Seasons project , the idea was capturing a moment inspired by being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer is no , time did not exist for me shooting in The Serengeti .
The sun was my watch , I photographed from sunrise to sunset .
You said that working in the Serengeti was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream .
Why did you want to photograph there ?
My fascination with the Maasai people goes back several years .
The wildlife and the landscape in the Serengeti are incredible and it was such an honour to witness them and to be so close , however , I am always more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grateful to the Maasai for making this experience so beautiful and to Four Seasons for setting the backdrop of my visit .
In the past you have often worked in places filled with people - train stations and stadiums - what was it like to be shooting in a part of the world largely barren of people ?
It was a lovely break from the over-stimulation of the urban landscape .
Think New York City versus the meditative plains of the Serengeti .
It was a minimal experience where I could focus on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very much inspired by my subjects - the wildlife and the Maasai .
Many of your long-exposure or multiple exposure works take eight seconds to create .
Why not longer ... or shorter ?
I adapt my exposure to my subject , and in my experience , eight seconds seems to capture an infinite moment in time .
When shooting wildlife , I adapt to the unpredictable , adjusting the speed of exposure .
How has photography changed in the age of the smartphone ?
Are we approaching oversaturation point with photographs ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ photographer .
Technology has allowed us to capture high quality images and edit them with the tap of a finger on a smartphone .
It ’ s a beautiful thing , however , after twenty-four years of practice , I am grateful to be part of a generation that learned their craft with film and was able to witness the transformation from analogue to digital .
Which other photographers , past and present , do you admire ?
I am actually more inspired by cinematography than photography .
I studied film at university @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passion .
Directors such as David Lynch and Wong Kar-wai have inspired me most .
One photographer I really admire is the incredibly talented Andreas Gursky .
He creates subjects from his passions , it ’ s always very personal and “ larger than life ” .
I believe that an artist must dig deep and get very personal in their work .
The more I shoot the more I realise this .
The more personal I get , the better my work , the better the creative translation .
Having shot the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go next ?
I ’ m working on a new series on Versailles to be printed on a 24-karat gold plate for Dior .
It ’ s very inspiring to work with different metals .
I am also working on a Formula 1 project that focuses on the intricate choreography of the pit stop , and of course , the never-ending continuation of a cityscape , and creating new projects and collaborations with amazing teams like Four Seasons .

Canadian artist Nicolas Ruel, a fine art photographer based in Montreal, is probably best known for his artworks that use double exposures to create intriguing multi-layered images.
This year, Ruel was one of a handful of artists invited to take part in the Envoy by Four Seasons programme, which aims to connect creative types to a range of diverse cultures, places and experiences to create new, bespoke artworks.
The Week sat down with Ruel to hear how he got on in the Serengeti and how he uses photographs to tell stories.
Double exposures often give the illusion of two (or more) moments in time - perhaps past and present. Was time on your mind with your photography series for Envoy by Four Seasons?
Double exposure is an in-camera technique which allows me to create unique visual signatures, merging two moments in time into one photograph, a technique I developed in 2007 on a trip to Paris. With this technique the images are not treated in post-production. For the Envoy by Four Seasons project, the idea was capturing a moment inspired by being in the moment. So, the answer is no, time did not exist for me shooting in The Serengeti. The sun was my watch, I photographed from sunrise to sunset.
You said that working in the Serengeti was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Why did you want to photograph there?
My fascination with the Maasai people goes back several years. The wildlife and the landscape in the Serengeti are incredible and it was such an honour to witness them and to be so close, however, I am always more touched by civilizations. I was so grateful to the Maasai for making this experience so beautiful and to Four Seasons for setting the backdrop of my visit.
In the past you have often worked in places filled with people - train stations and stadiums - what was it like to be shooting in a part of the world largely barren of people?
It was a lovely break from the over-stimulation of the urban landscape. Think New York City versus the meditative plains of the Serengeti. It was a minimal experience where I could focus on the beauty of stillness. I was very much inspired by my subjects - the wildlife and the Maasai.
Many of your long-exposure or multiple exposure works take eight seconds to create. Why not longer... or shorter?
I adapt my exposure to my subject, and in my experience, eight seconds seems to capture an infinite moment in time. When shooting wildlife, I adapt to the unpredictable, adjusting the speed of exposure.
How has photography changed in the age of the smartphone? Are we approaching oversaturation point with photographs?
It seems nowadays that everyone is a photographer. Technology has allowed us to capture high quality images and edit them with the tap of a finger on a smartphone. It’s a beautiful thing, however, after twenty-four years of practice, I am grateful to be part of a generation that learned their craft with film and was able to witness the transformation from analogue to digital.
Which other photographers, past and present, do you admire?
I am actually more inspired by cinematography than photography. I studied film at university and so it has always been a passion. Directors such as David Lynch and Wong Kar-wai have inspired me most. One photographer I really admire is the incredibly talented Andreas Gursky. He creates subjects from his passions, it’s always very personal and “larger than life”. I believe that an artist must dig deep and get very personal in their work. The more I shoot the more I realise this. The more personal I get, the better my work, the better the creative translation.
Having shot the Serengeti, where are you hoping to go next?
I’m working on a new series on Versailles to be printed on a 24-karat gold plate for Dior. It’s very inspiring to work with different metals. I am also working on a Formula 1 project that focuses on the intricate choreography of the pit stop, and of course, the never-ending continuation of a cityscape, and creating new projects and collaborations with amazing teams like Four Seasons.
For more, visit fourseasons.com


