theweekuk--2020-07-30--Quiz of The Week: 25 - 31 July

Quiz of The Week: 25 - 31 July

Britons who jumped at the opportunity to head for some sun in Spain kicked off the week in a panic , rushing to leave the country or face quarantine on their return after the government removed it from its safe-to-travel list .
The hurried decision set the tone for a week in which concern over a second wave grew around the world .
Outbreaks were reported in Germany and Belgium , while further afield the US and Brazil continued to grapple with the pandemic .
In the UK , fears over rising unemployment grew as the government was warned about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in October and the full impact of the pandemic on jobs became clearer .
To find out how closely you ’ ve been paying attention to the latest developments in the pandemic , and other global events , put your knowledge to the test with our Quiz of The Week : Need a reminder of some of the other headlines over the past seven days ?
With the US election edging ever closer , some pundits began to question Donald Trump ’ s commitment to winning a second term , following a string @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s campaign .
Meanwhile , rumours continued to swirl over who presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden would select as his potential vice president .
Social media users “ walked off ” Twitter for 48-hours in protest at the site ’ s response to anti-Semitism , while an independent report into UK policing found that officers have struggled to handle a two-decade rise in “ confrontational protests ” .
Boris Johnson announced that the government is gearing up for a crack at solving Britain ’ s care crisis .
After more than a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister said that his government “ wo n't wait ” to fix the problem of social care that “ every government has flunked for 30 years ” .


theweekuk--2020-07-31--Instant Opinion: Donald Trump ‘doesn’t know what democracy is’

The Week ’ s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media , with excerpts from each .
1 .
Jamelle Bouie in The New York Times on the death of a civil rights icon Trump Doesn ’ t Know What Democracy Is .
John Lewis Embodied It .
“ Just a few hours before Lewis ’ s funeral in Atlanta , President Trump denounced mail-in voting , in one of his now regular attempts to delegitimize the upcoming election .
He also raised the idea of pushing the election back , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Voting ( not Absentee Voting , which is good ) , 2020 will be the most INACCURATE & FRAUDULENT Election in history , ’ he wrote on Twitter .
‘ It will be a great embarrassment to the USA .
Delay the Election until people can properly , securely and safely vote ?
?
’ There ’ s no legal way the president can delay or postpone the election .
Its date is set by state and federal law and moving it would require a herculean political effort .
Trump lacks the patience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t mean his language isn ’ t dangerous .
Trump is sowing chaos .
He ’ s undermining public faith in the election process and building a constituency of supporters who will treat any result short of his re-election as evidence of fraud and misconduct.
” on not assuming Trump is as ‘ dumb as he seems ’ Trump 's tweet about delaying the election is just the beginning of a much more dangerous plan “ The only way to foreclose the possibility of such a Trumpian end-run around democracy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for November ’ s election to be ‘ a massive , cataclysmic earthquake that completely destroys Donald Trump ’ .
‘ It ’ s got to be such an electoral college beatdown that is so severe that people speak of it in harsh tones for 100 years , ’ he said before adding that Trump ’ s suggestion of delaying the election is likely to create a backlash in the form of more voter registrations by people opposed to him .
But Wilson is confident that that such a ‘ beatdown ’ will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ characterise the result as fraudulent : ‘ We ’ re negative-30-plus percent GDP , we ’ ve got 150,000 dead Americans and probably 200,000 by Election Day , we ’ ve got a rampant pandemic that is destroying the health of people in an economic disaster that ’ s destroying their welfare and economic well-being .
And he [ Trump ] is responsible for many of the aspects of those things , so he ’ s paying a price for being a f**k-up.
’ ” 3 .
Devi Sridhar , professor and chair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Edinburgh , in The Guardian The northern lockdown represents government failure .
There is a better way “ More than 4 million people in the north of England woke up on Friday morning to the news that coronavirus restrictions were being reimposed .
This follows the local lockdown in Leicester .
Such measures are entirely predictable and a glimpse of the pattern of lockdown and release that will occur over the coming weeks and months as the government attempts to avoid a second peak in infections .
While it might be an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the infection once it has got out of hand , the government ’ s whack-a-mole approach will slowly strangle the economy , as small businesses collapse under the uncertainty and larger ones have to let people go .
It will also undermine social cohesion , as increasing numbers of people refuse to abide by what they see as capricious , complicated rulings .
To fix this , the government needs to look six to eight months ahead and make a clear plan ...
In short , lockdowns should be a last-resort measure when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing and tracing teams – can no longer suppress the infection sufficiently.
” on dissent in the Commons “ If every party donor were like Stuart Wheeler then British politics would have no funding problem .
But they are not and it does .
Mr Wheeler , who died last week , was generous with his fortune in pursuit of causes he championed but , in his singular and remarkable way , he wanted nothing in return beyond victory for his ideas .
When Mr Wheeler offered £5 million to William Hague ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the strict condition that he should receive no honour , direct influence or favour of any kind .
Few donors , however , have such pure motives .
Most gifts to political parties are offered on the basis that there should be a return .
The exchange is never explicit and very often donors end up disappointed .
But there is no doubt that many donations are offered in the hope that a place in the House of Lords , or some favourable policy , might be forthcoming .
”

The Week’s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media, with excerpts from each.
1. Jamelle Bouie in The New York Times
on the death of a civil rights icon
Trump Doesn’t Know What Democracy Is. John Lewis Embodied It.
“Just a few hours before Lewis’s funeral in Atlanta, President Trump denounced mail-in voting, in one of his now regular attempts to delegitimize the upcoming election. He also raised the idea of pushing the election back, to another date. ‘With Universal Mail-In Voting (not Absentee Voting, which is good), 2020 will be the most INACCURATE & FRAUDULENT Election in history,’ he wrote on Twitter. ‘It will be a great embarrassment to the USA. Delay the Election until people can properly, securely and safely vote??’ There’s no legal way the president can delay or postpone the election. Its date is set by state and federal law and moving it would require a herculean political effort. Trump lacks the patience or capacity to coordinate. But that doesn’t mean his language isn’t dangerous. Trump is sowing chaos. He’s undermining public faith in the election process and building a constituency of supporters who will treat any result short of his re-election as evidence of fraud and misconduct.”
2. Andrew Feinberg in The Independent
on not assuming Trump is as ‘dumb as he seems’
Trump's tweet about delaying the election is just the beginning of a much more dangerous plan
“The only way to foreclose the possibility of such a Trumpian end-run around democracy, Republican consultant Rick Wilson said, is for November’s election to be ‘a massive, cataclysmic earthquake that completely destroys Donald Trump’. ‘It’s got to be such an electoral college beatdown that is so severe that people speak of it in harsh tones for 100 years,’ he said before adding that Trump’s suggestion of delaying the election is likely to create a backlash in the form of more voter registrations by people opposed to him. But Wilson is confident that that such a ‘beatdown’ will occur and will preclude any attempt to characterise the result as fraudulent: ‘We’re negative-30-plus percent GDP, we’ve got 150,000 dead Americans and probably 200,000 by Election Day, we’ve got a rampant pandemic that is destroying the health of people in an economic disaster that’s destroying their welfare and economic well-being. And he [Trump] is responsible for many of the aspects of those things, so he’s paying a price for being a f**k-up.’”
3. Devi Sridhar, professor and chair of global public health at the University of Edinburgh, in The Guardian
on the government’s late night lockdown
The northern lockdown represents government failure. There is a better way
“More than 4 million people in the north of England woke up on Friday morning to the news that coronavirus restrictions were being reimposed. This follows the local lockdown in Leicester. Such measures are entirely predictable and a glimpse of the pattern of lockdown and release that will occur over the coming weeks and months as the government attempts to avoid a second peak in infections. While it might be an effective way to stop the spread of the infection once it has got out of hand, the government’s whack-a-mole approach will slowly strangle the economy, as small businesses collapse under the uncertainty and larger ones have to let people go. It will also undermine social cohesion, as increasing numbers of people refuse to abide by what they see as capricious, complicated rulings. To fix this, the government needs to look six to eight months ahead and make a clear plan... In short, lockdowns should be a last-resort measure when the frontline outbreak responders – the local testing and tracing teams – can no longer suppress the infection sufficiently.”
4. Katy Balls in The Spectator
on dissent in the Commons
MPs are starting to question the local lockdown strategy
“Boris Johnson’s policy of local lockdowns will no doubt come under increased scrutiny after new restrictions were imposed on Greater Manchester and parts of East Lancashire and West Yorkshire. Labour politicians have been quick to criticise the short notice of the overnight announcement while local residents have complained of confusion over the changes. It comes at a time of growing unease among MPs about the local lockdown strategy itself. While the plan to go for local lockdowns as a way of avoiding a second national lockdown has been largely welcomed by the public, some believe that sentiment could change quickly – when voters find themselves placed in one. ‘It’s like public support for tax rises,’ says one Tory MP. ‘People say they back them because they don’t think they’ll be the ones paying. People support local lockdowns until they are the ones in it.’”
5. Philip Collins in The Times
on capping donations to improve democracy
Big money politics is ripe for funding reform
“If every party donor were like Stuart Wheeler then British politics would have no funding problem. But they are not and it does. Mr Wheeler, who died last week, was generous with his fortune in pursuit of causes he championed but, in his singular and remarkable way, he wanted nothing in return beyond victory for his ideas. When Mr Wheeler offered £5 million to William Hague’s Conservative Party in 2001 it was on the strict condition that he should receive no honour, direct influence or favour of any kind. Few donors, however, have such pure motives. Most gifts to political parties are offered on the basis that there should be a return. The exchange is never explicit and very often donors end up disappointed. But there is no doubt that many donations are offered in the hope that a place in the House of Lords, or some favourable policy, might be forthcoming.”


