theweekuk--2020-04-28--Toon takeover: US tycoon ready to buy Newcastle if Saudi bid fails

Newcastle United will be approached with a takeover bid by American media mogul Henry Mauriss if their sale to a Saudi Arabian consortium is rejected , claims the Daily Mirror .
The Magpies are the subject of a £300m bid from the Middle East with the Saudi Public Investment Fund set to take an 80 % stake in the club , but the deal has not yet been ratified by the Premier League .
Last week Amnesty International made clear its objection to Newcastle being bought by a Saudi consortium , on account of their human rights record , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s main broadcaster partners , beIN Sports , and as a result the bid is under “ intense scrutiny ” .
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Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– If the Saudi bid , which is fronted by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley , is rejected then Mauriss will step into the breach with what the Mirror claims is a £350m offer .
Apparently he has been “ negotiating with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” , and his interest remains active despite the arrival on the scene of the Middle East consortium .
The Mirror quotes an associate close to Mauriss saying : “ He ’ s a charitable and honourable man - and is desperate to become Newcastle ’ s new owner .
It ’ s a genuine bid.
” Mauriss may be genuine , says the Daily Mail , but not everyone involved in the American offer is squeaky clean .
The paper alleges that the £350m deal is being brokered by Chris Ronnie , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Direct boss Ashley ” .
Ronnie was jailed in 2014 for four years for a £1m fraud while in charge of former sportswear company JJB Sports , and the Mail - which claims he and Ashley go back a long way - says that he “ brought the American bid to the table in January , but he would have no further involvement if a deal was reached ” .
For the time being , however , Ashley is focused solely on the Saudi bid .
The Mail alleges that he is “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May ” on account of accepting Staveley ’ s letter of intent to buy and he can have no further discussions with interested partners as a result .
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Newcastle United will be approached with a takeover bid by American media mogul Henry Mauriss if their sale to a Saudi Arabian consortium is rejected, claims the Daily Mirror.
The Magpies are the subject of a £300m bid from the Middle East with the Saudi Public Investment Fund set to take an 80% stake in the club, but the deal has not yet been ratified by the Premier League.
Last week Amnesty International made clear its objection to Newcastle being bought by a Saudi consortium, on account of their human rights record, as did one of the Premier League’s main broadcaster partners, beIN Sports, and as a result the bid is under “intense scrutiny”.
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Honourable man
If the Saudi bid, which is fronted by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley, is rejected then Mauriss will step into the breach with what the Mirror claims is a £350m offer.
Apparently he has been “negotiating with current owner Mike Ashley since last year”, and his interest remains active despite the arrival on the scene of the Middle East consortium.
The Mirror quotes an associate close to Mauriss saying: “He’s a charitable and honourable man - and is desperate to become Newcastle’s new owner. It’s a genuine bid.”
Jail time
Mauriss may be genuine, says the Daily Mail, but not everyone involved in the American offer is squeaky clean.
The paper alleges that the £350m deal is being brokered by Chris Ronnie, a “disgraced close associate of Sports Direct boss Ashley”.
Ronnie was jailed in 2014 for four years for a £1m fraud while in charge of former sportswear company JJB Sports, and the Mail - which claims he and Ashley go back a long way - says that he “brought the American bid to the table in January, but he would have no further involvement if a deal was reached”.
For the time being, however, Ashley is focused solely on the Saudi bid. The Mail alleges that he is “locked into an exclusivity period until early May” on account of accepting Staveley’s letter of intent to buy and he can have no further discussions with interested partners as a result.
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theweekuk--2020-04-28--Today’s back pages: F1 set to bankroll British Grand Prix at Silverstone

The Guardian and Independent report that the Formula 1 British Grand Prix is expected to go ahead on the weekend of 18-19 July but without fans .
The Indy reproduces the letter written by Silverstone ’ s managing director Stuart Pringle to race fans who have already purchased tickets .
Pringle said : “ I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year ’ s British Grand Prix in front of fans at Silverstone… our obligations to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in preparing and delivering the event , our volunteer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course you , the amazing fans , means that this is the best , safest and only decision we could make.
” The Guardian says the Formula One Group is expected to provide the financial backing to ensure that the British Grand Prix goes ahead now that there won ’ t be any revenue from fans .
While there has been no official confirmation as yet , the Guardian has it on good authority that “ the hosting fee is to be waived and that F1 will meet the costs incurred by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its owners , the British Racing Drivers ’ Club ” .
F1 chief Chase Carey yesterday announced that the sport is targeting the Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July to start the delayed 2020 season .
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Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Sun ’ s back page is devoted to West Ham United ace Declan Rice with the paper claiming that Hammers boss David Moyes is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ All hands on Dec ” screams the Sun , claiming that West Ham are ready to offload Rice for upwards of £70m with Manchester United and Arsenal among the clubs eyeing the 21-year-old England midfielder .
But he ’ s not the only Hammer who could soon be emptying his locker .
According to the Sun , a West Ham source has told them that “ nobody is safe ” from the cull which will be triggered partly by cash flow issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic but also because boss Moyes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long term .
Toon takeover : US tycoon ready to buy Newcastle if Saudi bid fails The Times carries the confident claim from Chris Froome that he believes he can win a fifth Tour de France if the race goes ahead later this year .
Cycling ’ s most prestigious event was due to start at the end of June but that date has tentatively been pushed back to the end of August , although it is still unclear whether the French government will agree to the new schedule .
But if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month , believes he can come out on top and erase the painful memories of the crash that caused him to miss last year ’ s Tour .
“ I ’ d like to think that chances are I can do it , ” he said of the ambition of becoming only the fifth rider to win five Tours .
“ Nothing is written in stone , or given in sport but I ’ ve got the experience , loads of motivation and I want to make it happen obviously.
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Silverstone to get green light
The Guardian and Independent report that the Formula 1 British Grand Prix is expected to go ahead on the weekend of 18-19 July but without fans.
The Indy reproduces the letter written by Silverstone’s managing director Stuart Pringle to race fans who have already purchased tickets.
Pringle said: “I am extremely disappointed to tell you that we are unable to stage this year’s British Grand Prix in front of fans at Silverstone… our obligations to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in preparing and delivering the event, our volunteer marshals and race makers, and of course you, the amazing fans, means that this is the best, safest and only decision we could make.”
The Guardian says the Formula One Group is expected to provide the financial backing to ensure that the British Grand Prix goes ahead now that there won’t be any revenue from fans.
While there has been no official confirmation as yet, the Guardian has it on good authority that “the hosting fee is to be waived and that F1 will meet the costs incurred by the circuit, in effect renting it from its owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club”.
F1 chief Chase Carey yesterday announced that the sport is targeting the Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July to start the delayed 2020 season.
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West Ham to offload Rice
The Sun’s back page is devoted to West Ham United ace Declan Rice with the paper claiming that Hammers boss David Moyes is preparing to overhaul his floundering squad.
“All hands on Dec” screams the Sun, claiming that West Ham are ready to offload Rice for upwards of £70m with Manchester United and Arsenal among the clubs eyeing the 21-year-old England midfielder.
But he’s not the only Hammer who could soon be emptying his locker. According to the Sun, a West Ham source has told them that “nobody is safe” from the cull which will be triggered partly by cash flow issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic but also because boss Moyes wants to reshape the squad for the long term.
Toon takeover: US tycoon ready to buy Newcastle if Saudi bid fails
Froome’s ambition
The Times carries the confident claim from Chris Froome that he believes he can win a fifth Tour de France if the race goes ahead later this year.
Cycling’s most prestigious event was due to start at the end of June but that date has tentatively been pushed back to the end of August, although it is still unclear whether the French government will agree to the new schedule.
But if it does Froome, who turns 35 next month, believes he can come out on top and erase the painful memories of the crash that caused him to miss last year’s Tour.
“I’d like to think that chances are I can do it,” he said of the ambition of becoming only the fifth rider to win five Tours. “Nothing is written in stone, or given in sport but I’ve got the experience, loads of motivation and I want to make it happen obviously.”
Today’s sport headlines
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theweekuk--2020-04-28--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Tuesday 28 Apr 2020

