theweekuk--2020-04-23--Instant Opinion: Nationalists are ‘less united than ever’

The Week ’ s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media , with excerpts from each .
1 .
Janan Ganesh in the Financial Times Trump , Xi and other nationalists are less united than ever “ There are theoretical contradictions within populism .
This is a creed that can not decide what it thinks about personal freedom .
It resents technocratic bossiness while brooking no checks and balances in the protection of the homeland .
Mr Trump claims ‘ total authority ’ , yes , but to loosen restrictions on people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for would-be immigrants ) .
If this tension is evident in one leader , imagine its permutations for policy across several governments across several continents across several issues .
Even according an ‘ -ism ’ to such a disparate bunch is to flatter them .
It is understandable that we do .
We are a pattern-recognising species , and sometimes a pattern-inventing one .
It is consoling to detect some kind of shape to the world .
But the point is to not make the pattern itself more frightening than anarchic reality .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with authoritarians in recent times .
The question is whether they add up to a cohesive front against democracy .
An empire of illiberalism , on which the sun never sets , assumes more unity than could feasibly exist among national egoists .
It just took a crisis to show it.
” Out of his depth “ [ Confusion over EU procurement schemes ] reinforces the impression of a government that was ill prepared for a crisis that demanded competence more than rhetorical bluster , and is failing now to get sufficient grip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a symptom of over-centralisation and reliance on the individual authority of the prime minister , whose focus is necessarily elsewhere .
But capable ministers and a resilient administration would be compensating better for Mr Johnson ’ s absence .
That they are not , that the whole system seems obviously adrift , running on bluster and improvisation , testifies to flaws .
Mr Raab is obviously out of his depth .
Sadly , it seems his painfully shrunken stature is an accurate measure of the government he currently leads.
” Despite liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris over lockdown crunch-time “ If he allows the pandemic to wreck his mission to deliver liberty from rule by Brussels and London-centric elites , his new base will collapse .
On the other hand , if he can use the importance of this imperilled mission as his mandate for weening the people off lockdown , he ’ ll come out stronger .
It smells like the Government gets this .
It has ruled out an extension to the transition , making a no-deal Brexit highly likely , and confirmed that HS2 will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to square with the public that to achieve Brexit systems change and level up the country , Britain must go back to work.
” Branson may be a tax-avoiding wastrel , but Virgin still deserves a lifeline “ The whole point of the Government ’ s business rescue is to hibernate the UK economy and bring back normally profitable companies .
There should be no special deals for Branson but his UK Virgin Atlantic employees should be entitled to furlough funds and the group to apply for credits under the Bank of England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If this can ’ t work technically then the Government should be prepared to take a temporary equity stake as it did with the banks .
Branson created something good .
There will be no economic benefit if the transatlantic routes largely are reduced to a code sharing BA-American alliance versus a United Airlines duopoly.
” on lessons from the Spanish Flu We ’ ll be free to enjoy the Roaring 2020s “ You might expect the 1920s to have been a decade of painful reconstruction , caution and cultural conservatism .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ The Roaring 20s ’ .
In America and in Europe the postwar , post-pandemic reaction was an explosion of cultural and artistic innovation and a revolution in social attitudes.
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The Week’s daily round-up highlights the five best opinion pieces from across the British and international media, with excerpts from each.
1. Janan Ganesh in the Financial Times
on authoritarian leaders
Trump, Xi and other nationalists are less united than ever
“There are theoretical contradictions within populism. This is a creed that cannot decide what it thinks about personal freedom. It resents technocratic bossiness while brooking no checks and balances in the protection of the homeland. Mr Trump claims ‘total authority’, yes, but to loosen restrictions on people, not to tighten them (except for would-be immigrants). If this tension is evident in one leader, imagine its permutations for policy across several governments across several continents across several issues. Even according an ‘-ism’ to such a disparate bunch is to flatter them. It is understandable that we do. We are a pattern-recognising species, and sometimes a pattern-inventing one. It is consoling to detect some kind of shape to the world. But the point is to not make the pattern itself more frightening than anarchic reality. No doubt, the momentum has been with authoritarians in recent times. The question is whether they add up to a cohesive front against democracy. An empire of illiberalism, on which the sun never sets, assumes more unity than could feasibly exist among national egoists. It just took a crisis to show it.”
2. The Guardian Editorial
on Dominic Raab
Out of his depth
“[Confusion over EU procurement schemes] reinforces the impression of a government that was ill prepared for a crisis that demanded competence more than rhetorical bluster, and is failing now to get sufficient grip and undo damage done. Partly that is a symptom of over-centralisation and reliance on the individual authority of the prime minister, whose focus is necessarily elsewhere. But capable ministers and a resilient administration would be compensating better for Mr Johnson’s absence. That they are not, that the whole system seems obviously adrift, running on bluster and improvisation, testifies to flaws. Mr Raab is obviously out of his depth. Sadly, it seems his painfully shrunken stature is an accurate measure of the government he currently leads.”
3. Sherelle Jacobs in The Telegraph
on coronavirus and Brexit
Despite liberal bubble hysteria, the public will back Boris over lockdown crunch-time
“If he allows the pandemic to wreck his mission to deliver liberty from rule by Brussels and London-centric elites, his new base will collapse. On the other hand, if he can use the importance of this imperilled mission as his mandate for weening the people off lockdown, he’ll come out stronger. It smells like the Government gets this. It has ruled out an extension to the transition, making a no-deal Brexit highly likely, and confirmed that HS2 will go ahead; groundwork-laying, maybe, to square with the public that to achieve Brexit systems change and level up the country, Britain must go back to work.”
4. Alex Brummer in the Daily Mail
on a Virgin Atlantic bailout
Branson may be a tax-avoiding wastrel, but Virgin still deserves a lifeline
“The whole point of the Government’s business rescue is to hibernate the UK economy and bring back normally profitable companies. There should be no special deals for Branson but his UK Virgin Atlantic employees should be entitled to furlough funds and the group to apply for credits under the Bank of England’s financing scheme for larger companies. If this can’t work technically then the Government should be prepared to take a temporary equity stake as it did with the banks. Branson created something good. There will be no economic benefit if the transatlantic routes largely are reduced to a code sharing BA-American alliance versus a United Airlines duopoly.”
5. David Aaronovitch in The Times
on lessons from the Spanish Flu
We’ll be free to enjoy the Roaring 2020s
“You might expect the 1920s to have been a decade of painful reconstruction, caution and cultural conservatism. Instead we got what became known as ‘The Roaring 20s’. In America and in Europe the postwar, post-pandemic reaction was an explosion of cultural and artistic innovation and a revolution in social attitudes.”
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theweekuk--2020-04-23--Today’s back pages: Phil Neville to leave Lionesses role next summer and rugby union is ‘too old and

Today’s back pages: Phil Neville to leave Lionesses role next summer and rugby union is ‘too old and white’