theweekuk--2020-07-31--Ten ways to improve your health, fitness and wellbeing

Ten ways to improve your health , fitness and wellbeing

With the world slowly easing out of lockdown, it’s important to maintain the benefits of a simpler life and avoid slipping back into any unhealthy habits. We have all the inspiration you need to live healthily and stay fit.
Discover the joy of working out anytime, anywhere
Stay motivated with thousands of in-person and live-streamed classes from MoveGB. Do HIIT one day, then chill out with yoga the next. Try something new like twerking or Pilates, or just keep your fitness levels topped up with strength and conditioning sessions. The huge variety, designed for both total beginners and workout wizards alike, makes this the perfect subscription for anyone wanting to stay active. The choice of in-person, lives treamed and on-demand classes provides variety and convenience. Get started for just £1 (free for NHS workers).movegb.com
Enjoy the comfort of bespoke furniture
Bespoke furniture designed with added comfort and support as the goal can be a game-changer — particularly with so many of us spending more time at home. New Life Mobility specialises in specially made rise-and-recline chairs and profiling beds. These eye-catching pieces are designed with conditions such as poor circulation, arthritis and osteoporosis in mind. All chairs are made to measure with optional lateral back support. Heat and massage options are also available, with the goal of soothing aches and pains. Every effort is made to ensure that each item of furniture is specifically designed to suit individual needs.newlifemobility.co.uk
Relax before bed
Relaxing before bed may lead some people to a more restorative night sleep. It is claimed that CBD (cannabidiol) can help you to relax and unwind. We all have an in-built endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate functions such as brain activity, temperature and body clock. This ECS responds to CBD compounds found in hemp, changing the way our cells communicate and ultimately producing calming and balancing effects that can help us to relax and unwind. Order a free sample of Apothem Lights Out hemp-CBD drops to try for yourself.apothemlabs.com
A focus on healthy eating
Two important ways to look after your heart are booking regular check-ups with a cardiologist and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet. It can be hard to resist cravings for foods such as chocolate, pizza, burgers and fries, but it’s best to consider the cost to one’s health. Losing control of one’s diet can lead to obesity, heart problems, diabetes, and much more. Try to set simple and realistic goals for the reduction of unhealthy foods in your diet. For example, aim to include greens in at least one meal a day, as these are packed with vitamins and minerals, which contribute to a healthy diet. Fast foods can still be enjoyed from time to time, but for the most part, meals should be low in saturated fats, sugar and salt. One of the best ways to ensure your diet is keeping your heart in the best possible shape is visiting a cardiologist. Dr Riyaz A Kaba is a consultant in cardiology, and is available for check-ups and advice.riyazkaba@gmail.com
Explore the benefits of collagen
Despite being a buzzword in the health and beauty worlds for many years, collagen still maintains an air of mystique. Comprising 30% of the protein in our bodies, collagen is found in various body parts, such as tendons, ligaments and muscle. Kollo is a daily liquid collagen supplement that has been shown to have positive effects in consumer panel studies and human clinical trials. The product was shown to contribute towards healthier skin, hair and nails, while helping to maintain the function of healthy joints and bones (you can see the studies here, here, here and here). Kollo is a source of amino acids, which can stimulate collagen production. Get 20% off a month’s supply with code ‘THEWEEK20’ — valid until 30 September 2020.kollohealth.com
Take foam rolling to the next level
Foam rolling is no longer the sole province of professional athletes, coaches, and physical therapists, and has become a more familiar practice for people at all levels of fitness. The BackBaller aims to target muscles in the upper and lower back. These rollers are made from high-density EVA foam and are contoured to minimise spinal contact. They’re fitted with steel ball bearings and neoprene grip pads in an ergonomic design. They’re also compact enough for home use as well as travel. Follow the 20-minute exercise programme regularly for best results. The Backballer comes with a lifetime warranty, a 60-day money-back guarantee and next-day delivery.backballer.com
The perfect supplement to take when drinking
Survivor is a food supplement that aims to reduce alcohol’s negative impact on health and productivity. Developed by a team of medical and food science experts, Survivor’s formulation of 18 targeted ingredients features potent herbal extracts and a blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and electrolytes. These work to replenish depleted nutrients, improve quality of sleep, and have a number of approved health claims around supporting normal liver, brain, and metabolic functions, affected when consuming alcohol. Designed as capsules to be taken while consuming alcohol, it’s food-safe, quality-tested by two European laboratories, allergen- and preservative-free, and is suitable for vegans. Survivor retails at £13.99 for a 10-capsule pack. Get 30% off by entering ‘TheWeekSurvivor’ at checkout.survivorlife.com
Plate up a balanced meal
The Diet Plate is no ordinary plate: it’s a visual and physical representation of a calorie-counted meal that’s a boon to those of us who are flummoxed by the prospect of putting together a fully balanced meal. Follow the marked area as a guideline for constructing a balanced meal of protein or starchy carbohydrates, alongside unlimited vegetables or salad. You can cook what you love to eat and there are no food-group restrictions. Clinical trials on the Diet Plate have shown that you’re six times more likely to lose weight and three times more likely to have positive results with Type 2 Diabetes. Versions tailored to both male and females are available. From £19.99 plus postage and packaging. Made in the UK from earthenware. Microwave and dishwasher safe.thedietplate.com
Laser-boost your skincare
Staying at home during lockdown has been a blessing to many people, with skin benefiting from makeup-free days, reduced junk food intake and simply having more time to spend on skincare routines. If your skin is feeling better than it has in years, why not treat it to a laser boost too? Tria’s Age-Defying laser aims to stimulate collagen and elastin, which can minimise wrinkles and restore your skin’s natural luminosity. The laser enables you to experience laser treatment at home at a fraction of the cost of a professional beauty salon. What’s more, you can buy with peace of mind, as it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.Save £30 on the cost of a Tria laser by using code ‘GET30’ at checkout.TriaBeauty.co.uk
Try out CBD
CBD is stepping out of the shadows and emerging as a popular option for those keen to find ways of unwinding. More and more people are beginning to try it, to see if it can help them to relax. Provacan works with some of the world’s most advanced cannabis research teams and has a range that includes capsules, edibles, vapes, topicals and more - all made from hemp. Provacan products can be ordered online, with shipment to UK and EU addresses. Cannabidiol is legal in the UK. Buy authentic, full-spectrum CBD oil UK products from the official Provacan website.provacan.co.uk


theweekuk--2020-08-01--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Saturday 1 Aug 2020

Herd immunity is the only long-term solution to the coronavirus but the suggestion has become “ taboo ” , a @ @ @ @ @ Raj Bhopal , emeritus professor of public health at Edinburgh University , said the concept @ @ @ @ @ controversy ” but must be revived .
He says the pandemic has put ministers in @ @ @ @ @ the position in chess where every move is disadvantageous .

‘Taboo’ of herd immunity ‘must be shattered’
Herd immunity is the only long-term solution to the coronavirus but the suggestion has become “taboo”, a leading scientist has complained. Raj Bhopal, emeritus professor of public health at Edinburgh University, said the concept currently “provokes hostility and controversy” but must be revived. He says the pandemic has put ministers in a “zugwang” - the position in chess where every move is disadvantageous.


theweekuk--2020-08-02--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Sunday 2 Aug 2020

TikTok is fighting to keep operating in the US after Donald Trump threatened to ban it .
“ As far @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re banning them from the United States , ” said the US president @ @ @ @ @ the Chinese-owned platform is a danger to national security .
The app has seen unprecedented @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s threat .
“ Everyone is going cray cray ...
If it does @ @ @ @ @ Instagram , ” said one user .