The Italian government has revealed a detailed plan to begin lifting the strict coronavirus lockdown measures imposed across the country @ @ @ @ @ has been hit particularly hard by the coronavirus pandemic .
Here are the key dates @ @ @ @ @ exit plan .

Argentina stops flights until 1 September
Argentina has banned the sale of tickets for internal or international commercial flights to and from the South American nation until 1 September, in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The authorities say companies should not be allowed to sell seats on flights that may not happen because of the outbreak. Aviation industry groups say thousands of people could lose their jobs as result of the new measures in Argentina, which closed its border to non-residents in March.


theweekuk--2020-04-28--‘It was not from this world’ – Pentagon releases UFO videos

There is fresh speculation that we are not alone after the Pentagon officially released three declassified videos that show US Navy pilots encountering what appear to be UFOs .
The videos , which the Pentagon says depict “ unexplained aerial phenomena ” , had previously been leaked .
A spokesman said they were now being formally released “ to clear up any misconceptions by the public on whether or not the footage that has been circulating was real or whether or not there is more to the videos ” .
The footage shows what pilots saw during training flights in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grainy videos was recorded over the Pacific Ocean .
The second was captured off the coast of Jacksonville , Florida .
In one of the videos , a pilot exclaims : `` What the f**k is that ?
! ''
In another , an object is seen racing through the sky and begins spinning in mid-air .
“ Dude , this is a f**king drone , bro , ” a pilot says on the video .
Another says “ there 's a whole fleet of them ” .
The Guardian says the release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speculation that humans have recently interacted with extra terrestrials ” .
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Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– In 2017 , retired commander David Fravor told ABC News about the 2004 encounter with unfamiliar craft .
“ I can tell you , I think it was not from this world , '' he said .
“ I 'm not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was… after 18 years of flying , I 've seen pretty much about everything that I can see in that realm , and this was nothing close.
” Former senator , Harry Reid , welcomed the Pentagon 's decision to officially release the clips .
“ I 'm glad the Pentagon is finally releasing this footage , but it only scratches the surface of research and materials available , ” he tweeted .
“ The US needs to take a serious , scientific look at this and any potential national security implications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ informed , ” he added .
Last year , the US Navy admitted that the videos had prompted new guidelines for how pilots should report sightings of “ unauthorized and/or unidentified aircraft ” .

US Navy chiefs have revealed new details of their pilots’ encounters with ”unexplained aerial phenomena”, following the release of three declassified videos by the Pentagon last month.
Documents from the Navy Safety Center, obtained by news site Drive under the Freedom of Information Act, detail several incidents where pilots came across “unmanned aerial systems”, says Sky News.
One report from March 2014 described how a pilot came across an “unknown aircraft” which was “approximately the size of a suitcase, and silver in colour”. A navy jet then “passed within 1,000 feet” of the object but could not identify it.
During another incident, in June 2013, an aircraft “white in colour and approximately the size and shape of a drone or missile” was spotted.
Another involved an unidentified aircraft with an “approximately five foot wingspan and was coloured white with no other distinguishable features”. When drone operators in the area were contacted, all denied knowledge of such aircraft.
The documents warn it could be “only a matter of time” before a navy aircraft collides with an unidentified drone, saying they “pose a greater midair risk than manned aircraft”.
These new details follow last month’s release of three declassified videos that show US Navy pilots encountering what appear to be UFOs.
Nick Pope, a former UFO investigator for the Ministry of Defence in the UK, said the videos could show extra terrestrial activity, but that he did not have a “definitive explanation”.
He told Sky News the unidentified aircraft could be “US black project technology being blind-tested against the military as part of the evaluation process, a Russian or Chinese drone engaged in reconnaissance, or something genuinely unknown and yes, perhaps even extra-terrestrial”.
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The videos, which the Pentagon says depict “unexplained aerial phenomena”, had previously been leaked. A spokesman said they were now being formally released “to clear up any misconceptions by the public on whether or not the footage that has been circulating was real or whether or not there is more to the videos”.
The footage shows what pilots saw during training flights in 2004 and 2015. One of the grainy videos was recorded over the Pacific Ocean. The second was captured off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida.
In one of the videos, a pilot exclaims: "What the f**k is that?!" In another, an object is seen racing through the sky and begins spinning in mid-air. “Dude, this is a f**king drone, bro,” a pilot says on the video. Another says “there's a whole fleet of them”.
The Guardian says the release of the videos will “spur more speculation that humans have recently interacted with extra terrestrials”.
In 2017, retired commander David Fravor told ABC News about the 2004 encounter with unfamiliar craft. “I can tell you, I think it was not from this world," he said.
“I'm not crazy, haven't been drinking. It was… after 18 years of flying, I've seen pretty much about everything that I can see in that realm, and this was nothing close.”
Former senator, Harry Reid, welcomed the Pentagon's decision to officially release the clips. “I'm glad the Pentagon is finally releasing this footage, but it only scratches the surface of research and materials available,” he tweeted. “The US needs to take a serious, scientific look at this and any potential national security implications. The American people deserve to be informed,” he added.
Last year, the US Navy admitted that the videos had prompted new guidelines for how pilots should report sightings of “unauthorized and/or unidentified aircraft”.


theweekuk--2020-04-28--How soon could Premier League football return?