Several papers report that Phil Neville is set to leave his role as manager of the England women ’ s team in the summer of 2021 .
It ’ s expected that a formal announcement will be made today , but The Daily Telegraph , Daily Mirror and The Guardian all pre-empt the Football Association with the claim that the former Manchester United and Everton star will not sign another contract , thereby terminating his role that began in January 2018 .
The Guardian says that a new boss will therefore “ take the reins for the European Championship in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tournament had initially been scheduled for 2021 but was put back 12 months to accommodate the rescheduled men ’ s Euros and the Olympics , both of which will now take place next year .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Rugby union is “ too old and white ” .
That ’ s the headline on the back page of The Times today .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Argentine who is running to become the chairman of World Rugby .
His comments will be interpreted as a dig at the incumbent , 68-year-old Englishman Bill Beaumont , his rival in Sunday ’ s election to appoint a new chairman of the sport ’ s governing body .
The main theme of Pichot ’ s election campaign is to make the sport more accessible , moving it away from what he sees as middle-aged white men .
“ You can see it in the prices you pay at Twickenham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the young audience ?
They can not buy a ticket .
That kid from mini-rugby - how can that kid be engaged in the game ?
” The vote is by secret electronic ballot on Sunday but the Times says the result won ’ t be announced until 12 May .
Wayne Rooney ’ s “ wage war ” is emblazoned across the back page of the Daily Mail with the paper claiming that the former England skipper is leading Derby County ’ s revolt against the plan to defer the squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With football in financial crisis , clubs are asking players to defer their wages or take a pay cut , and the Mail says Derby ’ s board wants the Rams players to “ forego half of their pay , which would be paid back at a later date ” .
But that is allegedly too much for Rooney , who has told chief executive officer Stephen Pearce that the squad are prepared to accept no more than a 25 % pay cut .
The Mail alleges that Rooney is taking advice from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is “ advising Championship players not to accept any more than 25 % deferrals ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Neville to quit Lionesses
Several papers report that Phil Neville is set to leave his role as manager of the England women’s team in the summer of 2021.
It’s expected that a formal announcement will be made today, but The Daily Telegraph, Daily Mirror and The Guardian all pre-empt the Football Association with the claim that the former Manchester United and Everton star will not sign another contract, thereby terminating his role that began in January 2018.
The Guardian says that a new boss will therefore “take the reins for the European Championship in England in 2022”.
The women’s tournament had initially been scheduled for 2021 but was put back 12 months to accommodate the rescheduled men’s Euros and the Olympics, both of which will now take place next year.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Rugby: pale, male and stale
Rugby union is “too old and white”. That’s the headline on the back page of The Times today.
The words are attributed to Agustín Pichot, the Argentine who is running to become the chairman of World Rugby.
His comments will be interpreted as a dig at the incumbent, 68-year-old Englishman Bill Beaumont, his rival in Sunday’s election to appoint a new chairman of the sport’s governing body.
The main theme of Pichot’s election campaign is to make the sport more accessible, moving it away from what he sees as middle-aged white men.
“You can see it in the prices you pay at Twickenham,” he said. “What happens to the young audience? They cannot buy a ticket. That kid from mini-rugby - how can that kid be engaged in the game?”
The vote is by secret electronic ballot on Sunday but the Times says the result won’t be announced until 12 May.
Wayne’s war
Wayne Rooney’s “wage war” is emblazoned across the back page of the Daily Mail with the paper claiming that the former England skipper is leading Derby County’s revolt against the plan to defer the squad’s wages by 50%.
With football in financial crisis, clubs are asking players to defer their wages or take a pay cut, and the Mail says Derby’s board wants the Rams players to “forego half of their pay, which would be paid back at a later date”.
But that is allegedly too much for Rooney, who has told chief executive officer Stephen Pearce that the squad are prepared to accept no more than a 25% pay cut.
The Mail alleges that Rooney is taking advice from the Professional Footballers’ Association, which is “advising Championship players not to accept any more than 25% deferrals”.
Today’s sport headlines
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theweekuk--2020-04-23--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Thursday 23 Apr 2020

The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has denied a growing number of allegations that the new coronavirus originated in @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson Fadela Chaib said that “ it is probable , likely , that the virus @ @ @ @ @ .
The comment followed Donald Trump ’ s confirmation that his administration is investigating whether @ @ @ @ @ a lab in the Chinese city of Wuhan .
So is it fact or fiction @

Coronavirus: behind the Chinese laboratory theory
The World Health Organization (WHO) has denied a growing number of allegations that the new coronavirus originated in a Chinese laboratory.
WHO spokesperson Fadela Chaib said that “it is probable, likely, that the virus is of animal origin”. The comment followed Donald Trump’s confirmation that his administration is investigating whether the new virus originated in a lab in the Chinese city of Wuhan. So is it fact or fiction?


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Coronavirus: why are experts recommending vitamin D?

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Public health experts are recommending people take daily vitamin D supplements through the spring and summer because of the coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium – which is essential to maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
Normally, explains the BBC, most people get enough vitamin D by spending time outdoors because our skin creates it when exposed to the sun.
Therefore, Public Health England has previously suggested that everyone should consider taking a supplement only during autumn and winter months, when sunshine is limited.
However, it has now changed its advice, over concerns that the lockdown is depriving the population of the key nutrient.
The Telegraph says a deficiency of vitamin D can lead to a number of conditions including rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which cause bones to soften, weaken and in some cases become deformed.
Sara Stanner, of the British Nutrition Foundation, said: “Unfortunately, as the effects of coronavirus continue, many of us are limited in the time we can spend outdoors.
“Correctly abiding by government rules and staying at home is immensely important and, while many of us have limited access to sunlight, this means we need to take a little extra care to keep our vitamin D levels healthy.”
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The Daily Express says that supplements are being suggested “despite the wall-to-wall sunshine that has fallen on many parts of the country this week” because “not everyone is fortunate enough to have a garden that they can use to enjoy it”.
The vitamin is available from supermarkets and chemists, either as a single supplement or as part of a multivitamin tablet.
Although Spanish and French researchers are performing clinical trials to see if vitamin D helps coronavirus patients, there is currently no evidence that it reduces the risk of catching or getting ill with coronavirus.


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Coronavirus social distancing to last for ‘next calendar year’

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theweekuk--2020-04-23--Oil prices pick up as Trump threatens to ‘destroy’ Iranian gunboats

The perilous friction between the US and Iranian governments flared again on Wednesday , even as the coronavirus pandemic draws the vast majority of international focus .
From US President Donald Trump came a provocative threat against the Iranian navy .
“ I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea , ” Trump tweeted .
The president seemed to be reacting to a confrontation from 15 April , when the US military said numerous small craft from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Persian Gulf in a series of “ dangerous and harassing approaches ” .
The declaration , which changes the rules of engagement for US vessels ( they normally have to be under direct threat to use lethal force ) seems to have come as a surprise to even the US military .
I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea .
Only a few hours before the tweet , the IRGC said they had fired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - into orbit .
They did not specify what capabilities it had , but US officials have long believed that Iran ’ s until-now abortive attempts to develop military satellite technology were in fact cover for the development of ballistic missiles .
“ Iran needs to be held accountable for what they ’ ve done , ” said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo , arguing that Iranians were in contravention of a UN security council resolution .
However , as The Guardian points out , “ the 2015 UN resolution Pompeo was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear deal with Iran that the US abrogated in 2018 ” .
The Trump administration consciously exchanged Obama ’ s nuclear deal - which promoted a more cooperative approach to limiting the Iranian nuclear programme - for a “ maximum pressure ” strategy based on deterrence .
The continued Iranian assertiveness casts doubt that this approach is working .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN has a theory as to why the president ’ s threat came when it did .
“ Roughly a half hour before Trump tweeted Wednesday , Fox & Friends , which Trump regularly watches , aired a segment about the incident , as well as a report on Iran launching its first military satellite into orbit , ” it said .
While the hostilities between the two countries far predates the Covid-19 pandemic , The New York Times speculates that the current rise in tensions may not be totally disconnected .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Trump ’ s administration have been criticized for mismanaging the response to the virus , and leaders in both nations may calculate that there is an advantage to reigniting confrontations with old adversaries , ” the newspaper says .
How did the confrontation affect oil prices ?
There is another , entirely predictable side-effect of raising even the slightest prospect of violence in the region : as the oil industry relies so heavily on tankers passing freely from oil-producing gulf nations through the Strait of Hormuz , and out into the open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raises the price of oil reliably .
Indeed , with the oil industry reeling from the freefall in prices caused by the now-ended oil war , and more significantly by the demand-vaporising coronavirus pandemic , prices suddenly rebounded on Wednesday following Trump ’ s tweet .
West Texas Intermediate , the benchmark price for crude oil in the United States , had fallen below 0 to - $ 37.63 on Monday , but yesterday it rose to $ 13.78 a barrel - a 19 % increase .
Why are the two countries so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s strident announcement was consistent with his administration ’ s “ maximum pressure ” Iran approach .
He has talked openly about restoring deterrence against the Middle Eastern nation , and considers the previous administration ’ s purportedly lenient approach to have allowed Tehran to become too assertive .
It was in this vein that the US killed Iranian major general Qasem Soleimani early this year .
Specifically , as a presidential candidate in 2016 , Trump said at a rally that when Iranians “ circle our beautiful destroyers with their little boats… @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water ” .
“ Mr Trump has frequently said any US retaliation to serious Iranian actions would be swift and significant , ” reports the Financial Times .
“ But US defence officials are concerned that Iran is prepared to bear losses from any US military response if it helped Tehran achieve its strategic goal of forcing the US from the region .
”

The US and Iranian governments are at odds again after Donald Trump threatened military action against the Middle Eastern state.
The US president posted the warning to the Iranian navy on Twitter on Wednesday, saying: “I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea.”
The president seemed to be reacting to a confrontation on 15 April, when the US military said numerous small craft from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sped within yards of US warships in the Persian Gulf in a series of “dangerous and harassing approaches”.
“We don’t want their gunboats surrounding our boats, and travelling around our boats and having a good time,” Trump told reporters. “We’re not going to stand for it… They’ll shoot them out of the water,” reports Sky News.
Trump’s declaration changes the rules of engagement for US vessels, which normally have to be under direct threat to use lethal force.
Why now?
CNN has a theory as to why the president’s threat came when it did. “Roughly a half hour before Trump tweeted Wednesday, Fox & Friends, which Trump regularly watches, aired a segment about the incident, as well as a report on Iran launching its first military satellite into orbit,” it said.
While the hostilities between the two countries far predates the Covid-19 pandemic, The New York Times speculates that the current rise in tensions may not be totally disconnected.
“At home, the Iranian government and Mr. Trump’s administration have been criticised for mismanaging the response to the virus, and leaders in both nations may calculate that there is an advantage to reigniting confrontations with old adversaries,” the newspaper says.
As the oil industry relies so heavily on tankers passing freely from oil-producing gulf nations through the Strait of Hormuz, and out into the open ocean, any chance of disruption in the region raises the price of oil reliably.
With the oil industry reeling from the freefall in prices caused by the now-ended oil war, and more significantly by the demand-vaporising coronavirus pandemic, prices suddenly rebounded on Wednesday following Trump’s tweet.
What has the reaction been?
Iran responded with its own threat, saying they are prepared to destroy American warships if their security is threatened in the Persian Gulf.