TikTok surge as app faces threats from Donald Trump
TikTok is fighting to keep operating in the US after Donald Trump threatened to ban it. “As far as TikTok is concerned, we’re banning them from the United States,” said the US president. There have been claims the Chinese-owned platform is a danger to national security. The app has seen unprecedented use in the US since Trump’s threat. “Everyone is going cray cray ... If it does happen, follow me on Instagram,” said one user.


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Lamborghini Essenza SCV12: stay off the road, this hypercar is purely for the track

Lamborghini has revealed details of its new very exclusive hypercar - the Essenza SCV12 .
Boasting Lambo ’ s most powerful V12 engine to date , more than 820bhp , just 40 of the limited edition models will be available to buy .
Despite a reported price tag of around €3m ( £2.7m ) , according to ThisisMoney.co.uk , customers should not expect to test that V12 out on the roads or even enjoy showing it off at home .
That ’ s because the Essenza SCV12 is built for the track only and will be stored by Lambo in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone with deep enough pockets can join an exclusive club and get access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world .
The track calendar will start in 2021 with “ arrive and drive ” events held at numerous FIA Grade 1 homologated circuits .
The program also includes a storage service at a new hangar built in Sant ’ Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club .
Each car will have a personalised garage and dedicated services , including webcams to allow customers to monitor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an app .
Designed for the “ ultimate driving experience ” , Automobili Lamborghini chief technical officer Maurizio Reggiani said : “ Essenza SCV12 is the ultimate expression of the V12 naturally aspirated engine , the symbol of our brand since 1963 .
It is a project in which we combined the pursuit of engineering perfection with refined aerodynamics , futuristic design , and innovative solutions such as the carbon monocoque without internal roll-cage .
“ The result is an engaging and uncompromising car , born to race and to showcase on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ famous worldwide , guaranteeing unique and special emotions for both the driver and onlookers.
” Describing it as “ bonkers ” Top Gear ’ s Vijay Pattni said : “ Lamborghini does a fine line in naturally aspirated V12 engines .
Has done , for decades .
Lamborghini also does a fine line in naturally bonkers track machines , and this is its latest , and perhaps its most bonkers.
” CAR magazine ’ s Jake Groves adds that the SCV12 is designed for “ smashing lap times ” while CNN calls it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powerful beast yet ” .

Lamborghini has revealed details of its new very exclusive hypercar - the Essenza SCV12.
Boasting Lambo’s most powerful V12 engine to date, with more than 820bhp, just 40 of the limited edition models will be available to buy.
Despite a reported price tag of around €3m (£2.7m), according to ThisisMoney.co.uk, customers should not expect to test that V12 out on the roads or even enjoy showing it off at home.
That’s because the Essenza SCV12 is built for the track only and will be stored by Lambo in Italy.
On the plus side, anyone with deep enough pockets can join an exclusive club and get access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world. The track calendar will start in 2021 with “arrive and drive” events held at numerous FIA Grade 1 homologated circuits.
The program also includes a storage service at a new hangar built in Sant’Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club. Each car will have a personalised garage and dedicated services, including webcams to allow customers to monitor their cars 24 hours a day using an app.
Designed for the “ultimate driving experience”, Automobili Lamborghini chief technical officer Maurizio Reggiani said: “Essenza SCV12 is the ultimate expression of the V12 naturally aspirated engine, the symbol of our brand since 1963. It is a project in which we combined the pursuit of engineering perfection with refined aerodynamics, futuristic design, and innovative solutions such as the carbon monocoque without internal roll-cage.
“The result is an engaging and uncompromising car, born to race and to showcase on the track the characteristics that have made Lamborghini famous worldwide, guaranteeing unique and special emotions for both the driver and onlookers.”
Describing it as “bonkers” Top Gear’s Vijay Pattni said: “Lamborghini does a fine line in naturally aspirated V12 engines. Has done, for decades. Lamborghini also does a fine line in naturally bonkers track machines, and this is its latest, and perhaps its most bonkers.”
CAR magazine’s Jake Groves adds that the SCV12 is designed for “smashing lap times” while CNN calls it the Raging Bull’s “most powerful beast yet”.
Pictures: Lamborghini Essenza SCV12


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Spain ‘secretly lobbied’ US in plan to end UK sovereignty over Gibraltar

A US congressional resolution backing British control of Gibraltar unleashed a “ belligerent ” Spanish campaign of diplomacy , insiders are claiming .
Seven current or former members of the US House of Representatives told The Telegraph that “ the Spanish Embassy in Washington D.C. pushed back after they signed a resolution backing Gibraltar ’ s British status or visited the territory ” .
According to the newspaper , Spain ’ s “ secret lobbying drive ” was intended to whip up support for “ a plan to strip Britain of sole sovereignty over Gibraltar ” .
The colony “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between Madrid and London ” , particularly since Britain voted to leave the EU , says Madrid-based newspaper El Pais .
From 1 January , both the UK and Gibraltar will be outside the bloc , along with its single market and customs union .
“ While London is facing the prospect with relative calm , alarm bells are going off in the British Overseas Territory , ” the paper adds .
Some Spanish politicians had sought to use the prospect of a Brexit deal as leverage to extract concessions from the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Party had called for Spain ’ s government to ‘ take advantage of the historic opportunity of Brexit ’ to snatch back the overseas territory from Britain , ” the Daily Express reported last month .
“ But Pedro Sanchez , the country ’ s left-wing prime minister , has convinced his allies to drop the claim due to the importance of striking a trade deal with the UK.
” According to The Telegraph , Spain ’ s efforts to lobby US politicians were unusually energetic .
“ Some congressmen said while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case the attitude of Spanish officials was perceived at times as ‘ belligerent ’ , ‘ forceful ’ , ‘ aggressive ’ and ‘ over the line ’ , ” the paper reports .

A US congressional resolution backing British control of Gibraltar unleashed a “belligerent” Spanish campaign of diplomacy, insiders are claiming.
Seven current or former members of the US House of Representatives told The Telegraph that “the Spanish Embassy in Washington D.C. pushed back after they signed a resolution backing Gibraltar’s British status or visited the territory”.
According to the newspaper, Spain’s “secret lobbying drive” was intended to whip up support for “a plan to strip Britain of sole sovereignty over Gibraltar”.
The colony “has been a continuing source of friction between Madrid and London”, particularly since Britain voted to leave the EU, says Madrid-based newspaper El Pais.
From 1 January, both the UK and Gibraltar will be outside the bloc, along with its single market and customs union. “While London is facing the prospect with relative calm, alarm bells are going off in the British Overseas Territory,” the paper adds.
Some Spanish politicians had sought to use the prospect of a Brexit deal as leverage to extract concessions from the UK government.
“The centre-right People’s Party had called for Spain’s government to ‘take advantage of the historic opportunity of Brexit’ to snatch back the overseas territory from Britain,” the Daily Express reported last month.
“But Pedro Sanchez, the country’s left-wing prime minister, has convinced his allies to drop the claim due to the importance of striking a trade deal with the UK.”
According to The Telegraph, Spain’s efforts to lobby US politicians were unusually energetic.
“Some congressmen said while diplomats should be allowed to argue their case the attitude of Spanish officials was perceived at times as ‘belligerent’, ‘forceful’, ‘aggressive’ and ‘over the line’,” the paper reports.
“One commented: ‘The Spaniards went nuts.’”


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Boris Johnson accused of using Whitehall staff as ‘guinea pigs’ amid coronavirus outbreaks

Civil servants are in open rebellion against Boris Johnson ’ s back-to-work plan , following two fresh coronavirus outbreaks in Whitehall .
Senior officials claim their staff are being used as “ guinea pigs for the government ’ s plans to boost the economy by sending people back to their offices ” , The Times reports .
Whitehall departments have carried out assessments to establish “ how many people can safely return to work ” , but bosses “ have made clear to their staff that civil servants will not be forced back into the office if they do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adds .
Indeed , two weeks after the prime minister urged the nation to get back to the office , “ hundreds of thousands of government employees are still working from home ” , says the Daily Mail .
According to an audit by the paper last week , just 2 % of staff turned up for work at some ministerial departments , which “ are said to be ‘ ghost towns ’ ” .
Only 140 officials are reported to have arrived for work at a Whitehall building housing five departments including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Mail there was “ basically no one in apart from Rishi [ Sunak ] ” .
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith has called on civil servants to “ lead by example ” and return to offices to save the country from “ economic armageddon ” .
But such a return looks increasingly unlikely .
The Times reports that health officials have been investigating two outbreaks in Whitehall last week : one at the Home Office and the other at the Cabinet Office .
“ You can ’ t experiment and virtue-signal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a source told the paper .
“ There will be a small increase in numbers .
Hopefully , that will see off ministers , and by the time we get further down the track it may be that they ’ re back working from home again .
”

Civil servants are in open rebellion against Boris Johnson’s back-to-work plan, following two fresh coronavirus outbreaks in Whitehall.
Senior officials claim their staff are being used as “guinea pigs for the government’s plans to boost the economy by sending people back to their offices”, The Times reports.
Whitehall departments have carried out assessments to establish “how many people can safely return to work”, but bosses “have made clear to their staff that civil servants will not be forced back into the office if they do not want to go”, the newspaper adds.
Indeed, two weeks after the prime minister urged the nation to get back to the office, “hundreds of thousands of government employees are still working from home”, says the Daily Mail.
According to an audit by the paper last week, just 2% of staff turned up for work at some ministerial departments, which “are said to be ‘ghost towns’”.
Only 140 officials are reported to have arrived for work at a Whitehall building housing five departments including the Treasury, where a source told the Mail there was “basically no one in apart from Rishi [Sunak]”.
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith has called on civil servants to “lead by example” and return to offices to save the country from “economic armageddon”.
But such a return looks increasingly unlikely. The Times reports that health officials have been investigating two outbreaks in Whitehall last week: one at the Home Office and the other at the Cabinet Office.
“You can’t experiment and virtue-signal with people’s health,” a source told the paper. “There will be a small increase in numbers. Hopefully, that will see off ministers, and by the time we get further down the track it may be that they’re back working from home again.”