Premier League football could return in early June after two ministers signalled government approval for the move.
Speaking on Sunday, Dominic Raab, the first secretary of state, said professional sport might be granted special dispensation to resume even while social distancing measures are in place.
Then, yesterday, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, said that he backed a swift return.
He told parliament: “I personally have been in talks with the Premier League with a view to getting football up and running as soon as possible in order to support the whole football community. But, of course, any such moves would have to be consistent with public health guidance.”
With Premier League bosses keen to complete the season and preserve their broadcast revenues, it is thought that top-flight football could resume in England on 8 June.
Official talks between a cross-sport working group - including club medical staff - and government officials over what would be required to restart matches are part of a scheme known as “Project Restart”. Pressure to restart games is huge after it was reported that British sport faces bankruptcy the longer the lockdown lasts.
The Guardian says any medical and safety plans will have to be signed off by Public Health England and the government. Matches would be held behind closed doors at “approved” and potentially neutral stadiums.
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Meanwhile, clubs are starting to take tentative steps back to normality. Yesterday, Arsenal, West Ham and Brighton reopened their facilities for socially distant training and Tottenham will do the same today.
However, reports the Daily Telegraph, there are a number of stumbling blocks for the return of matches, including the issue of testing. It says the “availability and accuracy of coronavirus tests” which would be required for the plan is “currently the biggest uncertainty”.
There is also the question of whether players want to return to action soon. Jeremy Wilson writes that “there is a feeling among some players that their willingness to rush back is being taken for granted”.
The Independent raises a moral dimension, pointing out that holding matches “would require removing ambulances and paramedics from the frontline, and diverting test kits from those who urgently need them”.
It is predicted that all remaining Premier League fixtures could be televised or streamed. Ministers are keen for at least some to be made available free-to-air to avoid people breaking social distancing rules by gathering to watch at a friend’s home.
Before any matches are held in the UK, Germany could lead the way.The Bundesliga is presenting a plan to the government that could see them matches return as early as 9 May.
Meanwhile, The Times reports that there are calls for a permanent rule change in the light of the coronavirus. Players should be given yellow cards if they spit during matches when football resumes because they risk spreading viruses, a Fifa council member argued yesterday.


theweekuk--2020-04-28--Man takes goldfish for walk to exploit lockdown rule

A man in Spain took his goldfish for a walk during lockdown , seemingly to exploit a rule that allows people to take their pets out for a stroll .
The unidentified pet owner was spotted sitting on a bench , with his aquatic pal inside a bowl , in Logrono , northern Spain .
Two men in Idaho men say they have broken a Guinness World Record after managing the most beach ball passes in 30 seconds : 84 .
David Rush , who has broken more than 100 Guinness World Records , said he and “ quarantine buddy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beach ball challenge as part of a `` hallway series '' of record attempts .
Firefighters have come to the rescue of a donkey that stepped into a kettle .
North Yorkshire Fire Services said : “ Our crew from Whitby rescued a donkey called Daniel who had got his hoof stuck in a kettle .
Crews used pliers to release Daniel 's hoof and left him with his owner.
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A man in Spain took his goldfish for a walk during lockdown, seemingly to exploit a rule that allows people to take their pets out for a stroll. The unidentified pet owner was spotted sitting on a bench, with his aquatic pal inside a bowl, in Logrono, northern Spain.
Idaho men break beach ball world record
Two men in Idaho men say they have broken a Guinness World Record after managing the most beach ball passes in 30 seconds: 84. David Rush, who has broken more than 100 Guinness World Records, said he and “quarantine buddy,” Jonathan Hannon took on the beach ball challenge as part of a "hallway series" of record attempts.
Fire crew rescues donkey stuck in kettle
Firefighters have come to the rescue of a donkey that stepped into a kettle. North Yorkshire Fire Services said: “Our crew from Whitby rescued a donkey called Daniel who had got his hoof stuck in a kettle. Crews used pliers to release Daniel's hoof and left him with his owner.”
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theweekuk--2020-04-27--Boris Johnson returns: is it too early to call UK lockdown a ‘success’?

Boris Johnson spoke outside No .
10 for the first time since recovering from the Covid-19 coronavirus yesterday , claiming “ we are now beginning to turn the tide ” on the disease .
During his address , Johnson said : “ I know that there will be many people looking now at our apparent success , and beginning to wonder whether now is the time to go easy on those social distancing measures.
” The prime minister ’ s claim of success has proven to be highly contentious .
The Independent ’ s political sketch writer Tom Peck wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Apparent success ’ ?
Who is looking at your apparent success exactly ?
” Peck argued that “ there is absolutely no disputing whatsoever the certain fact that Johnson and Donald Trump stand alone on the world stage in their crushing failure to manage the response to coronavirus ” .
Therefore , Peck says , Johnson ’ s words “ showed that his idea of his government ’ s ‘ success ’ is as skewed as it ever was ” .
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Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Guardian ’ s political correspondent Kate Proctor wrote that Johnson ’ s claim of success will be “ controversial ” .
She pointed to “ the problems getting personal protective equipment to the health and care workers who need it , and concerns over the government ’ s slow response on testing ” .
Proctor notes that the government ’ s chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ be a good result ” and points out that the UK “ has already passed that ” .
LBC ’ s James O ’ Brien said there is “ epic dishonesty involved in claiming that we have enjoyed anything that could have been described as a success ” because “ around 45,000 people have died in the UK , compared with fewer than 6,000 in Germany ” .
Piers Morgan , a fierce critic of the government ’ s handling of the crisis , was also took issue with Johnson ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ Our death toll is heading to be the 2nd worst in the world .
This is not a ‘ success ’ , Prime Minister - apparent or otherwise.
” Eyebrows were raised across the Atlantic .
CNN says Johnson ’ s government has “ faced criticism for its handling of the disease , particularly whether it took the virus seriously enough in the early stages of transmission in the UK ” .
However , Johnson champion Tim Montgomerie was more admiring , tweeting of the PM ’ s address : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that these times demand ” .
The Daily Telegraph ’ s Tom Harris wrote that Johnson ’ s words have “ shown up his showboating critics ” and made the “ hysterical tantrums ” of his opponents look “ out of place ” .

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theweekuk--2020-04-27--How New Zealand eliminated coronavirus

How New Zealand eliminated coronavirus

New Zealand said yesterday it had “ eliminated ” the Covid-19 coronavirus as it reported one new case , four “ probable cases ” and one death .
The country ’ s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the coronavirus was “ currently ” eliminated but insisted that the country needed to remain alert and could still expect to continue to see new cases .
Ashley Bloomfield , New Zealand ’ s Director General of Health , said the low number “ does give us confidence that we ’ ve achieved our goal of elimination , which never meant zero but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases are coming from ” .
The Independent says New Zealand ’ s response to Covid-19 has been dubbed the “ go hard and go early ” approach .
The BBC adds that the country brought in “ some of the toughest restrictions in the world on travel and activity early on in the pandemic , when it only had a few dozen cases ” .
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Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– On 14 March , when the country had just six cases , Ardern announced that anyone entering the country would need to self isolate for two weeks .
These were among the tightest border rules in the world at the time , says CNN .
On 23 March , Ardern put the country under “ level 3 ” lockdown .
Non-essential businesses were closed , events and gatherings cancelled and schools closed .
These measures were introduced when there were just 102 confirmed cases , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ardern moved New Zealand into the strictest level 4 lockdown , with people told not to leave home except for essential exercise near their homes .
Even as cases were declining on 9 April , she tightened border restrictions so that citizens and permanent residents arriving in New Zealand had to spend two weeks quarantined in an approved facility rather than at home .
Throughout this period , New Zealand has performed widespread testing , with 123,920 carried out to date among a population of just under five million people .
Ardern says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates per capita in the world .
The prime minister has been widely credited with clear messaging throughout the crisis , but experts say that New Zealand ’ s remote location and easily sealable borders were also a major advantage .