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Should car insurers offer refunds during lockdown?

The coronavirus lockdown order has left drivers and their families stuck at home , with vehicles parked and unused .
And with roads far less busy , fewer accidents are occurring , which means fewer claims - resulting in big savings for insurance companies .
Indeed , insurers ’ profits are soaring just as many other members of the population are feeling the economic cost of the Covid-19 pandemic .
Unsurprisingly , calls are increasing for a form of refund for insurance customers .
In a letter to Rishi Sunak last weekend , a 27-strong cross-party group of MPs urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure that UK car insurance companies repay some , or where appropriate all , of premiums to customers ” .
“ Car insurers have reported an almost 50 % drop in claims during lockdown , ” the letter said .
“ Furthermore , the UK government has stated that driving is down by 75 % as a result of lockdown .
Accordingly , it has been calculated that insurers are set to make £1bn profit from all of the motorists who can not drive right now.
” The MPs argue that UK insurers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counterparts in the US , where 82 % of car insurers have announced they will be refunding or crediting drivers a total of more than $ 6.5bn over the next two months , according to a recent report from the Consumer Federation of America .
However , as Forbes notes , the UK government “ may be reluctant to intervene in a commercially sensitive market such as car insurance , especially given the complexity of achieving an equitable solution embracing numerous providers and over 25 million drivers ” .
Fortunately for some UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has responded to the demands without government intervention .
Admiral this week became the first UK car insurance company to offer a direct refund to its customers - a £25 rebate for the 4.4 million cars and vans it covered as of 20 April , amounting to a total £110m return to policyholders .
“ We want to give the money we would have used to pay claims back to our loyal customers in this difficult time .
We have also already reflected this change in driving behaviour in our pricing for customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said Cristina Nestares , the chief executive of UK insurance at Admiral .
The Guardian reports : “ Admiral has pledged a further £80m , mainly to reduce prices , with the biggest cuts to benefit renewing customers with above-average premiums , such as younger drivers .
Some of the money will go towards measures to support NHS staff , as well as a £4m Covid-19 support fund in south Wales , where Admiral is based.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The BBC adds that other insurers are now “ under pressure to follow suit ” .
Gareth Shaw , head of money at Which ?
, said : “ People will remember how businesses treated them during this crisis , and Admiral ’ s decision to provide partial refunds to all of its car and van policyholders will certainly be welcomed by customers experiencing unforeseen pressure on their finances .
Firms that act fairly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the future , and we encourage all other car insurers to follow Admiral ’ s lead .
”

The coronavirus lockdown order has left drivers and their families stuck at home, with vehicles parked and unused.
And with roads far less busy, fewer accidents are occurring, which means fewer claims - resulting in big savings for insurance companies.
Indeed, insurers’ profits are soaring just as many other members of the population are feeling the economic cost of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Unsurprisingly, calls are increasing for a form of refund for insurance customers.
In a letter to Rishi Sunak last weekend, a 27-strong cross-party group of MPs urged the chancellor to “take action to ensure that UK car insurance companies repay some, or where appropriate all, of premiums to customers”.
“Car insurers have reported an almost 50% drop in claims during lockdown,” the letter said. “Furthermore, the UK government has stated that driving is down by 75% as a result of lockdown. Accordingly, it has been calculated that insurers are set to make £1bn profit from all of the motorists who cannot drive right now.”
The MPs argue that UK insurers should follow the lead set by their counterparts in the US, where 82% of car insurers have announced they will be refunding or crediting drivers a total of more than $6.5bn over the next two months, according to a recent report from the Consumer Federation of America.
However, as Forbes notes, the UK government “may be reluctant to intervene in a commercially sensitive market such as car insurance, especially given the complexity of achieving an equitable solution embracing numerous providers and over 25 million drivers”.
Fortunately for some UK drivers, at least one major insurer has responded to the demands without government intervention.
Admiral this week became the first UK car insurance company to offer a direct refund to its customers - a £25 rebate for the 4.4 million cars and vans it covered as of 20 April, amounting to a total £110m return to policyholders.
“We want to give the money we would have used to pay claims back to our loyal customers in this difficult time. We have also already reflected this change in driving behaviour in our pricing for customers and will continue to do so,” said Cristina Nestares, the chief executive of UK insurance at Admiral.
The Guardian reports: “Admiral has pledged a further £80m, mainly to reduce prices, with the biggest cuts to benefit renewing customers with above-average premiums, such as younger drivers. Some of the money will go towards measures to support NHS staff, as well as a £4m Covid-19 support fund in south Wales, where Admiral is based.”
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The BBC adds that other insurers are now “under pressure to follow suit”.
Gareth Shaw, head of money at Which?, said: “People will remember how businesses treated them during this crisis, and Admiral’s decision to provide partial refunds to all of its car and van policyholders will certainly be welcomed by customers experiencing unforeseen pressure on their finances. Firms that act fairly now may see that they are rewarded in the future, and we encourage all other car insurers to follow Admiral’s lead.”


theweekuk--2020-04-23--How is Russia coping in the pandemic?

How is Russia coping in the pandemic?


theweekuk--2020-04-22--Wine of the week: a very special pinot noir from New Zealand

A few weeks ago , I enjoyed a fantastic morning tasting Michael Seresin ’ s new releases .
If you recognise his name , but can not quite place it , everything will fall into place when I take you away from the wine world and drop you on a film set .
Michael is the renowned cinematographer responsible for such classics as Bugsy Malone , Midnight Express , Birdy , Angel Heart , Angela ’ s Ashes and more recently Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and two Planet of the Apes pictures .
A passionate Kiwi , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ founded Seresin in 1992 and he was one of the first high-profile people to embrace organic winegrowing .
He has recently refocused his vinous exploits and he has trimmed his portfolio , too .
The results are the most elegant and refined releases I have ever tasted from this brand .
Leah is grassy and firm with near-cabernet franc freshness and , given that this is a bold pinot noir , you will sense that it is a unique and very special wine .
The fruit is direct , pure and resonant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a single sip .
Also track down a 2018 Seresin Sauvignon Blanc ( £19.50 , greatwesternwine.co.uk ; £17.99 , nzhouseofwine.co.uk ) because it is terrific .
With 8 % semillon in the mix and 15 % neutral oak tucked into its shimmering chassis , this is a crisp , tight wine which leans on its wondrous Raupo Creek ingredients .
This article was originally published in MoneyWeek

A few weeks ago, I enjoyed a fantastic morning tasting Michael Seresin’s new releases. If you recognise his name, but cannot quite place it, everything will fall into place when I take you away from the wine world and drop you on a film set.
Michael is the renowned cinematographer responsible for such classics as Bugsy Malone, Midnight Express, Birdy, Angel Heart, Angela’s Ashes and more recently Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and two Planet of the Apes pictures.
A passionate Kiwi, planet-loving and pioneering, too, Michael founded Seresin in 1992 and he was one of the first high-profile people to embrace organic winegrowing. He has recently refocused his vinous exploits and he has trimmed his portfolio, too. The results are the most elegant and refined releases I have ever tasted from this brand.
Leah is grassy and firm with near-cabernet franc freshness and, given that this is a bold pinot noir, you will sense that it is a unique and very special wine. The fruit is direct, pure and resonant and it sums up Michael’s intent in a single sip.
Also track down a 2018 Seresin Sauvignon Blanc (£19.50, greatwesternwine.co.uk; £17.99, nzhouseofwine.co.uk) because it is terrific. With 8% semillon in the mix and 15% neutral oak tucked into its shimmering chassis, this is a crisp, tight wine which leans on its wondrous Raupo Creek ingredients.
2017 Seresin Leah Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand – about £22.50, greatwesternwine.co.uk, nzhouseofwine.co.uk, noblegreenwines.co.uk, thedrinkshop.com
This article was originally published in MoneyWeek