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Build, build, build: UK planning laws to get ‘radical shake-up’

Housing Minister Robert Jenrick will this week unveil “ radical and necessary reforms ” to England ’ s land use planning system .
Boris Johnson announced in June that the government was set to make the biggest changes to planning permission laws since the Second World War in order to “ build , build , build ” .
In an article for The Sunday Telegraph this weekend , Jenrick explains that a “ simpler , faster , people-focused system ” will be introduced for the construction of new homes , schools , hospitals , offices and shops .
The “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cut “ red tape , but not standards ” , he added .
So what is due to change ?
Jenrick writes : “ Our country ’ s outdated and cumbersome planning system has contributed to a generational divide between those who own property and those who don ’ t .
“ While house prices have soared , our complex and slow planning system has been a barrier to building homes which are affordable , where families want to raise children and build their lives .
“ It ’ s resulted in delays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new housing .
Communities are missing out on new hospitals , new schools and improved roads , and restrictions have left derelict buildings as eyesores and empty shops on our high streets , instead of helping them to adapt and evolve.
” Under the new system , greater freedoms will be granted for buildings and land in town centres to change use without planning permission , with vacant and redundant buildings to be turned into homes .
The shake-up will see land designated into three categories : for growth , for renewal and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that land designated as “ growth ” by local councils will see new developments granted automatic permission .
Developments on “ renewal ” areas will be allowed in principle , while areas designated as “ for protection ” - the greenbelt and areas of outstanding natural beauty - will not be covered by any automatic building rights .
According to Sky News , the government hopes the new planning laws “ will create millions of jobs in the construction sector ” , and give the economy a much-needed boost ” as the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toll .
The changes are expected to apply only in England , adds the BBC , “ as national planning policy is devolved to administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland ” .
Although the sweeping reforms are intended to revitalise the construction sector , James Jamieson , chair of the Local Government Association , insists the idea that planning has been a barrier to house building is a “ myth ” .
“ Nine in ten planning applications are approved by councils , while more than a million homes given planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet been built , ” he said .
“ Only last week , the government ’ s own independent report warned of the worse quality of homes not delivered through the planning system .
We urge the government to heed these warnings and not further sideline the planning process .
We stand ready to work with government to ensure any reforms improve the system.
” Housing and homelessness charity Shelter has called for more government investment in social housing - and warns that the planning law changes may have the opposite effect to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the i news site .
Shelter ’ s chief executive Polly Neate said : “ Instead of getting England building faster , major changes to the planning system could actually slow England down .
“ Housebuilders risk facing uncertainty as they scramble to understand the new system and what it means for their plans - just as the construction industry is facing a huge economic downturn .
In fact , it could even inadvertently put the frighteners on developers building new homes .
“ Planning permission is not what is stopping England from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lack of government investment is.
” Tim Farron , housing spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats , is also demanding more investment in social housing .
He said : “ Rather than tinkering with planning laws , what Robert Jenrick should be doing is unveiling a huge housebuilding programme of social homes for rent .
We have already lost thousands of social rented homes as a result of the government ’ s permitted development changes to date .
”

Housing Minister Robert Jenrick will this week unveil “radical and necessary reforms” to England’s land use planning system.
Boris Johnson announced in June that the government was set to make the biggest changes to planning permission laws since the Second World War in order to “build, build, build”.
In an article for The Sunday Telegraph this weekend, Jenrick explains that a “simpler, faster, people-focused system” will be introduced for the construction of new homes, schools, hospitals, offices and shops. The “once in a generation” reforms will cut “red tape, but not standards”, he added.
So what is due to change?
Jenrick writes: “Our country’s outdated and cumbersome planning system has contributed to a generational divide between those who own property and those who don’t.
“While house prices have soared, our complex and slow planning system has been a barrier to building homes which are affordable, where families want to raise children and build their lives.
“It’s resulted in delays to vital infrastructure projects that come with new housing. Communities are missing out on new hospitals, new schools and improved roads, and restrictions have left derelict buildings as eyesores and empty shops on our high streets, instead of helping them to adapt and evolve.”
Under the new system, greater freedoms will be granted for buildings and land in town centres to change use without planning permission, with vacant and redundant buildings to be turned into homes.
The shake-up will see land designated into three categories: for growth, for renewal and for protection.
The Financial Times reports that land designated as “growth” by local councils will see new developments granted automatic permission. Developments on “renewal” areas will be allowed in principle, while areas designated as “for protection” - the greenbelt and areas of outstanding natural beauty - will not be covered by any automatic building rights.
According to Sky News, the government hopes the new planning laws “will create millions of jobs in the construction sector”, and give the economy a much-needed boost” as the coronavirus pandemic continues to take a heavy financial toll.
The changes are expected to apply only in England, adds the BBC, “as national planning policy is devolved to administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland”.
Planning ‘myth’
Although the sweeping reforms are intended to revitalise the construction sector, James Jamieson, chair of the Local Government Association, insists the idea that planning has been a barrier to house building is a “myth”.


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Instant Opinion: Scotland ‘is out of Boris Johnson’s control’

The Week ’ s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media , with excerpts from each .
on the dark cloud over the Union Scotland problem is out of Johnson ’ s control “ Sooner or later , every Conservative prime minister discovers they have a problem in north Britain .
Boris Johnson is a quicker learner than some of his Tory predecessors , if only in the sense that he has become aware of his Scottish problem in his first year in office .
It is a difficulty that can neither @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its own accord .
When he became prime minister , Mr Johnson paid tribute to the household gods of ‘ One Nation ’ conservatism , but frankly it was never quite clear which nation he meant by that .
Two recent opinion polls have suggested that support for Scottish independence stands at about 55 per cent .
The combination of Brexit , coronavirus and the prime minister himself has galvanised an independence movement that , until these three horsemen appeared , could huff and puff all it liked without getting appreciably closer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation mourns its Covid-19 dead .
But for Boris Johnson it ’ s a time for triumphalism “ The UK ’ s failure to respond adequately to the pandemic is now well documented .
Every month of the past five brought its own theme – the travesty of the delayed lockdown in March , the inability to provide PPE in April , falling short of testing targets in May .
With every one of these fiascos , as lives were lost , the government ramped up the victory rhetoric .
As the death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ moving in the right direction ’ ; the shambolic test and trace programme would be ‘ world beating ’ .
As levels of trust plummeted after the Dominic Cummings saga , Johnson said he was ‘ very proud ’ of the government ’ s response .
The bluster was laced with the implication that criticism was unpatriotic .
The hectic VE day celebrations were pressed into the service of the government ’ s account of a nation under lockdown re-enacting the bravery of previous generations .
‘ We ’ ll meet again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of England , and mixed with the government ’ s synthetic cheerfulness to create the soundtrack of the past few months – enforced upbeatness , suffocated grief .
The jolly music blares over the empty fairground of our country.
” “ This election is in danger of being stolen .
By Donald Trump .
Trump is a win-at-all-costs kind of operator .
For him , the rules are like rubber , not fixed but bendable .
All structures - laws , conventions , norms - exist for others , those not slick and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not craven enough to break them .
Trump is showing anyone who is willing to see it , in every way possible , that he is willing to do anything to win re-election , and will cry foul if he doesn ’ t , a scenario that could cause an unprecedented national crisis ...
Setting aside the fact that Trump has no power to delay the election , he is clearly seeking to undermine the legitimacy of the outcome should he lose .
If he wins , he ’ ll say he did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if he loses , he ’ ll claim he did so because of it .
In Trump ’ s world , he is never to blame for failure .
He is the best , the greatest ever , like no one has ever seen before .
He doesn ’ t fail .
In reality , his life is chock-full of failure.
” on keeping the strain off the NHS I ’ m over 50 and all for lockdown if it ’ s needed – now ’ s not the time for selfishness “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very attractive sounding name for people .
I prefer ‘ baby boomer ’ , which has a certain vibe to it , and reminds everyone that it was us lot that made Britain what it is today ( cuts both ways , admittedly ) .
Some of us were punks , you know , and hippies , and Thatcherites , generally independent-minded people .
In other words , we do not all share the same view - and we are not all anti-lockdown .
Some of us actively welcome age-related coronavirus precautions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us like the idea of extended house arrest .
We are not raring to get to the nearest rave and we ’ re too old to pogo .
We should also all accept that our natural individualism and libertarian sympathies have their limits in a pandemic .
A public health emergency imposes certain obligations on all of us , because what we do as individuals affects others , in obvious ways .
We ’ re mature enough to see that.
” 5 .
Vernon Bogdanor , professor of government at King ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Telegraph on why government legislation is not enough Universities are failing to protect academic freedom from the anti-free speech radicals “ In his defence of free speech , John Stuart Mill pointed out that the greatest threat to it in a democracy came not from government but from ‘ prevailing opinion and feeling ’ , which could give rise to ‘ a social tyranny more formidable than many kinds of political oppression ’ .
It was , Mill suggested , legitimate to avoid contact with someone whose views one finds offensive .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure or boycott to deter the expression of unpopular views ... For the universities have been the great exception to that central trend of postwar politics , the decline of the state .
They are almost as much of a public monopoly today as they were in the days of the Attlee government .
Indeed , when , in the late Eighties , Thatcher ’ s education secretary , Kenneth Baker , visited the Soviet Union , he was congratulated on the degree of central control that he had achieved .
A public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conformity .
Freedom is best defended not by the state , but by a healthy diversity of institutions .
We have , at present , just two private universities – Buckingham and the New College of the Humanities .
We need many more .
”