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Timpson warns some retail chains won't survive lockdown

Some big high street names will not survive the coronavirus lockdown , warns the chairman of key-cutting and repair firm Timpson .
Speaking to Radio 4 , John Timpson said high streets would look “ somewhat different ” after the measures are relaxed .
As the 155-year-old business prepared to reopen 40 of its outlets this week , he said : “ There are going to be some other names that do n't come back.
” All UK stores deemed “ non-essential ” have been shut since Boris Johnson imposed strict measures to tackle the spread of coronavirus on 23 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the lockdown came at a “ bad time ” for the high street , which faced a consumer spending slowdown before the pandemic hit .
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Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Timpson chief says staff will return to outlets based in supermarkets , which are classified as essential retailers , along with a small number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Timpson , whose family founded the business , told the Today Programme : “ The most important part of this is to get the safety right . ''
He admitted : “ Until we get there we do n't know how particularly the social distancing is going to work , bearing in mind we 've got a shop inside someone else 's shop.
” However , the retailer will give staff face masks and install perspex screens to separate them from customers at the checkout .
Meanwhile , Greggs has also put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus lockdown .
It said it planned to reopen a small number of stores for takeaway and delivery next week .
The chief of the bakery chain has told workers of plans to open 20 stores in the Newcastle area from 4 May as part of a “ controlled trial ” .
As more chains examine the prospect of reopening , Burger King , Pret a Manger and KFC have already opened the doors of a small number of sites for takeaway and delivery .

Some big high street names will not survive the coronavirus lockdown, warns the chairman of key-cutting and repair firm Timpson.
Speaking to Radio 4, John Timpson said high streets would look “somewhat different” after the measures are relaxed.
As the 155-year-old business prepared to reopen 40 of its outlets this week, he said: “There are going to be some other names that don't come back.”
All UK stores deemed “non-essential” have been shut since Boris Johnson imposed strict measures to tackle the spread of coronavirus on 23 March.
As the BBC points out, the lockdown came at a “bad time” for the high street, which faced a consumer spending slowdown before the pandemic hit.
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The Timpson chief says staff will return to outlets based in supermarkets, which are classified as essential retailers, along with a small number of the group's high street dry-cleaning stores.
Timpson, whose family founded the business, told the Today Programme: “The most important part of this is to get the safety right."
He admitted: “Until we get there we don't know how particularly the social distancing is going to work, bearing in mind we've got a shop inside someone else's shop.”
However, the retailer will give staff face masks and install perspex screens to separate them from customers at the checkout.
Meanwhile, Greggs has also put forward plans to reopen its outlets during the coronavirus lockdown. It said it planned to reopen a small number of stores for takeaway and delivery next week.
The chief of the bakery chain has told workers of plans to open 20 stores in the Newcastle area from 4 May as part of a “controlled trial”.
As more chains examine the prospect of reopening, Burger King, Pret a Manger and KFC have already opened the doors of a small number of sites for takeaway and delivery.


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Sport shorts: F1 targets Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July for start of the 2020 season

It ’ s been a busy news day in Formula 1 with the French Grand Prix becoming the tenth race in 2020 to be called off and the British Grand Prix announcing that if the 19 July event does go ahead it will be behind closed doors .
However , it ’ s not all doom and gloom with F1 CEO Chase Carey revealing plans to start the 2020 season at the Austrian GP on 5 July .
Carey said : “ We ’ re targeting a start to racing in Europe through July , August and beginning of September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Austria on 3-5 July weekend .
“ September , October and November , would see us race in Eurasia , Asia and the Americas , finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi , having completed between 15-18 races .
We will publish our finalised calendar as soon as we possibly can.
” The English Premier League is putting plans in place to restart the 2019-20 season with “ Project Restart ” citing 8 June as the date to relaunch the campaign .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ played only at “ approved stadiums ” , while squads would stay at hotels that had also been carefully selected and screened by health officials .
Wolves forward Diogo Jota believes the Premier League season will be completed .
The Portugal international told BBC Sport : “ I know almost every country in the world has the Premier League as one of the leagues to watch so it is major that we can finish the season .
Obviously health is first and when everything is ready to go we can finish the season.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Sun says Fifa is drawing up plans to allow clubs to field two more substitutes in order to protect stars from burn-out and injuries as football prepares to restart after what in most cases will be a three month lay-off .
With that in mind five subs will be allowed instead of the customary three .
Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray are among the players taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pro starting today .
Thirty-two of the world ’ s top ATP and WTA stars will compete in the charity esports tennis tournament and all matches will be streamed on the Mutua Madrid Open ’ s Facebook page .
6 .
Where will Coutinho go next ?
The future of Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho continues to make headlines .
According to the Daily Mirror Liverpool turned down the chance to re-sign the Brazilian while the Daily Express says that Newcastle are set to enter the race for the 27-year-old .
Other Premier League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Manchester United , Everton and Tottenham .
Another Brazilian who is set for a summer move is Willian .
His Chelsea contract expires at the end of the season and according to reports Liverpool were in talks about taking the winger to Anfield on a free transfer .
However , the Daily Mail says that Arsenal are now front-runners to sign the 31-year-old .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t beat around the bush in its “ Covidiot Kean ” back page headline .
The paper says there is “ fury ” within the Everton ranks at the antics of striker Moise Kean , who has been caught flouting lockdown rules by throwing a party in his flat .
As a result he faces a “ fine of £100,000-plus and the wrath of manager Carlo Ancelotti ” .
9 .
Women ’ s Six Nations to move in calendar Rugby union ’ s Six Nations is set for a radical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organisers considering creating a new window for the women ’ s competition .
In a bid to avoid a clash with the men ’ s tournament , the Women ’ s Six Nations may “ move away from the traditional February-March slot in an effort to increase exposure ” .
Argentine rugby union legend Agustin Pichot has told The Daily Telegraph that now is the time for the sport to change .
Pichot , who is running to become chairman of World Rugby , said : “ Rugby was facing a crisis before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ served to exacerbate so many of the issues in the game .
“ We have an opportunity before us , no matter how it has come about .
It is time for change .
These are grave times for everyone but a crisis should not be allowed to bring us to our knees .
Rather it is an opportunity.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