theweekuk--2020-04-22--Japandi style: create a Zen living space at home

It ’ s fair to say that the 9 to 5 grind has taken an unusual turn recently with millions of people now working full-time from home .
Routines may have changed dramatically but the demands of the working life continue with new “ issues ” such as keeping the kids entertained while juggling a full schedule of online video meetings .
As more time is now spent at home , our personal space has become more important than ever .
Homes are not just for living in - it ’ s also a place for work , school and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s vital to have an area where you can escape and wind down after a long day or week at the “ office ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Less is more : Japandi-style Zen living spaces The creation of a Zen living space is essential to enjoying time indoors and to continue being productive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise of Japandi - a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian interior design styles - in creating clean , calm and harmonious indoor spaces .
According to smart furniture and interior design online platform Pepper Sq , each detail of Japandi style is filled with Zen philosophy and the look is minimal , functional , warm and calming ; with touches of Wabi-Sabi enthused imperfection .
“ Less is more ” is the key concept of Japandi style with a major focus on simple shapes , light colours , and natural elements such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your own sanctuary Pepper Sq has introduced a furniture range aimed to inspire the creation of a balanced space to bring calmness , joy and happiness to your home .
The collection combines lights , rugs and natural wooden furniture - spiced up with contrasting darker tones .
“ Creating Japandic style , we have to focus on the natural materials as a key feature , ” the design team at Pepper Sq explain .
“ Walls , doors , screen grids and frames are all made of natural wood .
In order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it ’ s recommended to use light woods such as beech , ash , pine , and light oak .
“ These woods help to make not only hygge vibe [ Scandinavian designation of cosiness and feeling of contentment ] , but also will be a material , which will keep your home warm during cold winters .
“ Warmth and comfort will be complemented also by adding to the interior such natural fabrics , as cotton and wool , which could be used as curtains , blankets or decorative pillows .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sustainable materials , such as bamboo .
Bamboo furnishings are lightweight , durable , compact in size and allow to create unique elegant shapes.
” Sculptured wooden lamps can be used as a room divider or screen for bedrooms .
Jute and Sisal rug collections are a perfect addition to complete the look .
This will not overload the eye but make the space light and warm .
The Fraser Desk produced from sustainable bamboo is designed for confined spaces and transforms even small areas into both elegant and functional workplaces .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Folding chair , it will pair perfectly to create a comfortable and harmonious working area .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

It’s fair to say that the 9 to 5 grind has taken an unusual turn recently with millions of people now working full-time from home.
Routines may have changed dramatically but the demands of the working life continue with new “issues” such as keeping the kids entertained while juggling a full schedule of online video meetings.
As more time is now spent at home, our personal space has become more important than ever. Homes are not just for living in - it’s also a place for work, school and relaxation.
That’s why it’s vital to have an area where you can escape and wind down after a long day or week at the “office”.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Less is more: Japandi-style Zen living spaces
The creation of a Zen living space is essential to enjoying time indoors and to continue being productive at work.
This has seen the rise of Japandi - a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian interior design styles - in creating clean, calm and harmonious indoor spaces.
According to smart furniture and interior design online platform Pepper Sq, each detail of Japandi style is filled with Zen philosophy and the look is minimal, functional, warm and calming; with touches of Wabi-Sabi enthused imperfection.
“Less is more” is the key concept of Japandi style with a major focus on simple shapes, light colours, and natural elements such as wood and plants.
How to create your own sanctuary
Pepper Sq has introduced a furniture range aimed to inspire the creation of a balanced space to bring calmness, joy and happiness to your home.
The collection combines lights, rugs and natural wooden furniture - spiced up with contrasting darker tones.
“Creating Japandic style, we have to focus on the natural materials as a key feature,” the design team at Pepper Sq explain.
“Walls, doors, screen grids and frames are all made of natural wood. In order to maintain the light and colour balance, it’s recommended to use light woods such as beech, ash, pine, and light oak.
“These woods help to make not only hygge vibe [Scandinavian designation of cosiness and feeling of contentment], but also will be a material, which will keep your home warm during cold winters.
“Warmth and comfort will be complemented also by adding to the interior such natural fabrics, as cotton and wool, which could be used as curtains, blankets or decorative pillows.
“Another Japandic trend is the usage of sustainable materials, such as bamboo. Bamboo furnishings are lightweight, durable, compact in size and allow to create unique elegant shapes.”
Get the Japandi style
Sculptured wooden lamps can be used as a room divider or screen for bedrooms. Jute and Sisal rug collections are a perfect addition to complete the look. This will not overload the eye but make the space light and warm.
The Fraser Desk produced from sustainable bamboo is designed for confined spaces and transforms even small areas into both elegant and functional workplaces.
In combination with a beautifully crafted Copen Folding chair, it will pair perfectly to create a comfortable and harmonious working area.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


theweekuk--2020-04-22--World Press Photo 2020: the most striking images

The World Press Photo Foundation has announced the winners of its annual photo and photo story contest .
The Amsterdam-based organisation , which has been celebrating international professional photographers sine 1955 , has released a book showing the most striking images of 2019 .
The photo contest winners were chosen by an independent jury that looked at nearly 74,000 photographs entered by more than 4,000 photographs from 125 countries .
Yasuyoshi Chiba , from Japan , won the World Press Photo of the Year 2020 with his photograph Straight Voice , showing a young man reciting protest poetry while demonstrators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sudan .
“ The place was a total blackout .
Then , unexpectedly , people started clapping hands in the dark .
People held up mobile phones to illuminate a young man in the centre .
He recited a famous protest poem , an improvised one , ” said Yasuyoshi .
“ Between his breath , everybody shouted ‘ thawra ’ , the word revolution in Arabic .
His facial expression and voice impressed me , I couldn ’ t stop focusing on him and captured the moment.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For the World Press Photo Story of the Year , the judges selected Kho , the Genesis of Revolt by Romain Laurendeau , a long-term visual account of youth struggle in Algeria .
Other entries included Nikita Teryoshin ’ s photograph Nothing Personal , showing an 18-year-old Syrian fighter , severely burnt by conflict with Turkish forces , seeing his girlfriend for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mulugeta Ayene ’ s photograph shows grieving relatives at the crash site of Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 , near Addis Ababa , Ethiopia .
The Boeing aircraft crashed near the town of Bishoftu , six minutes after takeoff , killing all 157 people aboard .
The cause of the accident is under investigation .
World Press Photo 2020 , published by Lannoo Publishers , is out on 30 April

The World Press Photo Foundation has announced the winners of its annual photo and photo story contest.
The Amsterdam-based organisation, which has been celebrating international professional photographers sine 1955, has released a book showing the most striking images of 2019.
The photo contest winners were chosen by an independent jury that looked at nearly 74,000 photographs entered by more than 4,000 photographs from 125 countries.
Yasuyoshi Chiba, from Japan, won the World Press Photo of the Year 2020 with his photograph Straight Voice, showing a young man reciting protest poetry while demonstrators chant slogans during a blackout in Khartoum, Sudan.
“The place was a total blackout. Then, unexpectedly, people started clapping hands in the dark. People held up mobile phones to illuminate a young man in the centre. He recited a famous protest poem, an improvised one,” said Yasuyoshi.
“Between his breath, everybody shouted ‘thawra’, the word revolution in Arabic. His facial expression and voice impressed me, I couldn’t stop focusing on him and captured the moment.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
For the World Press Photo Story of the Year, the judges selected Kho, the Genesis of Revolt by Romain Laurendeau, a long-term visual account of youth struggle in Algeria.
Other entries included Nikita Teryoshin’s photograph Nothing Personal, showing an 18-year-old Syrian fighter, severely burnt by conflict with Turkish forces, seeing his girlfriend for the first time since being injured.
Mulugeta Ayene’s photograph shows grieving relatives at the crash site of Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302, near Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Boeing aircraft crashed near the town of Bishoftu, six minutes after takeoff, killing all 157 people aboard. The cause of the accident is under investigation.
World Press Photo 2020, published by Lannoo Publishers, is out on 30 April


theweekuk--2020-04-22--Lockdown lock-in: virtual whisky and rum tastings, masterclasses and festivals