The Week’s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media, with excerpts from each.
1. Alex Massie in The Times
on the dark cloud over the Union
Scotland problem is out of Johnson’s control
“Sooner or later, every Conservative prime minister discovers they have a problem in north Britain. Boris Johnson is a quicker learner than some of his Tory predecessors, if only in the sense that he has become aware of his Scottish problem in his first year in office. It is a difficulty that can neither be wished away nor expected to disappear of its own accord. When he became prime minister, Mr Johnson paid tribute to the household gods of ‘One Nation’ conservatism, but frankly it was never quite clear which nation he meant by that. Two recent opinion polls have suggested that support for Scottish independence stands at about 55 per cent. The combination of Brexit, coronavirus and the prime minister himself has galvanised an independence movement that, until these three horsemen appeared, could huff and puff all it liked without getting appreciably closer to its intended final destination.”
2. Nesrine Malik in The Guardian
on the PM hailing a ‘massive success’
A nation mourns its Covid-19 dead. But for Boris Johnson it’s a time for triumphalism
“The UK’s failure to respond adequately to the pandemic is now well documented. Every month of the past five brought its own theme – the travesty of the delayed lockdown in March, the inability to provide PPE in April, falling short of testing targets in May. With every one of these fiascos, as lives were lost, the government ramped up the victory rhetoric. As the death rate peaked we were told we were ‘moving in the right direction’; the shambolic test and trace programme would be ‘world beating’. As levels of trust plummeted after the Dominic Cummings saga, Johnson said he was ‘very proud’ of the government’s response. The bluster was laced with the implication that criticism was unpatriotic. The hectic VE day celebrations were pressed into the service of the government’s account of a nation under lockdown re-enacting the bravery of previous generations. ‘We’ll meet again’, sung into the deserted streets of England, and mixed with the government’s synthetic cheerfulness to create the soundtrack of the past few months – enforced upbeatness, suffocated grief. The jolly music blares over the empty fairground of our country.”
3. Charles M. Blow in The New York Times
on a president never to blame for failure
Trump Forecasts His Own Fraud
“This election is in danger of being stolen. By Donald Trump. Trump is a win-at-all-costs kind of operator. For him, the rules are like rubber, not fixed but bendable. All structures - laws, conventions, norms - exist for others, those not slick and sly enough to evade them, those not craven enough to break them. Trump is showing anyone who is willing to see it, in every way possible, that he is willing to do anything to win re-election, and will cry foul if he doesn’t, a scenario that could cause an unprecedented national crisis... Setting aside the fact that Trump has no power to delay the election, he is clearly seeking to undermine the legitimacy of the outcome should he lose. If he wins, he’ll say he did so in spite of fraud, and if he loses, he’ll claim he did so because of it. In Trump’s world, he is never to blame for failure. He is the best, the greatest ever, like no one has ever seen before. He doesn’t fail. In reality, his life is chock-full of failure.”
4. Sean O’Grady in The Independent
on keeping the strain off the NHS
I’m over 50 and all for lockdown if it’s needed – now’s not the time for selfishness
“‘Over 50s’ isn’t a very attractive sounding name for people. I prefer ‘baby boomer’, which has a certain vibe to it, and reminds everyone that it was us lot that made Britain what it is today (cuts both ways, admittedly). Some of us were punks, you know, and hippies, and Thatcherites, generally independent-minded people. In other words, we do not all share the same view - and we are not all anti-lockdown. Some of us actively welcome age-related coronavirus precautions - being shielded and protected. Some of us like the idea of extended house arrest. We are not raring to get to the nearest rave and we’re too old to pogo. We should also all accept that our natural individualism and libertarian sympathies have their limits in a pandemic. A public health emergency imposes certain obligations on all of us, because what we do as individuals affects others, in obvious ways. We’re mature enough to see that.”
5. Vernon Bogdanor, professor of government at King’s College London, in The Daily Telegraph
on why government legislation is not enough
Universities are failing to protect academic freedom from the anti-free speech radicals
“In his defence of free speech, John Stuart Mill pointed out that the greatest threat to it in a democracy came not from government but from ‘prevailing opinion and feeling’, which could give rise to ‘a social tyranny more formidable than many kinds of political oppression’. It was, Mill suggested, legitimate to avoid contact with someone whose views one finds offensive. What was not legitimate was to use social pressure or boycott to deter the expression of unpopular views... For the universities have been the great exception to that central trend of postwar politics, the decline of the state. They are almost as much of a public monopoly today as they were in the days of the Attlee government. Indeed, when, in the late Eighties, Thatcher’s education secretary, Kenneth Baker, visited the Soviet Union, he was congratulated on the degree of central control that he had achieved. A public monopoly is always in danger of encouraging conformity. Freedom is best defended not by the state, but by a healthy diversity of institutions. We have, at present, just two private universities – Buckingham and the New College of the Humanities. We need many more.”


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Why everyone’s talking about the Tory MP arrested on suspicion of rape

A Conservative MP accused of raping a former parliamentary aide will not be suspended from the party while the allegations are investigated , a Tory spokesperson has confirmed .
The announcement follows the arrest this weekend of the former minister , who can not be named for legal reasons .
The alleged victim has also claimed that she reported the assaults to Conservative Party chief whip Mark Spencer back in April , but that no action was taken .
The unnamed Tory MP was taken into custody by police in East London early on Saturday morning , according The Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a relationship with the MP last year , he “ assaulted her , forced her to have sex and left her so traumatised that she had to go to hospital ” , the newspaper says .
The Metropolitan Police say the claims relate to four separate alleged incidents at addresses in Westminster , Lambeth and Hackney between July 2019 and January 2020 .
The MP has been released on bail .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told Times Radio that he did not know the identity of the MP involved but was “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking the matter seriously .
“ These are very serious allegations and they should be investigated , ” Jenrick said , adding that the issue “ is being handled by the chief whip , who is in contact with the member of parliament in question ” .
Why is the Conservative Party under fire ?
The alleged victim in the case claims to have complained to Spencer about the MP in question four months ago , but “ became frustrated when nothing was done ” and “ sought a second meeting with him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to The Telegraph .
The Tory chief whip “ is understood to have decided not to take immediate action against the MP until the police investigation was concluded ” , adds The Times .
Last night , the alleged victim told the newspaper that the party ’ s failure to take action was “ insulting and shows they never cared ” .
“ I felt like he [ Spencer ] did not take me seriously or recognise the severity of what had happened , ” she said .
“ In any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be going on , this police investigation , somebody would be suspended while the investigation was taking place.
” In a statement , the Labour Party said that the failure to suspend the MP at the centre of the allegations sent a “ terrible message ” that senior figures were able to secure “ protection ” through their Westminster status .
What happens next ?
Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi insisted this morning that it was “ only right ” for the Conservative Party to wait until the police investigation had concluded before taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s completed , you will be hearing from the chief whip , ” he told Today on BBC Radio 4 .
Meanwhile , a Conservative Party spokesperson said : “ We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously .
As this matter is now in the hands of the police , it would be inappropriate to comment further .
”