1. F1 eyes 2020 season start in Austria
It’s been a busy news day in Formula 1 with the French Grand Prix becoming the tenth race in 2020 to be called off and the British Grand Prix announcing that if the 19 July event does go ahead it will be behind closed doors.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom with F1 CEO Chase Carey revealing plans to start the 2020 season at the Austrian GP on 5 July.
Carey said: “We’re targeting a start to racing in Europe through July, August and beginning of September, with the first race taking place in Austria on 3-5 July weekend.
“September, October and November, would see us race in Eurasia, Asia and the Americas, finishing the season in the Gulf in December with Bahrain before the traditional finale in Abu Dhabi, having completed between 15-18 races. We will publish our finalised calendar as soon as we possibly can.”
2. Prem launches ‘Project Restart’
The English Premier League is putting plans in place to restart the 2019-20 season with “Project Restart” citing 8 June as the date to relaunch the campaign. The Times reports that matches could be played only at “approved stadiums”, while squads would stay at hotels that had also been carefully selected and screened by health officials.
3. Jota confident EPL season will finish
Wolves forward Diogo Jota believes the Premier League season will be completed. The Portugal international told BBC Sport: “I know almost every country in the world has the Premier League as one of the leagues to watch so it is major that we can finish the season. Obviously health is first and when everything is ready to go we can finish the season.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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. Supplementary subs
The Sun says Fifa is drawing up plans to allow clubs to field two more substitutes in order to protect stars from burn-out and injuries as football prepares to restart after what in most cases will be a three month lay-off. With that in mind five subs will be allowed instead of the customary three.
5. Nadal and Murray play virtual tennis in Madrid
Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray are among the players taking part in the Mutua Madrid Open Virtual Pro starting today. Thirty-two of the world’s top ATP and WTA stars will compete in the charity esports tennis tournament and all matches will be streamed on the Mutua Madrid Open’s Facebook page.
6. Where will Coutinho go next?
The future of Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho continues to make headlines. According to the Daily Mirror Liverpool turned down the chance to re-sign the Brazilian while the Daily Express says that Newcastle are set to enter the race for the 27-year-old. Other Premier League clubs reportedly interested in Coutinho include Chelsea, Manchester United, Everton and Tottenham.
7. Gunners linked with Willian
Another Brazilian who is set for a summer move is Willian. His Chelsea contract expires at the end of the season and according to reports Liverpool were in talks about taking the winger to Anfield on a free transfer. However, the Daily Mail says that Arsenal are now front-runners to sign the 31-year-old.


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Why everyone’s talking about Kawasaki disease

Children in the UK with no underlying health conditions have died of a rare inflammatory syndrome believed to be linked to coronavirus , the government has confirmed .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock says that while cases of Kawasaki disease are rare , the outbreak is “ something that we ’ re worried about ” , says Sky News .
What is the condition ?
According to a report in the Health Service Journal , an “ urgent alert ” was sent out to GPs in London in the past few weeks .
It warned of “ an apparent rise in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presenting with a multisystem inflammatory state requiring intensive care ” .
The alert sent to GPs says that “ there is a growing concern that a [ Covid-19 ] related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK , or that there may be another , as yet unidentified , infectious pathogen associated with these cases ” .
The message adds : “ The cases have in common overlapping features of toxic shock syndrome and atypical Kawasaki disease with blood parameters consistent with severe Covid-19 in children.
” Typical symptoms of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and “ gastrointestinal symptoms ” – which could include vomiting and diarrhoea .
Two of the most common symptoms of Kawasaki disease include a rash and a fever , while toxic shock syndrome causes a rash , dizziness and diarrhoea .
A separate alert , sent out by the Paediatric Intensive Care Society , urges doctors to “ please refer children presenting with these symptoms as a matter of urgency ” .
The NHS says that characteristic symptoms are a high temperature , of 38C or above , that lasts for five days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is typically ( but not always ) on the chest , says Great Ormond Street Hospital .
“ Palms of the hands and soles of the feet turn bright red , become puffy and the skin can peel , ” adds GOSH , and children can experience “ redness on the insides of the eyelids , lips tongue and inside the mouth ” .
How dangerous is it ?
The Sun reports that NHS England has not yet confirmed a “ link between Covid-19 and Kawasaki-like diseases ” , adding that “ advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But Hancock told LBC Radio : “ There are some children who have died who didn ’ t have underlying health conditions .
“ It ’ s a new disease that we think may be caused by coronavirus and the Covid-19 virus .
We ’ re not 100 % sure – because some of the people who got it hadn ’ t tested positive – so we ’ re doing a lot of research now but it is something that we ’ re worried about .
“ It is rare – although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who do get it , the number of cases is small , ” reports Metro .
The NHS says Kawasaki disease is always treated in hospital , and the “ sooner treatment starts , the quicker the recovery time and there ’ s less risk of complications developing ” .
Around 25 % of children with Kawasaki disease experience complications with their heart .
If the condition is untreated , complications can be fatal in around 2-3 % of cases .
Professor Anne Marie Rafferty , president of the Royal College of Nursing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the emerging inflammatory disease and Kawasaki syndrome , says Metro .
“ Actually , there ’ s far too little known about it and the numbers actually at the moment are really too small , ” she said .
“ But it is an alert , and it ’ s something that ’ s actually being explored and examined by a number of different researchers.
” Professor Simon Kenny , NHS national clinical director for children and young people , said : “ Thankfully Kawasaki-like diseases are very rare , as currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 .
“ But it is important that clinicians are made aware of any potential emerging links so that they are able to give children and young people the right care fast .
”

Children in the UK with no underlying health conditions have died of a rare inflammatory syndrome believed to be linked to coronavirus, the government has confirmed.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock says that while cases of Kawasaki disease are rare, the outbreak is “something that we’re worried about”, says Sky News.
What is the condition?
According to a report in the Health Service Journal, an “urgent alert” was sent out to GPs in London in the past few weeks. It warned of “an apparent rise in the number of children of all ages presenting with a multisystem inflammatory state requiring intensive care”.
The alert sent to GPs says that “there is a growing concern that a [Covid-19] related inflammatory syndrome is emerging in children in the UK, or that there may be another, as yet unidentified, infectious pathogen associated with these cases”.
The message adds: “The cases have in common overlapping features of toxic shock syndrome and atypical Kawasaki disease with blood parameters consistent with severe Covid-19 in children.”
Typical symptoms of this condition include stomach pain, cardiac inflammation and “gastrointestinal symptoms” – which could include vomiting and diarrhoea.
Two of the most common symptoms of Kawasaki disease include a rash and a fever, while toxic shock syndrome causes a rash, dizziness and diarrhoea.
A separate alert, sent out by the Paediatric Intensive Care Society, urges doctors to “please refer children presenting with these symptoms as a matter of urgency”.
The NHS says that characteristic symptoms are a high temperature, of 38C or above, that lasts for five days or more, with:
a rash
swollen glands in the neck
dry, cracked lips
red fingers or toes
red eyes
The rash is typically (but not always) on the chest, says Great Ormond Street Hospital.
“Palms of the hands and soles of the feet turn bright red, become puffy and the skin can peel,” adds GOSH, and children can experience “redness on the insides of the eyelids, lips tongue and inside the mouth”.
How dangerous is it?
The Sun reports that NHS England has not yet confirmed a “link between Covid-19 and Kawasaki-like diseases”, adding that “advice to parents hasn’t changed”.


theweekuk--2020-04-27--UK lockdown: are people going out more?