Pubs and bars may be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic but it doesn ’ t mean you can ’ t enjoy a tipple or two with friends - in the virtual world .
Music concerts , sporting events , theatre shows and even pub quizzes have gone virtual and now whisky and rum tastings are being held digitally .
So fill up the ice tray , order some miniatures and invite your drinking buddies to a virtual tasting , masterclass or festival .
Ten London cocktails delivered to your door during lockdown Virtual days out : best online experiences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– As part of the Master of Malt live series , Kristiane Sherry will be joined by rum expert Peter Holland , aka The Floating Rum Shack , to take you through this delicious rum offering from Drinks by the Dram .
Join in on Instagram live and ask questions as you taste .
Sets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whisky Flight tasting set - “ The Port Melbourne ” - features 30ml samples of the following four whiskies : Two Fold ; Nova ; Starward Solera ; and ( New ) Old Fashioned .
Purchase the tasting set from cocktail-connoisseurs.com for £24.95 and it will be delivered to your door .
You can then join the online masterclass and dive into the unique flavours of Australia .
Join Dave Worthington , global brand ambassador for That Boutique-y Whisky Company , as he takes you through the wonderfully weird world of Boutique-y .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Worthington will go through each and will be on hand to answer questions live as well as discussing tasting notes .
An exclusive Zoom link will be sent to those who have purchased the sets .
The Scotch ( £27.95 ) , World ( £41.95 ) and Premium ( £43.95 ) sets can be purchased at Hard to Find Whisky .
Experience a live Teeling Trinity masterclass with global brand ambassador , Rob Caldwell , from your living room .
The Teeling Trinity pack contains three Teeling whisky miniatures , a tasting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pack from Master of Malt and a link to the closed Zoom group will be sent .
Packs cost £19.95 .
• None When : various dates from Tuesday 5 May • Tickets : from £35 to £65 at designmynight.com World Whisky Awards judge and Forbes whisky writer Felipe Schrieberg leads a two-hour tasting tutorial session on Zoom .
Tickets start from £35 and include five premium Scotch whisky drams ( 5x25ml ) , one premium world whisky miniature ( 1x10ml ) and tasting notes .
It ’ s advised to book at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whisky arrives on time .
• None When : Saturday 30 May from 12.30pm to 10pm The Summerton Whisky Club celebrates the world of whisky with its virtual festival on 30 May .
The festival programme includes tastings , masterclasses , Q & A sessions , cocktail recipes and live entertainment .
A festival ticket gives access to the virtual tasting room and delivery of a festival pack which contains a range of goodies , expertly curated whisky samples , mixers and snacks .
A link to the private live feed will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Pubs and bars may be closed due to the coronavirus pandemic but it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a tipple or two with friends - in the virtual world.
Music concerts, sporting events, theatre shows and even pub quizzes have gone virtual and now whisky and rum tastings are being held digitally.
So fill up the ice tray, order some miniatures and invite your drinking buddies to a virtual tasting, masterclass or festival.
Virtual pub quiz: 15 of the hardest questions
Ten London cocktails delivered to your door during lockdown
Virtual days out: best online experiences and tours from your home
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Drinks by the Dram: live rum tasting
When: Monday 27 April at 7.30pm
Where: Instagram live @masterofmalt
As part of the Master of Malt live series, Kristiane Sherry will be joined by rum expert Peter Holland, aka The Floating Rum Shack, to take you through this delicious rum offering from Drinks by the Dram. Join in on Instagram live and ask questions as you taste. Sets cost £24.25 from masterofmalt.com
Starward Australian whisky masterclass
The Starward Australian Whisky Flight tasting set - “The Port Melbourne” - features 30ml samples of the following four whiskies: Two Fold; Nova; Starward Solera; and (New) Old Fashioned. Purchase the tasting set from cocktail-connoisseurs.com for £24.95 and it will be delivered to your door. You can then join the online masterclass and dive into the unique flavours of Australia.
That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Scotch Whisky: Wednesday 29 April at 7.30pm
World Whisky: Wednesday 6 May at 7.30pm
Premium Scotch Whisky: Wednesday 13 May at 7.30pm
Join Dave Worthington, global brand ambassador for That Boutique-y Whisky Company, as he takes you through the wonderfully weird world of Boutique-y. Working your way through the dram sets, Worthington will go through each and will be on hand to answer questions live as well as discussing tasting notes. An exclusive Zoom link will be sent to those who have purchased the sets. The Scotch (£27.95), World (£41.95) and Premium (£43.95) sets can be purchased at Hard to Find Whisky.
Teeling Trinity Tasting
Thursday 30 April: Master of Malt at 7pm
Experience a live Teeling Trinity masterclass with global brand ambassador, Rob Caldwell, from your living room. The Teeling Trinity pack contains three Teeling whisky miniatures, a tasting mat and tasting notes. Purchase a pack from Master of Malt and a link to the closed Zoom group will be sent. Packs cost £19.95.
The Live Virtual Whisky Masterclass with Felipe Schrieberg
When: various dates from Tuesday 5 May
Tickets: from £35 to £65 at designmynight.com
World Whisky Awards judge and Forbes whisky writer Felipe Schrieberg leads a two-hour tasting tutorial session on Zoom. Tickets start from £35 and include five premium Scotch whisky drams (5x25ml), one premium world whisky miniature (1x10ml) and tasting notes. It’s advised to book at least a week in advance so the whisky arrives on time.
Summerton Virtual Whisky Festival
When: Saturday 30 May from 12.30pm to 10pm
Ticket price: from £38
The Summerton Whisky Club celebrates the world of whisky with its virtual festival on 30 May. The festival programme includes tastings, masterclasses, Q&A sessions, cocktail recipes and live entertainment. A festival ticket gives access to the virtual tasting room and delivery of a festival pack which contains a range of goodies, expertly curated whisky samples, mixers and snacks. A link to the private live feed will be emailed the day before the festival commences.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Sport shorts: Bundesliga ready to return on 9 May - if German government approves

German football ’ s Bundesliga is ready to resume fixtures on 9 May - if the government and health authorities approve plans .
The Daily Mail reports that matches in Germany ’ s top two divisions would continue behind closed doors and 25,000 coronavirus tests costing £2.2m have been ordered .
Bundesliga chief executive Christian Seifert said : “ The Bundesliga is ready to resume , no matter whether on 9 May or a later date .
But it ’ s not up to us to find a date .
The political decision makers decide .
“ We have not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that we are even able to think about resuming games underlines the performance of the German authorities .
“ It would be presumptuous for the DFL to name an exact date for the restart .
It ’ s not in our hands if we return or when .
We have several options .
If the signal comes in the next week that it can be 9 May , then it will be 9 May.
” The Daily Mail also reports that Uefa has told the Premier League to “ finish the season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fixtures are not able to be completed this summer then one-off ties could be used to decide Champions League positions and relegation spots .
In a statement Uefa said it is “ preferable that suspended domestic competitions would restart with a different format in a manner which would still facilitate clubs to qualify on sporting merit ” .
Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle has resigned from the position after ten former Australia captains signed a letter demanding a change in leadership , the BBC reports .
She said : “ It has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board believes my no longer being the CEO would help give them the clear air they believe they need .
The game is bigger than any one individual - so I told the chair [ Paul McLean ] that I would resign from the role.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 2020 NFL Draft starts tonight and all eyes will be on the Cincinnati Bengals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League sources have told ESPN that the Miami Dolphins have contacted Cincinnati “ multiple times ” regarding a trade but the Bengals don ’ t want to give up the top spot .
The 2020 NFL Draft will be shown live on Sky Sports Action from 10pm .
Turner Sports has confirmed that golf and NFL legends will play in a charity golf match to raise money to benefit Covid-19 relief .
Tiger Woods and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning will go head-to-head with Phil Mickelson and Tampa Bay QB Tom Brady in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” in May .
Uefa has confirmed that the 2021 Women ’ s European Championships in England will now take place from 6-31 July 2022 .
Aleksander Ceferin , Uefa president , said : “ By moving to the following year , we are ensuring that our flagship women ’ s competition will be the only major football tournament of the summer.
” Phil Neville is set to leave his role as manager of the England women ’ s team in the summer of 2021 .
Several newspapers pre-empt the Football Association with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Everton star will not sign another contract .
A new boss will therefore take the reins for the Uefa Women ’ s European Championship in 2022 .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Rugby union is “ too old and white ” .
That ’ s the headline on the back page of The Times today .
The words are attributed to Agustín Pichot , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chairman of World Rugby .
Pichot ’ s comments will be interpreted as a dig at the incumbent , 68-year-old Englishman Bill Beaumont , his rival in Sunday ’ s election to appoint a new chairman of the sport ’ s governing body .
Australian jockey Luke Tarrant has been banned for six months after headbutting rival rider Larry Cassidy in an altercation following a race at Doomben .
A stewards ’ report stated that Tarrant ’ s helmet “ made contact with the nose ” of Cassidy .
Wayne Rooney ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the back page of the Daily Mail with the paper claiming that the former England skipper is leading Derby County ’ s revolt against the plan to defer the squad ’ s wages by 50 % .
It ’ s reported that Rooney has told Derby chief executive officer Stephen Pearce that the squad are prepared to accept no more than a 25 % pay cut .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine @ @ @ @ @ @

1. Bundesliga is ready
German football’s Bundesliga is ready to resume fixtures on 9 May - if the government and health authorities approve plans.
The Daily Mail reports that matches in Germany’s top two divisions would continue behind closed doors and 25,000 coronavirus tests costing £2.2m have been ordered.
Bundesliga chief executive Christian Seifert said: “The Bundesliga is ready to resume, no matter whether on 9 May or a later date. But it’s not up to us to find a date. The political decision makers decide.
“We have not defined an exact date today. The fact that we are even able to think about resuming games underlines the performance of the German authorities.
“It would be presumptuous for the DFL to name an exact date for the restart. It’s not in our hands if we return or when. We have several options. If the signal comes in the next week that it can be 9 May, then it will be 9 May.”
2. Prem play-offs?
The Daily Mail also reports that Uefa has told the Premier League to “finish the season... or use play-offs”.
If fixtures are not able to be completed this summer then one-off ties could be used to decide Champions League positions and relegation spots.
In a statement Uefa said it is “preferable that suspended domestic competitions would restart with a different format in a manner which would still facilitate clubs to qualify on sporting merit”.
3. Rugby Australia CEO quits
Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle has resigned from the position after ten former Australia captains signed a letter demanding a change in leadership, the BBC reports.
She said: “It has been made clear to me that the board believes my no longer being the CEO would help give them the clear air they believe they need. The game is bigger than any one individual - so I told the chair [Paul McLean] that I would resign from the role.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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. Bengals won’t trade No.1 pick
The 2020 NFL Draft starts tonight and all eyes will be on the Cincinnati Bengals, who have the No.1 pick.


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Scotland’s plan for ending the coronavirus lockdown

Scotland ’ s first minister has laid out a blueprint for how the country plans to lift its coronavirus lockdown measures , ramping up pressure on Westminster to do the same .
In a document published on the Scottish government ’ s website , Nicola Sturgeon set out how the country ’ s parliament will go about easing restrictions , but warned that the measures may be reimposed multiple times with “ little notice ” .
And while it did not explicitly lay out a timetable for measures to be lifted , the document also states that “ now is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown , as the country ’ s death toll hit 1,120 on Thursday after another 58 deaths were reported , says ITV News .
But what is Scotland ’ s plan , and could Westminster follow suit ?
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Telegraph reports that earlier today , Sturgeon became the “ first leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin lifting lockdown ” by publishing a 26-page document .
In it , the Scottish government says that it will first attempt to suppress the virus through compliance with physical distancing and hygiene measures , ensuring that the virus ’ s R value remains below one .
It also states that it will provide care to those who need it , whether infected by the virus or not , as well as supporting people , businesses and organisations affected by the crisis .
The government will also aim to recover to a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do so while maintaining necessary measures , and using lessons learned during this pandemic to protect against future events , including through effective testing , contact tracing and isolation .
It then plans to “ Renew ” the country through green initiatives and social programmes , concluding : “ We can work together to design the Scotland we want to emerge from this crisis.
” The document warns that attending pubs or public events will be “ banned or restricted for some time to come ” – without giving a detailed timetable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ warns the public to expect a cycle of lifting and re-imposing restrictions , with the possibility of restrictions being re-imposed quickly if transmission suddenly escalates ” .
What does this mean for the rest of the UK ?
Sturgeon said she isn ’ t currently focused on “ whether we have a Scottish approach or a UK wide approach ” , but was instead aiming for one that was “ the best approach to tackling this virus ” .
However , the blueprint says it was “ unlikely ” the virus could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of surveillance of those coming into the country from elsewhere ” – an addition the Telegraph calls a “ direct warning to Boris Johnson ” .
It also says Scotland supports “ early and rapid testing to confirm cases ” and “ tracing of everyone a confirmed case has been in contact with ” .
“ Increasing our testing capacity is a critical part of this challenge , ” the paper adds , another potential jab at the response so far from Downing Street .
The Independent says Scotland ’ s plans are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Westminster ” , where “ ministers have refused to set out their plans for easing the lockdown amid fears it could confuse the message to the public to stay at home ” .
The paper adds that the cabinet is currently “ divided ” over the best approach for lifting measures , with “ more hawkish ministers such as the chancellor Rishi Sunak deeply concerned about the economic devastation caused by a lengthy lockdown ” .

Scotland’s first minister has laid out a blueprint for how the country plans to lift its coronavirus lockdown measures, ramping up pressure on Westminster to do the same.
In a document published on the Scottish government’s website, Nicola Sturgeon set out how the country’s parliament will go about easing restrictions, but warned that the measures may be reimposed multiple times with “little notice”.
And while it did not explicitly lay out a timetable for measures to be lifted, the document also states that “now is not the right time” to end the lockdown, as the country’s death toll hit 1,120 on Thursday after another 58 deaths were reported, says ITV News.
But what is Scotland’s plan, and could Westminster follow suit?
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
What did Nicola Sturgeon announce today?
The Telegraph reports that earlier today, Sturgeon became the “first leader in the Union to announce plans to begin lifting lockdown” by publishing a 26-page document.
In it, the Scottish government says that it will first attempt to suppress the virus through compliance with physical distancing and hygiene measures, ensuring that the virus’s R value remains below one.
It also states that it will provide care to those who need it, whether infected by the virus or not, as well as supporting people, businesses and organisations affected by the crisis.
The government will also aim to recover to a new normal, carefully easing restrictions when safe to do so while maintaining necessary measures, and using lessons learned during this pandemic to protect against future events, including through effective testing, contact tracing and isolation.
It then plans to “Renew” the country through green initiatives and social programmes, concluding: “We can work together to design the Scotland we want to emerge from this crisis.”
The document warns that attending pubs or public events will be “banned or restricted for some time to come” – without giving a detailed timetable.
The Guardian reports that the document “warns the public to expect a cycle of lifting and re-imposing restrictions, with the possibility of restrictions being re-imposed quickly if transmission suddenly escalates”.
What does this mean for the rest of the UK?
Sturgeon said she isn’t currently focused on “whether we have a Scottish approach or a UK wide approach”, but was instead aiming for one that was “the best approach to tackling this virus”.
However, the blueprint says it was “unlikely” the virus could be contained domestically “without some form of surveillance of those coming into the country from elsewhere” – an addition the Telegraph calls a “direct warning to Boris Johnson”.
It also says Scotland supports “early and rapid testing to confirm cases” and “tracing of everyone a confirmed case has been in contact with”.
“Increasing our testing capacity is a critical part of this challenge,” the paper adds, another potential jab at the response so far from Downing Street.
The Independent says Scotland’s plans are now “at odds with the approach in Westminster”, where “ministers have refused to set out their plans for easing the lockdown amid fears it could confuse the message to the public to stay at home”.
The paper adds that the cabinet is currently “divided” over the best approach for lifting measures, with “more hawkish ministers such as the chancellor Rishi Sunak deeply concerned about the economic devastation caused by a lengthy lockdown”.


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Coronavirus blur: why we might not remember the lockdown


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Mass graves: how Brazil was dragged towards ‘coronavirus calamity’

Brazil has wiped an official site detailing its Covid-19 data and stopped releasing total numbers of cases and deaths.
The Latin American country currently has the world’s second-highest number of cases and the third-highest number of deaths, according to latest figures, having recently overtaken hard-hit Italy.
On Friday night, a health ministry site was taken offline, and returned on Saturday with daily numbers available, but without the cumulative number of deaths and confirmed cases.
Health ministry insiders told local media the move was ordered by President Jair Bolsonaro himself, said The Guardian, raising concerns about his continual neglect of the spiralling situation.
Federal prosecutors announced an investigation on Saturday, giving the interim health minister 72 hours to explain the move. President Bolsonaro, who has flouted isolation measures and called the coronavirus a “little flu”, tweeted that the data was “adapted” because it did not “portray the moment the country is in”.
How is coronavirus affecting Brazil?
As of 9 June, more than 37,000 people are thought to have died in Brazil after being infected with Covid-19. The country has recorded more than 707,000 cases, the first of which was confirmed on 26 February.
This makes Brazil the country with the highest rate of victims and confirmed cases in Latin America. It has more than double those of Peru, in a distant second place.
The Daily Mirror, however, says it is believed some victims may not feature in the figures because they were not tested after they died.
The Sun notes that upwards of 13 million people in Brazil live in crowded “favelas”, or shanty towns, where social distancing is nearly impossible and basic sanitation is lacking, meaning the virus may be nowhere near its peak in the country yet.
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Is this Jair Bolsonaro’s fault?
President Jair Bolsonaro has come in for much criticism for his attitude towards fighting the virus.
The Guardian reported earlier in April that Bolsonaro was “one of just four world leaders still downplaying the threat of coronavirus to public health, alongside the authoritarian presidents of Nicaragua, Belarus and Turkmenistan”.