A Conservative MP accused of raping a former parliamentary aide will not be suspended from the party while the allegations are investigated, a Tory spokesperson has confirmed.
The announcement follows the arrest this weekend of the former minister, who cannot be named for legal reasons.
The alleged victim has also claimed that she reported the assaults to Conservative Party chief whip Mark Spencer back in April, but that no action was taken.
What happened?
The unnamed Tory MP was taken into custody by police in East London early on Saturday morning, according The Sunday Times.
The complainant alleges that while in a relationship with the MP last year, he “assaulted her, forced her to have sex and left her so traumatised that she had to go to hospital”, the newspaper says.
The Metropolitan Police say the claims relate to four separate alleged incidents at addresses in Westminster, Lambeth and Hackney between July 2019 and January 2020.
The MP has been released on bail.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told Times Radio that he did not know the identity of the MP involved but was “confident” that the Tory party was taking the matter seriously.
“These are very serious allegations and they should be investigated,” Jenrick said, adding that the issue “is being handled by the chief whip, who is in contact with the member of parliament in question”.
Why is the Conservative Party under fire?
The alleged victim in the case claims to have complained to Spencer about the MP in question four months ago, but “became frustrated when nothing was done” and “sought a second meeting with him, which she says he declined”, according to The Telegraph.
The Tory chief whip “is understood to have decided not to take immediate action against the MP until the police investigation was concluded”, adds The Times.
Last night, the alleged victim told the newspaper that the party’s failure to take action was “insulting and shows they never cared”.
“I felt like he [Spencer] did not take me seriously or recognise the severity of what had happened,” she said. “In any other organisation, were this investigation to be going on, this police investigation, somebody would be suspended while the investigation was taking place.”
In a statement, the Labour Party said that the failure to suspend the MP at the centre of the allegations sent a “terrible message” that senior figures were able to secure “protection” through their Westminster status.
What happens next?
Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi insisted this morning that it was “only right” for the Conservative Party to wait until the police investigation had concluded before taking any action. “When that’s completed, you will be hearing from the chief whip,” he told Today on BBC Radio 4.
Meanwhile, a Conservative Party spokesperson said: “We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously. As this matter is now in the hands of the police, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Coronavirus: how new 90-minute tests could fend off a second Covid-19 wave

Two game-changing new tests that can detect coronavirus within just 90 minutes are to be rolled out across the UK as early as next week , as the government prepares for a second spike in infections .
The “ on-the-spot ” swab and DNA tests can also identify winter infections such as the flu and other respiratory viruses , enabling patients to “ follow the right advice to protect themselves and others ” , according to Health Secretary Matt Hancock .
“ Currently , three-quarters of [ Covid ] test results are returned within 24 hours and a quarter can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the BBC reports .
But Hancock says that the speedier new tests will help “ to break chains of transmission quickly ” .
How do the tests work ?
A total of 450,000 of the rapid swab tests , called LamPORE , will be made available to care homes and laboratories in England next week , with millions more promised for later in the year .
The test “ involves taking a sample of saliva , unlike existing methods which require invasive and difficult nose and throat swabs ” , the Daily Mail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the samples “ come in desktop and palm versions and will be used in ‘ pop-up labs ’ as well as in existing facilities ” , Sky News adds .
The announcement of the roll-out comes as “ the government prepares to convene a round table meeting with care home providers who have been unable to access regular testing ” , the broadcaster reports .
The second form of testing , to be available in NHS hospitals from September , analyses nasal swabs using machines supplied by DnaNudge , a research group linked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the university , the government has put in a £161m order for 5.8 million DnaNudge tests .
The DNA test machines are already in use in eight London hospitals , with a further 5,000 of the machines to be issued this autumn .
“ Eventually , it is hoped that the machines used for the new tests will be made more widely available , allowing them to be deployed in schools , care homes and businesses to provide regular screening for Covid-19 , ” The Times reports .
How accurate is the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide “ 98 % sensitivity and 100 % specificity ” , reducing the risk of false negative results through a “ control assay for human RNA ” that tests for “ inadequate swabbing ” .
However , John Bell , a medical professor at Oxford University who has been advising ministers on coronavirus testing , “ said they were just as accurate as the lab swabs currently in use in the UK ” , the Daily Mail reports .
The government has never confirmed the accuracy of its current tests , “ but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosis about 80 % of the time ” , the newspaper says .
Health Secretary Hancock has described the tests as “ life-saving ” , adding that “ the fact these tests can detect flu as well as Covid-19 will be hugely beneficial as we head into winter ” .
“ Officials hope [ the tests ] will flag up local outbreaks before they take hold , avoiding the need for local lockdowns such as that imposed in the Northwest last week , ” according to the Daily Mail .
The authorities “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” of both Covid and other viral illnesses , and also “ carry out flu jab campaigns ” in a bid to lessen the strain on the NHS , the newspaper adds .
The new tests have been hailed as “ transformative ” by medical experts .
However , Anne Johnson , professor of infectious disease and epidemiology at University College London , told the Today programme that while “ rapid diagnosis was useful ” , the most important thing was for people to self-isolate if they felt ill , the BBC reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health minister Jon Ashworth welcomed the tests , but said it was “ frankly negligent ministers have failed to deliver on their promise to regularly test care home residents and staff ” .
The criticism came days after Sky News reported that two major care home providers had struggled to access testing due to government delays .

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theweekuk--2020-08-03--Can anyone stop Lewis Hamilton from winning the 2020 F1 title?