UK lockdown: are people going out more?

With pressure mounting on Boris Johnson to give clarity on the length of the UK ’ s lockdown , images showing busy roads have been used to suggest that Brits are growing restless .
The Daily Mail reports that roads were this morning “ packed with traffic ” and that “ phone data showed that millions more people are taking to the roads ” , a development that the paper says shows people are returning to their normal habits .
But are people really heading back to work – or is the UK still observing the lockdown ?
What does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mail , photographs taken during rush hour today showed queues building up on London roads , while the M5 near Bristol and the M6 near Walsall were also busy .
The paper also cites “ mobility data from Apple ” based on requests for directions via its apps which it says “ showed more people are now driving ” , while use of public transport “ remained static ” .
“ Rail commuters continue to pile onto London Underground trains , ” the paper adds , “ as travel bosses carry on running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The paper cites Canning Town and Canada Water , in east London , as examples of busy underground stations .
Data compiled by the Department for Transport and supplied to the government ’ s emergency Cobra committee , shows that transport use in Britain was way below normal rates up to 24 April .
“ Traffic volumes this week have shown a small increase of three percentage points compared to previous weekday volumes , ” the Department for Transport said .
“ Rail and Tube use are down by more than 95 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing , according to the Mail , up 8 % on the week before in London on Saturday .
There is a small increase in Apple mobility data , but the government document points out that “ the number of requests for directions involving public transport has dropped by over 80 % from normal usage ” .
And while the number of requests for walking and driving directions increased by around seven percentage points between 3 and 24 April , use has still fallen by around 70 % since the beginning of March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Leaving home to exercise , such as running or walking , once a day , is permitted under lockdown rules , meaning that a small increase in searches for walking directions is not necessarily an indication that people are flouting the regulations .
The Mail also reports that TomTom congestion data in London showed 14 % congestion at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase on the figure recorded last Monday , but down 49 percentage points on normal .
The small increase comes as Home Secretary Priti Patel warned drivers to stay off the roads unless their journey is essential .
YouGov polling from 20-21 April also suggests that Brits still back the lockdown measures .
Just 16 % of people said that buying luxury items was a reasonable excuse for being outside , 29 % said that yoga in a park was a good reason to leave the house and only 14 % of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do exercise is acceptable .
Meanwhile , 91 % said that going for a run or cycle was reasonable , with 95 % believing that taking a walk outside was a fair reason to leave the house .


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition price and pictures: an exclusive convertible roadster

Mazda ’ s iconic two-seater roadster , the MX-5 , has been released as an exclusive convertible model for 2020 .
Limited to a production run of just 150 examples , the new Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition features Polymetal Grey metallic paint , a grey soft-top hood and 16-inch RAYS gunmetal alloy wheels to finish the unique exterior look .
The Polymetal Grey colour is a new edition to the 2020 Mazda MX-5 line up and on the R-Sport it is matched to piano black wing mirrors .
Inside , the R-Sport features burgundy Nappa leather seats with silver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same bespoke feel as the exterior .
Based on the 1.5-litre Sport , the R-Sport ’ s standard equipment includes navigation , Apple CarPlay and Android AutoTM , cruise control , heated seats and climate control .
Jeremy Thomson , managing director of Mazda Motors UK , said : “ When it comes to driver engagement , the current generation MX-5 has already established itself as a benchmark sports car , and with the 2020 Mazda MX-5 , and now the R-Sport special edition , we continue to offer one of the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The MX-5 is Mazda ’ s brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products , its fun to drive character has strengthened the bond between Mazda and its customers for over 30 years and the 2020 model continues this unswerving dedication to delivering an affordable , engaging , world-class sports car , while the R-Sport continues our long heritage of offering uniquely styled yet affordable limited edition versions.
” In addition to the R-Sport , the updated 2020 Mazda MX-5 range features a ten-model line-up - four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition costs £27,700 and UK deliveries will begin once the current retail restrictions come to an end .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subscription today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Mazda’s iconic two-seater roadster, the MX-5, has been released as an exclusive convertible model for 2020.
Limited to a production run of just 150 examples, the new Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition features Polymetal Grey metallic paint, a grey soft-top hood and 16-inch RAYS gunmetal alloy wheels to finish the unique exterior look.
The Polymetal Grey colour is a new edition to the 2020 Mazda MX-5 line up and on the R-Sport it is matched to piano black wing mirrors. Inside, the R-Sport features burgundy Nappa leather seats with silver stitching, ensuring the interior has the same bespoke feel as the exterior.
Based on the 1.5-litre Sport, the R-Sport’s standard equipment includes navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android AutoTM, cruise control, heated seats and climate control.
Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda Motors UK, said: “When it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has already established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2020 Mazda MX-5, and now the R-Sport special edition, we continue to offer one of the most exciting to drive cars money can buy.
“The MX-5 is Mazda’s brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products, its fun to drive character has strengthened the bond between Mazda and its customers for over 30 years and the 2020 model continues this unswerving dedication to delivering an affordable, engaging, world-class sports car, while the R-Sport continues our long heritage of offering uniquely styled yet affordable limited edition versions.”
In addition to the R-Sport, the updated 2020 Mazda MX-5 range features a ten-model line-up - four convertibles and six RFs.
Price
The Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition costs £27,700 and UK deliveries will begin once the current retail restrictions come to an end.
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Pictures: Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition
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theweekuk--2020-04-27--The sectors still recruiting during the coronavirus lockdown

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theweekuk--2020-04-27--When is the new Meghan and Harry biography out and what will it reveal?