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Does nicotine protect against coronavirus?

Coronavirus patients and front-line medics are to be given nicotine patches in clinical trials to see whether smoking may cut the risk of contracting the Covid-19 coronavirus .
The move comes after a newly published French study found that the proportion of smokers who tested positive for the infection was much lower than that in the general population .
The trials are awaiting the approval of France ’ s health authorities , The Guardian reports .
What does the study say ?
Researchers from the Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital and Universite Pierre et Marie Curie in Paris questioned 480 patients confirmed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 350 were hospitalised , while the rest were allowed home .
The analysis found that of those admitted to hospital , 4.4 % were regular smokers , with a median age of 65 .
Among those sent home , 5.3 % smoked , with a median age of 44 .
By comparison , among the general population , smokers make up around 40 % of people between the ages of 44 and 53 , and around 11 % of those aged 65 to 75 , according to estimates by the French health authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ French capital show that of 11,000 patients of all ages admitted to hospital with Covid-19 , 8.5 % were smokers .
The total number of smokers in France is estimated at around 25.4 % .
The study authors write : “ Our cross-sectional study strongly suggests that those who smoke every day are much less likely to develop a symptomatic or severe infection with Sars-CoV-2 compared with the general population .
“ The effect is significant .
It divides the risk by five for ambulatory patients and by four for those admitted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medicine.
” Neurobiologist Jean-Pierre Changeux , who reviewed the study , has suggested that nicotine in cigarettes may hinder the virus from entering the body ’ s cells .
Experts say that the chemical may also “ lessen the overreaction of the body ’ s immune system that has been found in the most severe cases of Covid-19 infection ” , The Guardian adds .
Has this link been made before ?
Yes , other studies have also revealed a lower rate of coronavirus infection among smokers .
For example , a study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Medicine in February found that smokers accounted for 12.6 % of a sample of 1,100 Covid-19 patients in China , despite making up around 28 % of the general population .
However , some experts believe that cigarettes can increase the risk of contracting the disease .
The US Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) told Bloomberg this week that “ people who smoke cigarettes may be at increased risk of infection with the virus that causes Covid-19 , and may have worse outcomes from Covid-19 ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Although the Paris researchers ’ findings suggest that nicotine may help fend off the coronavirus , “ the team says it is not advocating that anyone start smoking , because cigarettes have fatal health risks ” , the Daily Mail reports .
As The Guardian notes , smoking is estimated to kill around 50 % of people who take up the habit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ French experts emphasise that “ while nicotine may protect those from the virus ” , smokers who do become infected often develop more serious symptoms because of the damaging effects of tobacco smoke on their lungs .


theweekuk--2020-04-23--Are US-Iran tensions flaring again?

Are US-Iran tensions flaring again?

The US and Iranian governments are at odds again after Donald Trump threatened military action against the Middle Eastern state .
The US president posted the warning to the Iranian navy on Twitter on Wednesday , saying : “ I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea.
” The president seemed to be reacting to a confrontation on 15 April , when the US military said numerous small craft from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) sped within yards of US warships @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of “ dangerous and harassing approaches ” .
“ We don ’ t want their gunboats surrounding our boats , and travelling around our boats and having a good time , ” Trump told reporters .
“ We ’ re not going to stand for it… They ’ ll shoot them out of the water , ” reports Sky News .
Trump ’ s declaration changes the rules of engagement for US vessels , which normally have to be under direct threat to use lethal force .
CNN has a theory as to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it did .
“ Roughly a half hour before Trump tweeted Wednesday , Fox & Friends , which Trump regularly watches , aired a segment about the incident , as well as a report on Iran launching its first military satellite into orbit , ” it said .
While the hostilities between the two countries far predates the Covid-19 pandemic , The New York Times speculates that the current rise in tensions may not be totally disconnected .
“ At home , the Iranian government and Mr. Trump ’ s administration have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus , and leaders in both nations may calculate that there is an advantage to reigniting confrontations with old adversaries , ” the newspaper says .
As the oil industry relies so heavily on tankers passing freely from oil-producing gulf nations through the Strait of Hormuz , and out into the open ocean , any chance of disruption in the region raises the price of oil reliably .
With the oil industry reeling from the freefall in prices caused by the now-ended oil war , and more significantly by the demand-vaporising coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following Trump ’ s tweet .
What has the reaction been ?
Iran responded with its own threat , saying they are prepared to destroy American warships if their security is threatened in the Persian Gulf .
The head of the IRGC , Hossein Salami , said : “ I have ordered our naval forces to destroy any American terrorist force in the Persian Gulf that threatens security of Iran ’ s military or non-military ships .
Security of the Persian Gulf is part of Iran ’ s strategic priorities .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolutely determined and serious in defending our national security , our water borders , our shipping safety , and our security forces , and we will respond decisively to any sabotage .
Americans have experienced our power in the past and must learn from it.
” Despite Iran ’ s threats , Trump ’ s allies have supported his message .
The vice-chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff , General John Hyten , said Trump ’ s tweet was a useful warning to Iran .
He said Iranian naval activity last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harassment from the fastboats , ” he said .
“ You put those two things together and it ’ s just more examples of Iranian malign behaviour and misbehaviour , ” ITV News reports .
“ The president issued an important warning to the Iranians , ” David Norquist , the deputy secretary of defence , said at a Pentagon news conference when asked about the tweet .
“ What he was emphasising is , all of our ships retain the right of self-defence.
” But General Abolfazl Shekarchi , a spokesperson for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump of “ bullying ” and said he should focus on the US coronavirus problem , says Sky News .
Why are the two countries so hostile to each other ?
Trump ’ s strident announcement was consistent with his administration ’ s “ maximum pressure ” Iran approach .
He has talked openly about restoring deterrence against the Middle Eastern nation , and considers the previous administration ’ s purportedly lenient approach to have allowed Tehran to become too assertive .
It was in this vein that the US killed Iranian major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Specifically , as a presidential candidate in 2016 , Trump said at a rally that when Iranians “ circle our beautiful destroyers with their little boats… they will be shot out of the water ” .
“ Mr Trump has frequently said any US retaliation to serious Iranian actions would be swift and significant , ” reports the Financial Times .
“ But US defence officials are concerned that Iran is prepared to bear losses from any US military response if it helped Tehran achieve its strategic goal of forcing the US from @ @ @ @


theweekuk--2020-04-24--The corner of the UK that was ‘perfectly primed’ for coronavirus


theweekuk--2020-04-24--Covid-19 tests: who can get one and how to apply

Millions of key workers can book a coronavirus test online or through their employer from today , the UK government has announced .
Speaking on Thursday at the government ’ s daily briefing , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that all essential workers in England and anyone in their households would be able to register for tests on the government ’ s official website if they have Covid-19 symptoms .
Expanding the testing programme is part of a plan to get Britain “ back on her feet ” , he added .
However , many workers rushing to sign up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the applications portal on gov.uk was closed owing to a surge in demand .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Who can get tested ?
According to the BBC , up to ten million key workers and their households are now eligible for testing .
Those who can register include NHS and social care workers , police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice system , supermarket and food production staff , journalists and transport workers .
The government has said that testing is most effective within three days of symptoms - which include a high temperature or a new continuous cough - developing , Sky News reports .
Why has testing been expanded ?
The Guardian suggests that Hancock is “ desperate to meet a target for testing 100,000 people per day by Thursday 30 April ” , but adds that the health boss is still a “ long way off achieving that ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ arbitrary and overambitious , but Hancock is determined to meet it ” , the newspaper says .
The minister told press at yesterday ’ s briefing that UK testing capacity had increased from 40,000 to 51,000 , putting the scheme “ ahead of our plans ” to double this new total by the end of the month .
“ Because capacity has now increased so substantially , we are now able to expand who can get the tests , ” he said .
“ Our ultimate goal is that everyone who could benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Essential workers can enter their details on the government website and should then receive an email or text the same day inviting them to book a test .
Applicants can “ choose between booking an appointment at one of more than 30 regional drive-through test sites or being sent a home test kit ” , Sky News reports .
Hancock said that people who can not go online can book a test through their employer , who may apply on the government ’ s website to get a test for any essential workers @ @ @ @