Formula 1 ’ s 2020 season is only four races old but Lewis Hamilton is already breaking records in his quest to become a seven-time world champion .
Mercedes star Hamilton has built a 30-point lead ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas at the top of the drivers ’ standings following his dramatic victory at yesterday ’ s British Grand Prix at Silverstone - a record career seventh chequered flag for the 35-year-old in his home race .
Bidding to equal Michael Schumacher ’ s record seven world championships , Hamilton is also now only four race wins from the German @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , it was not all plain sailing for Hamilton at Silverstone .
In the final laps he and Bottas looked to be cruising towards a Mercedes one-two before tyre issues affected both cars .
Bottas dropped out of the points after suffering a puncture with two laps to go and on the final lap Hamilton ’ s front left tyre also shredded .
Red Bull ’ s Max Verstappen was in hot pursuit of the leader but British ace Hamilton managed to cross the finish line on three wheels .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Speaking after the race Hamilton explained how it was “ the most dramatic ending I can remember ” .
He told Formula1.com : “ Oh my god I ’ ve definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap and my heart nearly stopped .
That ’ s how cool it was because my heart nearly stopped .
“ Until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sailing , the tyres felt great , Valtteri was really pushing incredibly hard , and I was doing some management of the tyre and he looked like he wasn ’ t .
When I heard that his tyre went , I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine , the car was still turning no problem so I thinking , ‘ Maybe it ’ s okay ’ and those last few laps I started to back off and down the straight it deflated and I just noticed the shape just shift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart in the mouth feeling because I wasn ’ t quite sure it had gone down until I hit the brakes .
And then you could see the tyre was falling off the rim .
Just driving it trying to keep the speed up , sometimes it will take off and break the wing I was just praying it would get round and it would not be too slow , I nearly didn ’ t get round the last two corners .
But thank God it did .
I really owe it to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopped towards the end once we saw the delamination.
” Is Lewis on track for another title ?
In his post-race report Andrew Benson of the BBC said “ there has never really felt much doubt about Lewis Hamilton winning this year ’ s Formula 1 world championship ” and despite the drama at Silverstone rival drivers also believe that the reigning champion will defend his title .
Second-placed Verstappen was asked if anyone can stop Hamilton , to which he replied “ no ” .
Ferrari ’ s Charles Leclerc , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The guy that has some chances is Valtteri but that ’ s it.
” GrandPX reports that even Hamilton admits he would prefer more competition .
He said : “ Honestly , look - I ’ m a through and through racer at heart .
This is not the championship I would have hoped for .
I ’ d much , much prefer to be having a super-close battle because that ’ s what gets me going .
“ Ultimately , every team is given rules and at the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exceptional job and you can ’ t fault my team for that .
That ’ s not our fault.
” F1 stays at Silverstone this weekend for the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix on 9 August .
Hamilton will aim to extend his lead at the top of the drivers ’ standings while Mercedes , who have 146 points from four races , have built a 68-point advantage over Red Bull in the constructors ’ championship .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Formula 1’s 2020 season is only four races old but Lewis Hamilton is already breaking records in his quest to become a seven-time world champion.
The Mercedes star has built a 30-point lead ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas at the top of the drivers’ standings following his dramatic victory at yesterday’s British Grand Prix at Silverstone - a record career seventh chequered flag for the 35-year-old in his home race.
Bidding to equal Michael Schumacher’s record seven world championships, Hamilton is also now just four race wins from the German’s all-time tally of 91.
However, it was not all plain sailing for Hamilton at Silverstone. In the final laps he and Bottas looked to be cruising towards a Mercedes one-two before tyre issues affected both cars.
Bottas dropped out of the points after suffering a puncture with two laps to go and on the final lap Hamilton’s front left tyre also shredded. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen was in hot pursuit of the leader but British ace Hamilton managed to cross the finish line on three wheels.
That last lap almost had me 😅 We still got this 🏆🏁 I can’t express how grateful I am to all the fans, and to my incredible team. To think this is the 7th home win is just insane. Thanks for the positive energy everyone, we did this together. #BritishGP #TeamLH #StillWeRise @F1 pic.twitter.com/PyAPZ6SZrI — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) August 2, 2020
‘My heart nearly stopped’
Speaking after the race Hamilton explained how it was “the most dramatic ending I can remember”.
He told Formula1.com: “Oh my god I’ve definitely never experienced anything like that on the last lap and my heart nearly stopped. That’s how cool it was because my heart nearly stopped.
“Until that last lap everything was relatively smooth sailing, the tyres felt great, Valtteri was really pushing incredibly hard, and I was doing some management of the tyre and he looked like he wasn’t. When I heard that his tyre went, I was just looking at mine and everything seemed fine, the car was still turning no problem so I thinking, ‘Maybe it’s okay’ and those last few laps I started to back off and down the straight it deflated and I just noticed the shape just shift a bit.
“That was definitely heart in the mouth feeling because I wasn’t quite sure it had gone down until I hit the brakes. And then you could see the tyre was falling off the rim. Just driving it trying to keep the speed up, sometimes it will take off and break the wing I was just praying it would get round and it would not be too slow, I nearly didn’t get round the last two corners. But thank God it did. I really owe it to the team, ultimately we should have stopped towards the end once we saw the delamination.”
Lewis Hamilton 🤝 Breaking records ▪ Breaks Alain Prost's record for the most wins at a driver's home Grand Prix - seven victories ▪ Breaks Ayrton Senna's record for most Grand Prix led from start-to-finish - 19 races #MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/Z5QlHr0NOm — Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) August 3, 2020
Is Lewis on track for another title?
In his post-race report Andrew Benson of the BBC said “there has never really felt much doubt about Lewis Hamilton winning this year’s Formula 1 world championship”. Despite the drama at Silverstone rival drivers also believe that the reigning champion will defend his title.
Second-placed Verstappen was asked if anyone can stop Hamilton, to which he replied “no”. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished third, added: “No. The guy that has some chances is Valtteri but that’s it.”
GrandPX reports that even Hamilton admits he would prefer more competition. He said: “Honestly, look - I’m a through and through racer at heart. This is not the championship I would have hoped for. I’d much, much prefer to be having a super-close battle because that’s what gets me going.
“Ultimately, every team is given rules and at the end of the day we’ve just done an exceptional job and you can’t fault my team for that. That’s not our fault.”
F1 stays at Silverstone this weekend for the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix on 9 August. Hamilton will aim to extend his lead at the top of the drivers’ standings while Mercedes, who have 146 points from four races, have built a 68-point advantage over Red Bull in the constructors’ championship.
"Survival instincts come over you & that's really what I was thinking "'I've come all this way, I'm not going to pull over, back off completely and let everyone drive past'." In words & video, Lewis Hamilton on THAT final #BritishGP lap: https://t.co/ntAkCYpAPI#SkyF1 | #F1 — Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) August 2, 2020
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theweekuk--2020-08-03--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Monday 3 Aug 2020

New tests that can detect Covid-19 and flu , and give results in 90 minutes , will be rolled out @ @ @ @ @ from next week .
Ministers claim the “ on-the-spot ” swab and DNA tests will @ @ @ @ @ and other seasonal illnesses .
Meanwhile , diners across the UK will be able to @ @ @ @ @ as the “ eat out to help out ” scheme begins .

90-minute coronavirus test to be launched next week
New tests that can detect Covid-19 and flu, and give results in 90 minutes, will be rolled out in care homes and laboratories from next week. Ministers claim the “on-the-spot” swab and DNA tests will help distinguish between the coronavirus and other seasonal illnesses. Meanwhile, diners across the UK will be able to enjoy half-price meals from today as the “eat out to help out” scheme begins.


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Israeli border tension ‘a sign world is about to end’

A Christian evangelist has claimed that tension on the Lebanese-Israeli border is proof that the world is coming to an end .
After the Israeli military announced it had thwarted an “ infiltration attempt ” from Lebanon , Paul Begley said this was a sign of an impending apocalyptic battle “ between God and Lucifer ” .
Egypt invites Musk to see pyramids after aliens tweet An Egyptian minister has invited Elon Musk to visit the country and see for himself that the pyramids were not built by aliens .
After the colourful billionaire tweeted that it was “ obv @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Rania A. Al Mashat said : “ Mr Musk , we are waiting for you.
” Man admits to having sex with chickens A man has admitted he had sex with chickens , while his wife filmed it .
Rehan Baig , 37 , entered guilty pleas at Bradford Crown Court to a total of 11 charges including three of performing an act of penetration on chickens .
His wife Haleema Baig has admitted three charges of aiding and abetting “ intercourse with an animal ” .
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Start your trial subscription today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A Christian evangelist has claimed that tension on the Lebanese-Israeli border is proof that the world is coming to an end. After the Israeli military announced it had thwarted an “infiltration attempt” from Lebanon, Paul Begley said this was a sign of an impending apocalyptic battle “between God and Lucifer”.
Egypt invites Musk to see pyramids after aliens tweet
An Egyptian minister has invited Elon Musk to visit the country and see for himself that the pyramids were not built by aliens. After the colourful billionaire tweeted that it was “obv” that “aliens built the pyramids,” Rania A. Al Mashat said: “Mr Musk, we are waiting for you.”
Man admits to having sex with chickens
A man has admitted he had sex with chickens, while his wife filmed it. Rehan Baig, 37, entered guilty pleas at Bradford Crown Court to a total of 11 charges including three of performing an act of penetration on chickens. His wife Haleema Baig has admitted three charges of aiding and abetting “intercourse with an animal”.
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theweekuk--2020-08-03--Len McCluskey threatens to cut Unite funding to Labour over anti-Semitism payouts

The head of Labour ’ s biggest union backer has ordered a review of its donations to the party following Keir Starmer ’ s decision to pay damages to former staff who became anti-Semitism whistle-blowers .
The party agreed in the High Court last month to pay undisclosed six-figure settlements for making “ false and defamatory ” comments about seven ex-employees who spoke out last year in a BBC Panorama documentary titled Is Labour Anti-Semitic ?
, The Telegraph reports .
But Len McCluskey claims that “ a lot ” of the funds used to pay the settlements came from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abuse of members ’ money , ” McCluskey told The Observer this weekend .
“ I ’ m already being asked all kinds of questions by my executive .
It ’ s as though a huge sign has been put up outside the Labour Party with ‘ queue here with your writ and get your payment over there ’ .
” He added that Starmer should not to “ take for granted ” continued funding from Unite , which gave Labour almost £6m last year , and warned that the party could “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far to the right .
McCluskey has been praised by left-leaning Labour MPs for ordering the funding review , reports The Guardian .
“ Len said what a lot of us have been thinking , ” said an unnamed politician .
The union chief is a close ally of former Labour boss Jeremy Corbyn , who claims that his team was advised while he was in charge that the “ party had a strong defence ” against the complainants .
However , according to The Telegraph ’ s political correspondent Harry Yorke , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wave of legal claims against Labour that threaten to leave the party at risk of bankruptcy ” as a result of his handling of anti-Semitism allegations .
Yorke has reported that Labour is facing “ at least 40 further civil claims ” , many of which relate to a leaked internal report compiled during the last few months of Corbyn ’ s leadership that “ included allegations over the conduct of former Labour Party officials and named complainants in anti-Semitism cases ” .
Corbyn ’ s criticism of Starmer ’ s decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has reportedly further “ infuriated Jewish campaigners ” and prompted new legel claims against the former Labour leader and the party .
Mark Lewis , the libel lawyer who represented Panorama journalist John Ware and the former Labour officials , confirmed last month that he had been instructed by 32 people to take action over the leaked report .