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have cooperated with the authors of an “ explosive ” new biography that insiders fear could be a “ score-settling exercise ” as the couple justify their decision to quit the Royal Family , according to reports .
The Mail on Sunday claims that before moving to North America earlier this year , the Duke and Duchess of Sussex gave an interview to two “ favoured ” journalists for the book , provisionally titled Thoroughly Modern Royals : The Real World Of Harry And Meghan .
The revelation comes just weeks after the couple announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major UK tabloid titles , including the Daily Mail and its Sunday edition .
Markle is currently embroiled in a court case against the weekend newspaper over the publication of a 2018 letter that she wrote to her estranged father .
When will the book be out ?
The Mail on Sunday says that the biography “ was due to be published by New York-based Dey Street Books in June but was delayed , presumably because of the [ coronavirus ] pandemic ” .
The 320-page book is now set to be released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available to pre-order for £7.49 .
Princess Diana ’ s former private secretary Patrick Jephson told the paper : “ Collaborating with pliable authors and magazine journalists while shunning those deemed awkward is standard royal practice , but for Harry and Meghan it ’ s not just about image – for them it ’ s business : a vital part of the self-branding and marketing process.
” Sources told the Mail that the Sussexes spoke to two journalists for the book : Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand .
British-Iranian writer Scobie is “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sussex camp and given early notice of their events and details of their lives ” , Newsweek reports .
The royal editor at Harper ’ s Bazaar , Scobie is “ an acknowledged Meghan cheerleader and was one of the favoured journalists given details of the couple ’ s video call to the Queen last week in which they wished her a happy 94th birthday ” , adds The Mail on Sunday .
Meanwhile , Durand has been covering the Royal Family for 15 years for publications including Elle.com and OprahMag.com , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oprah Winfrey .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 can we expect from the book ?
According to the London Evening Standard , the Duke and Duchess chosen Scobie and Durand to write a “ glowing account of their blossoming romance and their decision to quit The Firm ” .
But “ palace courtiers ” are understood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is expected to contain “ excruciatingly detailed first-hand testimony ” , adds the newspaper .
However , The Telegraph reports that sources close to the Sussexes “ stress that it was not an official biography and the book does not claim to have had an interview with them ” .
Dickie Arbiter , the Queen ’ s former press secretary , told The Times : “ There is always concern when there is a book coming out , probably more so on this one if what we read is true : that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have cooperated then there is concern .
It also begs the question , how much have they cooperated ?
”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have cooperated with the authors of an “explosive” new biography that insiders fear could be a “score-settling exercise” as the couple justify their decision to quit the Royal Family, according to reports.
The Mail on Sunday claims that before moving to North America earlier this year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex gave an interview to two “favoured” journalists for the book, provisionally titled Thoroughly Modern Royals: The Real World Of Harry And Meghan.
The revelation comes just weeks after the couple announced they were cutting off communication with four major UK tabloid titles, including the Daily Mail and its Sunday edition. Markle is currently embroiled in a court case against the weekend newspaper over the publication of a 2018 letter that she wrote to her estranged father.
When will the book be out?
The Mail on Sunday says that the biography “was due to be published by New York-based Dey Street Books in June but was delayed, presumably because of the [coronavirus] pandemic”. The 320-page book is now set to be released in August, with an ebook verson available to pre-order for £7.49.
Princess Diana’s former private secretary Patrick Jephson told the paper: “Collaborating with pliable authors and magazine journalists while shunning those deemed awkward is standard royal practice, but for Harry and Meghan it’s not just about image – for them it’s business: a vital part of the self-branding and marketing process.”
Who is involved?
Sources told the Mail that the Sussexes spoke to two journalists for the book: Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand.
British-Iranian writer Scobie is “one of the journalists trusted by the Sussex camp and given early notice of their events and details of their lives”, Newsweek reports.
The royal editor at Harper’s Bazaar, Scobie is “an acknowledged Meghan cheerleader and was one of the favoured journalists given details of the couple’s video call to the Queen last week in which they wished her a happy 94th birthday”, adds The Mail on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Durand has been covering the Royal Family for 15 years for publications including Elle.com and OprahMag.com, the online edition of the magazine founded by Oprah Winfrey.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 can we expect from the book?
According to the London Evening Standard, the Duke and Duchess chosen Scobie and Durand to write a “glowing account of their blossoming romance and their decision to quit The Firm”.
But “palace courtiers” are understood to “fear” the book, which is expected to contain “excruciatingly detailed first-hand testimony”, adds the newspaper.
However, The Telegraph reports that sources close to the Sussexes “stress that it was not an official biography and the book does not claim to have had an interview with them”.
Dickie Arbiter, the Queen’s former press secretary, told The Times: “There is always concern when there is a book coming out, probably more so on this one if what we read is true: that they have cooperated.
“If they have cooperated then there is concern. It also begs the question, how much have they cooperated?”


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Italy’s timetable for lifting coronavirus lockdown


theweekuk--2020-04-28--Sport shorts: French Ligue 1 season is cancelled and Tokyo Olympic Games would be ‘scrapped’ if more

Sport shorts: French Ligue 1 season is cancelled and Tokyo Olympic Games would be ‘scrapped’ if more delays

The 2019-20 season for French football ’ s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 is cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic .
French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has announced that no sporting events , even behind closed doors , will be permitted until September .
He said : “ The big sporting affairs can not occur before September .
The 2019-20 professional football season can not return.
” Before the campaign was suspended reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain were on course to defend their title .
PSG were top of Ligue 1 with 68 points from 27 matches while second-placed Marseille were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 .
Uefa want decisions made by 25 May BBC Sport reports that European football leagues - including the Premier League - will have until 25 May to inform governing body Uefa if they want to complete or cancel their seasons .
Uefa said : “ Given the unforeseen and unprecedented situation , national associations and leagues are facing a situation whereby the completion of their domestic competitions may be at risk .
In the event that a domestic competition is to be prematurely terminated for legitimate reasons , Uefa would require the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The Guardian says the Formula One Group is expected to provide the financial backing to ensure that the British Grand Prix goes ahead now that there won ’ t be any revenue from fans .
While there has been no official confirmation as yet , the Guardian has it on good authority that “ the hosting fee is to be waived and that F1 will meet the costs incurred by the circuit , in effect renting it from its owners , the British Racing Drivers ’ Club ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Newcastle United will be approached with a takeover bid by American media mogul Henry Mauriss if their sale to a Saudi Arabian consortium is rejected .
The Daily Mirror claims that if the Saudi bid is rejected then Mauriss will step into the breach with a £350m offer .
An associate close to Mauriss said : “ He ’ s a charitable and honourable man - and is desperate to become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a genuine bid.
” England ’ s Premiership Rugby is aiming for a July restart in order to complete the 2019-20 season .
Sky Sports says the RFU is liaising with the Department for Culture Media and Sports ( DCMS ) and due to health and safety concerns , Premiership Rugby are drawing up plans to play games behind closed doors in bio-secure environments .
6 .
Olympics would be ‘ scrapped ’ if more delays Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori says the mega-event would be “ scrapped ” if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The 2020 Games were postponed for a year due to Covid-19 and when asked if there could be another delay , Mori said : “ No .
In that case , the Olympics will be scrapped .
This Olympics would be much more valuable than any Olympics in the past if we could go ahead with it after winning this battle .
We have to believe this , otherwise our hard work and efforts will not be rewarded.
” West Ham United boss David Moyes is preparing to overhaul his floundering squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are ready to offload Declan Rice for upwards of £70m with Manchester United and Arsenal among the clubs eyeing the 21-year-old England midfielder .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Chris Froome believes he can win a fifth Tour de France if the race goes ahead later this year .
“ I ’ d like to think that chances are I can do it , ” said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ written in stone , or given in sport but I ’ ve got the experience , loads of motivation and I want to make it happen obviously.
” Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton admits that the delay to the start of the 2020 season has left a big “ void ” in his life .
The Mercedes driver said : “ I miss racing everyday .
This is the first time since I was eight that I haven ’ t started a season .
When you live and breath something you love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s definitely a big void.
” We at FC Barcelona wish to express our deepest condolences for the passing of Michael Robinson , a person who loved football and who knew how to explain it with knowledge and ingenuity .
He was the winner of the 2018 Vazquez Montalban International Journalism Award .
Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/IsMAooaxmm Former Liverpool , Manchester City and Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson has died at the age of 61 .
He finished his career in Spain with Osasuna and stayed in the country where he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liverpool star Luis Garcia said : “ R.I.P Michael Robinson .
The Liverpool legend that got in all the Spanish homes with his fantastic commentaries every Weekend !
!
# YNWA.
” The Royal Spanish Football Federation added : “ The RFEF wishes to join the pain of the football world over the death of Michael Robinson .
All of us who form this institution wish to express our condolences to their family and friends .
Rest in peace.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