theweekuk--2020-03-03--Ryanair boss condemns 'lunacy’ and ‘hysteria’ over coronavirus

The boss of Ryanair has condemned what he called “lunacy on social media” and “hysteria” in coverage of the coronavirus.
Speaking to Sky News, Michael O’Leary appealed for a calm and measured approach to the coronavirus outbreak and said “Let's not have irrational panic measures.”
As his airline adjusted its flight schedules, he said the decision to cancel the Ireland-Italy Six Nations rugby match in Dublin this coming weekend was “not sensible or proportionate”.
Earlier this week Ryanair confirmed it was to cut the frequency of services to northern Italy by 25%, after it witnessed a passenger no-show rate of up to 50% for Italy flights.
Ryanair’s share price has lost a quarter of its value since the crisis unfolded. Asked whether he felt investors had over-reacted, O'Leary said: “I suspect so”.
He said of the outbreak: “I'm reasonably optimistic it will be reasonably short-lived - remember we're coming into the spring-summer period in Europe. That itself will help to limit the spread of a flu-like virus.”
Turning to the national conversation over the virus, he said: “We would hope to see some of the hysteria taken out of the coverage of the Covid-19 virus outbreak that we've seen over the last week, more accurate government... and WHO (World Health Organisation) information being communicated and help us to fend off some of the frankly lunacy communicated on social media.”
Airlines are being hit hard by the saga. IAG, the owner of British Airways, and easyJet have been among the carriers cutting capacity in services to and from Italy because of falling demand.
The BBC reports that British Airways is cancelling 216 flights from London to destinations including New York, Italy, France, Austria, Belgium, Germany and Ireland.
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theweekuk--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: who qualifies for statutory sick pay?

A government warning that up to a fifth of the UK ’ s workforce could be forced to stay away from work during the peak of the coronavirus outbreak has triggered concerns about statutory sick pay rights .
Launching the Government ’ s “ battle plan ” for the outbreak , officials said one way to slow the spread of the infection might be for employers to encourage more staff members to work from home as part of a “ population distancing strategy ” .
But the suggestion has drawn criticism from unions .
The i news site says union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will face perilous financial and health risks if they are instructed to self-quarantine ” , with many gig economy and zero-hours contract workers “ facing no other choice but to work if they want to keep afloat ” .
Under UK employment law , workers are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay ( SSP ) so long as they work for an employer , are sick for at least four days in a row and earn an average of at least £118 per week ( £6,136 per year ) .
These rules apply for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but do not apply to self-employed people , as The Sun notes .
SSP is set at £94.25 a week , kicks in on the fourth consecutive day of illness and can be paid for up to 28 weeks .
However , many employers offer better contractual sick pay , with provisions varying from company to company .
Under SSP rules , a sick note is required if the worker takes off more than seven days in a row ( including non-working days ) .
What should coronavirus patients do ?
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need to let your bosses know as soon as possible that you are not able to come in .
The situation is more complicated if you are not actually sick but have been told by a medical expert to self-isolate .
Speaking on the BBC ’ s Today programme on Tuesday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : “ Self-isolating for medical reasons if you ’ re healthy counts as being sick in the [ statutory sick pay ] legislation.
” However , the BBC reports that some employment lawyers disagree with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not eligible for SSP ?
Poverty charity Turn2Us suggests that people who are unable to work as a result of the outbreak should check if they have made enough National Insurance contributions to qualify for New Style Employment and Support Allowance ( ESA ) .
However , workers can not claim ESA if they have more than £16,000 of savings or investments .
Justin Tomlinson , a work and pensions minister , said the current advice for workers with no sick pay who suspect they are infected with the new coronavirus was to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has come under significant criticism for its inefficiency , with payments often taking up to five weeks to come through .
This official advice has been ridiculed by Sue Harris , legal director at the GMB union .
“ For workers , or the self-employed , making a claim for universal credit is laborious and lengthy , ” she said .
“ If the Government is serious about containing the virus , it has to take steps to make sure people are able to self-isolate without the added concern of how they @ @ @ @ @ @