The head of Labour’s biggest union backer has ordered a review of its donations to the party following Keir Starmer’s decision to pay damages to former staff who became anti-Semitism whistle-blowers.
The party agreed in the High Court last month to pay undisclosed six-figure settlements for making “false and defamatory” comments about seven ex-employees who spoke out last year in a BBC Panorama documentary titled Is Labour Anti-Semitic?, The Telegraph reports.
But Len McCluskey claims that “a lot” of the funds used to pay the settlements came from Unite. “It’s an abuse of members’ money,” McCluskey told The Observer this weekend.
“I’m already being asked all kinds of questions by my executive. It’s as though a huge sign has been put up outside the Labour Party with ‘queue here with your writ and get your payment over there’.”
He added that Starmer should not to “take for granted” continued funding from Unite, which gave Labour almost £6m last year, and warned that the party could “go under” if it steers too far to the right.
McCluskey has been praised by left-leaning Labour MPs for ordering the funding review, reports The Guardian. “Len said what a lot of us have been thinking,” said an unnamed politician.
The union chief is a close ally of former Labour boss Jeremy Corbyn, who claims that his team was advised while he was in charge that the “party had a strong defence” against the complainants.
However, according to The Telegraph’s political correspondent Harry Yorke, Corbyn has been accused of “unleashing a wave of legal claims against Labour that threaten to leave the party at risk of bankruptcy” as a result of his handling of anti-Semitism allegations.
Yorke has reported that Labour is facing “at least 40 further civil claims”, many of which relate to a leaked internal report compiled during the last few months of Corbyn’s leadership that “included allegations over the conduct of former Labour Party officials and named complainants in anti-Semitism cases”.
Corbyn’s criticism of Starmer’s decision to pay damages to the anti-Semitism whistle-blowers has reportedly further “infuriated Jewish campaigners” and prompted new legel claims against the former Labour leader and the party.
Mark Lewis, the libel lawyer who represented Panorama journalist John Ware and the former Labour officials, confirmed last month that he had been instructed by 32 people to take action over the leaked report.


theweekuk--2020-08-03--Donald Trump vs. TikTok: why the US president is at war with Generation Z’s favourite app

Donald Trump has paused his plan to ban TikTok from operating in the US in order to pave the way for the sale of the Chinese-owned app to Microsoft , according to reports .
The US president appeared to have scuppered the deal after warning on Friday that TikTok poses a national security risk because the video-sharing platform ’ s parent company , Beijing-based ByteDance , has access to the personal data of US users .
But Reuters reports that “ people familiar with the matter ” say that following a discussion with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days to negotiate the sale .
Where did the spat between Trump and TikTok start ?
TikTok is thought to have “ about half a billion active users worldwide - and about 80 million in the US - with a huge proportion of these in their teens or early 20s ” , The BBC reports .
But “ some US politicians are worried the app ’ s Chinese owner ByteDance poses a risk to national security ” , the broadcaster says - fears that have been echoed by regulators and other authorities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ large amount of user data ” , and “ because its parent company is based in China , some fear the platform could be compelled to share its data with the Chinese government or censor certain videos ” , The Guardian reports .
A number of US companies have ordered employees to delete the app from company phones , and the US military has also banned soldiers from using the platform .
Although ByteDance has denied sharing information with the Chinese government , the issue appeared to come to a head during a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday .
Trump told reporters that “ as far as TikTok is concerned , we ’ re banning them from the United States ” .
“ There are a couple of options .
But a lot of things are happening .
So , we ’ ll see what happens , ” he added .
In response , TikTok ’ s US general manager Vanessa Pappas said : “ We ’ re not planning on going anywhere .
When it comes to safety and security we ’ re building the safest app because it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We are so proud of all the various communities who call TikTok home.
” Despite TikTok ’ s defiant tone , the parent company ’ s executives are “ reportedly ‘ desperate ’ to shield their creation from the wrath of the White House by selling it to an American company ” , having “ already been ejected from their biggest overseas market in India ” , says The Telegraph .
ByteDance is said to have been close to reaching a deal with US tech giant Microsoft before Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsequent U-turn , Microsoft issued a statement announcing the continuation of the negotiations to acquire TikTok , with the aim of finalising the deal by 15 September .
The proposed agreement “ would involve a purchase of the TikTok service in the United States , Canada , Australia , and New Zealand and would result in Microsoft owning and operating TikTok in these markets ” , the Washington-based company said .
What happens next ?
The negotiations between ByteDance and Microsoft are being overseen by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ panel that has the power to block any agreement .
The Microsoft statement said the company “ fully appreciates the importance of addressing the president ’ s concerns ” , adding that it is “ committed to acquiring TikTok subject to a complete security review and providing proper economic benefits to the United States , including the United States Treasury ” .
The reasons for Trump ’ s ban reprieve are “ not immediately clear ” , says Al Jazeera .
But should the deal fall through and a US veto on TikTok @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chances could take a hit .
“ Banning TikTok would alienate many of its young users before the US presidential election in November , and would likely trigger a wave of legal challenges , ” says the broadcaster .
“ Several prominent Republican legislators issued statements in the last two days urging Trump to back a sale of TikTok to Microsoft.
” Other theories have also been put forward about the president ’ s U-turn .
According to the Financial Times , some executives at ByteDance believe Trump ’ s intervention may just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secure a better deal .

Donald Trump has paused his plan to ban TikTok from operating in the US in order to pave the way for the sale of the Chinese-owned app to Microsoft, according to reports.
The US president appeared to have scuppered the deal after warning on Friday that TikTok poses a national security risk because the video-sharing platform’s parent company, Beijing-based ByteDance, has access to the personal data of US users.
But Reuters reports that “people familiar with the matter” say that following a discussion with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Sunday, Trump has agreed to give ByteDance 45 days to negotiate the sale.
Where did the spat between Trump and TikTok start?
TikTok is thought to have “about half a billion active users worldwide - and about 80 million in the US - with a huge proportion of these in their teens or early 20s”, The BBC reports.
But “some US politicians are worried the app’s Chinese owner ByteDance poses a risk to national security”, the broadcaster says - fears that have been echoed by regulators and other authorities.
“Security experts say TikTok collects a large amount of user data”, and “because its parent company is based in China, some fear the platform could be compelled to share its data with the Chinese government or censor certain videos”, The Guardian reports.
A number of US companies have ordered employees to delete the app from company phones, and the US military has also banned soldiers from using the platform.
Although ByteDance has denied sharing information with the Chinese government, the issue appeared to come to a head during a press event on Air Force One last Friday. Trump told reporters that “as far as TikTok is concerned, we’re banning them from the United States”.
“There are a couple of options. But a lot of things are happening. So, we’ll see what happens,” he added.
In response, TikTok’s US general manager Vanessa Pappas said: “We’re not planning on going anywhere. When it comes to safety and security we’re building the safest app because it’s the right thing to do.
“We are so proud of all the various communities who call TikTok home.”
How is Microsoft involved?
Despite TikTok’s defiant tone, the parent company’s executives are “reportedly ‘desperate’ to shield their creation from the wrath of the White House by selling it to an American company”, having “already been ejected from their biggest overseas market in India”, says The Telegraph.


theweekuk--2020-08-04--Jadon Sancho: Man Utd set to add £100m gem to star-studded attack

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After 18 months of speculation, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer finally looks set to land his No.1 transfer target Jadon Sancho in a big-money deal from Borussia Dortmund.
England winger Sancho, 20, has been a revelation since he joined Dortmund following spells in the youth teams at Watford and Manchester City.
After making his Dortmund first-team debut in October 2017 Sancho has shone with 30 goals and 38 assists in 78 Bundesliga matches. On the European stage for BVB he has scored three goals in 15 Uefa Champions League games.
He was rewarded with a call-up to the England senior squad and following his debut in October 2018 he has gone on to win 11 caps and score twice for the Three Lions.
Such form for club and country has seen Sancho linked with a host of European giants, but according to several media reports today United are on the verge of bringing the young attacker back to Manchester.
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Record breaker: the £100m man
BBC Sport says Dortmund have placed a 10 August deadline on United securing a deal for Sancho. With the 2020-21 Bundesliga season starting on 18 September, the German club are keen for “undisturbed preparation” ahead of the new campaign.
According to Sky Sports United are close to “agreeing personal terms in principle” on a five-year contract with the player. Discussions between the Old Trafford club and Dortmund are at an “advanced stage”, with the transfer fee the main hurdle.
It’s believed that Dortmund value Sancho at around €120m (£108m), but would be willing to accept less money up front, Sky reports.
United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and transfer negotiator Matt Judge are currently “locked in talks” with Dortmund, the Daily Mirror says, but hope to have the deal completed this week.
Speaking on talkSPORT this morning, The Sun’s Neil Custis also believes that the transfer “will be done within the week”. Custis says that the transfer fee for Sancho is “effectively £70m until United win the Premier League, Champions League or he makes 30 or 40 appearances”, then the add-on clauses will be triggered.