Millions of key workers can book a coronavirus test online or through their employer from today, the UK government has announced.
Speaking on Thursday at the government’s daily briefing, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that all essential workers in England and anyone in their households would be able to register for tests on the government’s official website if they have Covid-19 symptoms.
Expanding the testing programme is part of a plan to get Britain “back on her feet”, he added. However, many workers rushing to sign up were left frustrated on Friday morning, after the applications portal on gov.uk was closed owing to a surge in demand.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Who can get tested?
According to the BBC, up to ten million key workers and their households are now eligible for testing.
Those who can register include NHS and social care workers, police officers, teachers, employees in the justice system, supermarket and food production staff, journalists and transport workers.
The government has said that testing is most effective within three days of symptoms - which include a high temperature or a new continuous cough - developing, Sky News reports.
Why has testing been expanded?
The Guardian suggests that Hancock is “desperate to meet a target for testing 100,000 people per day by Thursday 30 April”, but adds that the health boss is still a “long way off achieving that”.
This target “has been dismissed as arbitrary and overambitious, but Hancock is determined to meet it”, the newspaper says.
The minister told press at yesterday’s briefing that UK testing capacity had increased from 40,000 to 51,000, putting the scheme “ahead of our plans” to double this new total by the end of the month.
“Because capacity has now increased so substantially, we are now able to expand who can get the tests,” he said. “Our ultimate goal is that everyone who could benefit from a test gets a test.”
How do I apply?
Essential workers can enter their details on the government website and should then receive an email or text the same day inviting them to book a test.
Applicants can “choose between booking an appointment at one of more than 30 regional drive-through test sites or being sent a home test kit”, Sky News reports.
Hancock said that people who cannot go online can book a test through their employer, who may apply on the government’s website to get a test for any essential workers on their staff.


theweekuk--2020-04-24--Five-star food: dessert recipes created by chefs from luxury hotels

The main course has been eaten and the plates have been cleared - now it ’ s time for dessert .
In our other five-star food guide chefs from luxury hotels have shared their favourite dinner dishes and below you can find recipes for some sweet treats .
Desserts on the menu include chocolate avocado mousse , Amalfi lemon tart , all-American chocolate chip cookies , comforting rice pudding and a drink-your-dessert tiramisu mocktail .
Five-star food : ten main course recipes created by chefs from luxury hotels ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Recipe by executive chef Craig Dryhurst from the Four Seasons Resort Maui .
• None Combine all ingredients in the blender , and blend until smooth and silky .
Check sweetness at the end and adjust if necessary • Portion out into containers and layer with five raspberries in each • Top with chocolate shavings and a few more raspberries , and finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon Recipe by executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - Park Lane .
• None Place the flour , icing sugar and butter in a food processor and mix until it resembles fine breadcrumbs .
Add the yolks and pulse for 10 seconds .
Pour into a bowl and bind it together by hand .
Leave it to rest in the fridge for one hour • Preheat the oven to 180°C .
Line the tart case with baking parchment and fill with baking beans .
Blind bake for 15 minutes until golden in colour .
Remove the paper and baking beans , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oven to bake for a further 5 minutes .
Brush all over the inside of the case with egg wash to seal .
Bake for another 5 minutes , then set aside • None Preheat the grill to high .
For the filling , combine the lemon zest and juice , sugar and butter in a heavy-based saucepan and heat gently until the butter has melted and the sugar dissolved .
Whisk the eggs and yolks together in a bowl , then add to the saucepan .
Stir over a medium heat until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it doesn ’ t boil or the eggs will curdle ) .
Still stirring , pour the filling into the tart case • Place the tart under the grill and cook until black dots appear on the surface of the filling .
Leave to cool and set before serving Recipe by the Ocean House in Rhode Island , USA .
• Cream the light brown sugar and sugar in a small mixer with the paddle attachment • Add the softened butter and mix to form a grainy paste • Add the eggs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Do not overmix !
• Add the remaining ingredients and mix until just combined • Drop cookies with a scoop onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper • Slightly flatten each scoop of dough and bake for 8 minutes , rotating half way Recipe by the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa in France .
• None Rinse the rice with boiling water to remove excess starch • Combine the milk , rinsed rice , sugar , zest of mandarin and lemon and all spices and bring to the boil • Once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until the rice has softened • Allow to cool and add desired amount of single cream to taste • None Boil the sugar and glucose syrup ( or honey ) with 150ml water over a high heat • Let it boil until the caramel begins to brown in colour and add in the final 500ml of water • Put in the fridge to cool and serve with rice pudding for a deliciously sweet dessert Recipe by Luca Angeli at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano .
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Start your trial subscription today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The main course has been eaten and the plates have been cleared - now it’s time for dessert.
In our other five-star food guide chefs from luxury hotels have shared their favourite dinner dishes and below you can find recipes for some sweet treats.
Desserts on the menu include chocolate avocado mousse, Amalfi lemon tart, all-American chocolate chip cookies, comforting rice pudding and a drink-your-dessert tiramisu mocktail.
Bon appétit!
Five-star food: ten main course recipes created by chefs from luxury hotels
Great British lockdown bake off: homemade bread and cake recipes
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Chocolate avocado mousse
Recipe by executive chef Craig Dryhurst from the Four Seasons Resort Maui.
Ingredients
4 ripe avocados
8 ounces organic maple syrup
2 teaspoons organic vanilla extract
4 ounces cocoa powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
12 ounces fresh raspberries
Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Method
Combine all ingredients in the blender, and blend until smooth and silky. Check sweetness at the end and adjust if necessary
Portion out into containers and layer with five raspberries in each
Top with chocolate shavings and a few more raspberries, and finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon
Amalfi lemon tart
Recipe by executive chef Theo Randall at the InterContinental London - Park Lane.
Ingredients for the pastry
250g plain flour
75g icing sugar
180g butter
2 egg yolks
Method
Place the flour, icing sugar and butter in a food processor and mix until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add the yolks and pulse for 10 seconds. Pour into a bowl and bind it together by hand. Leave it to rest in the fridge for one hour
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line the tart case with baking parchment and fill with baking beans. Blind bake for 15 minutes until golden in colour. Remove the paper and baking beans, then return the tart case to the oven to bake for a further 5 minutes. Brush all over the inside of the case with egg wash to seal. Bake for another 5 minutes, then set aside
Ingredients for the filling
Grated zest of 5 Amalfi lemons
150ml freshly squeezed Amalfi lemon juice
300g caster sugar
300g unsalted butter, chilled
6 whole organic eggs
9 organic egg yolks
Method
Preheat the grill to high. For the filling, combine the lemon zest and juice, sugar and butter in a heavy-based saucepan and heat gently until the butter has melted and the sugar dissolved. Whisk the eggs and yolks together in a bowl, then add to the saucepan. Stir over a medium heat until the custard mixture thickens (make sure it doesn’t boil or the eggs will curdle). Still stirring, pour the filling into the tart case
Place the tart under the grill and cook until black dots appear on the surface of the filling. Leave to cool and set before serving
All-American chocolate chip cookies
Recipe by the Ocean House in Rhode Island, USA.
Ingredients
1 cup, packed - light brown sugar
1/2 cup of sugar
1 cup or 2 sticks butter (unsalted; softened)
2 eggs
2 tsp coffee extract
2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1⁄4 tsp salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chunks
Method
Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C
Cream the light brown sugar and sugar in a small mixer with the paddle attachment
Add the softened butter and mix to form a grainy paste
Add the eggs and coffee extract, mixing until just blended. Do not overmix!
Add the remaining ingredients and mix until just combined
Drop cookies with a scoop onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper
Slightly flatten each scoop of dough and bake for 8 minutes, rotating half way
Comforting rice pudding dessert
Recipe by the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa in France.
Ingredients for the rice pudding
125g pudding rice
750ml milk of your choice
125g sugar
100g single cream
Zest of 1 mandarin
Zest of 1 lemon
1 vanilla pod
½ tonka bean
1 cinnamon stick
Method
Rinse the rice with boiling water to remove excess starch
Combine the milk, rinsed rice, sugar, zest of mandarin and lemon and all spices and bring to the boil
Once boiled, lower heat to a simmer until the rice has softened
Allow to cool and add desired amount of single cream to taste
Ingredients for the caramel sauce
500g sugar
150g glucose syrup (or honey)
650ml water
Method
Boil the sugar and glucose syrup (or honey) with 150ml water over a high heat
Let it boil until the caramel begins to brown in colour and add in the final 500ml of water
Put in the fridge to cool and serve with rice pudding for a deliciously sweet dessert
Drink your dessert: tiramisu mocktail or cocktail
Recipe by Luca Angeli at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons of vanilla ice cream
2cl liquid cream
2cl espresso coffee
2 teaspoons of sugar
add Baileys or Kahlua for cocktail
Method
Blend everything with 2 ice cubes
Decoration: dusting with bitter cocoa
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