1. French football season finished
The 2019-20 season for French football’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 is cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has announced that no sporting events, even behind closed doors, will be permitted until September.
He said: “The big sporting affairs cannot occur before September. The 2019-20 professional football season cannot return.”
Before the campaign was suspended reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain were on course to defend their title. PSG were top of Ligue 1 with 68 points from 27 matches while second-placed Marseille were on 56 points from 28 games.
2. Uefa want decisions made by 25 May
BBC Sport reports that European football leagues - including the Premier League - will have until 25 May to inform governing body Uefa if they want to complete or cancel their seasons.
Uefa said: “Given the unforeseen and unprecedented situation, national associations and leagues are facing a situation whereby the completion of their domestic competitions may be at risk. In the event that a domestic competition is to be prematurely terminated for legitimate reasons, Uefa would require the national association to explain by 25 May.”
3. F1 to ‘bankroll’ British GP at Silverstone
The Guardian says the Formula One Group is expected to provide the financial backing to ensure that the British Grand Prix goes ahead now that there won’t be any revenue from fans.
While there has been no official confirmation as yet, the Guardian has it on good authority that “the hosting fee is to be waived and that F1 will meet the costs incurred by the circuit, in effect renting it from its owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club”.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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. US tycoon ready to buy Newcastle
Newcastle United will be approached with a takeover bid by American media mogul Henry Mauriss if their sale to a Saudi Arabian consortium is rejected.
The Daily Mirror claims that if the Saudi bid is rejected then Mauriss will step into the breach with a £350m offer. An associate close to Mauriss said: “He’s a charitable and honourable man - and is desperate to become Newcastle’s new owner. It’s a genuine bid.”
5. Rugby targets July return
England’s Premiership Rugby is aiming for a July restart in order to complete the 2019-20 season.


theweekuk--2020-04-28--How to celebrate VE Day at home

How to celebrate VE Day at home

Friday 8 May marks 75 years since the end of the Second World War , nearly six years of conflict between the winning Allies and defeated Axis Powers , including Nazi Germany .
Victory in Europe Day , or VE Day , celebrations were due to take place across the 8 to 10 May weekend , but public events have now been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak .
Instead , people are being encouraged by event organisers to mark the occasion at home in a “ shared moment of celebration ” .
Here is how you can take part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take part in a “ Nation ’ s Toast to the Heroes of WW2 ” at 3pm on 8 May , from the safety of their own home .
Participants can stand up and raise a glass , saying : “ To those who gave so much , we thank you.
” This is a “ unique opportunity to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all enjoy and share the freedom we have today ” , says Bruno Peek , pageantmaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get involved is making your own “ special VE Day 75 ‘ Great British Bunting ’ to display in your window at home ” , says the BBC .
While most events and street parties have had to be cancelled or postponed , the BBC still wants “ you to be able to mark the occasion , share your pride in our country and honour the men and women of WW2 ” .
The broadcaster provides a bunting template , instructions , a step-by-step guide and the option to send your bunting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British Legion has called for people to host “ Stay at Home ” street parties in their front gardens to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day , reports the Diss Mercury .
The charity is encouraging people to decorate their houses in red , white and blue and have a picnic in their front gardens to mark the occasion .
There will also be a UK-wide rendition of Dame Vera Lynn ’ s We ’ ll Meet Again at 9pm on the 8 May .
The song was recently referenced by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on coronavirus .
“ Take comfort that while we may have more still to endure , better days will return ... we will meet again , ” the Queen said .
The British Legion is encouraging Britons to “ grab a cup of tea and join us for a 45-minute stream as we bring the World War Two generation together with today ’ s generation to chat about their shared experiences ” .
The charity will share stories and memories from those who served and sacrificed over the course the Second World War @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today .
The programme will be streaming live from 11.15am on 8 May from the Legion ’ s website and Facebook page .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 Legion has also provided VE Day resources for young people , providing an overview of VE Day and its continued relevance today .
“ Students can explore what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities and people through first-hand written and film accounts , striking photographs and carefully-crafted activities , ” says the Legion ’ s website .
Resources are available for teachers , as well as parents and carers who are teaching children at home due to the coronavirus pandemic .

Friday 8 May marks 75 years since the end of the Second World War, nearly six years of conflict between the winning Allies and defeated Axis Powers, including Nazi Germany.
Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, celebrations were due to take place across the 8 to 10 May weekend, but public events have now been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Instead, people are being encouraged by event organisers to mark the occasion at home in a “shared moment of celebration”.
Here is how you can take part:
Toast
VE Day 75 are encouraging people to take part in a “Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2” at 3pm on 8 May, from the safety of their own home.
Participants can stand up and raise a glass, saying: “To those who gave so much, we thank you.”
This is a “unique opportunity to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all enjoy and share the freedom we have today”, says Bruno Peek, pageantmaster of VE Day 75.
Great British Bunting
Another way to get involved is making your own “special VE Day 75 ‘Great British Bunting’ to display in your window at home”, says the BBC.
While most events and street parties have had to be cancelled or postponed, the BBC still wants “you to be able to mark the occasion, share your pride in our country and honour the men and women of WW2”.
The broadcaster provides a bunting template, instructions, a step-by-step guide and the option to send your bunting photographs to the BBC.
Stay at home street party
The Royal British Legion has called for people to host “Stay at Home” street parties in their front gardens to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, reports the Diss Mercury.
The charity is encouraging people to decorate their houses in red, white and blue and have a picnic in their front gardens to mark the occasion.
Vera Lynn singalong
There will also be a UK-wide rendition of Dame Vera Lynn’s We’ll Meet Again at 9pm on the 8 May.
The song was recently referenced by the Queen in her address to the nation on coronavirus.
“Take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return... we will meet again,” the Queen said.
Join in the livestream
The British Legion is encouraging Britons to “grab a cup of tea and join us for a 45-minute stream as we bring the World War Two generation together with today’s generation to chat about their shared experiences”.
The charity will share stories and memories from those who served and sacrificed over the course the Second World War, while recognising difficulties people are facing today.
The programme will be streaming live from 11.15am on 8 May from the Legion’s website and Facebook page.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Remember through learning
The Legion has also provided VE Day resources for young people, providing an overview of VE Day and its continued relevance today.
“Students can explore what VE Day meant to different countries, communities and people through first-hand written and film accounts, striking photographs and carefully-crafted activities,” says the Legion’s website.
Resources are available for teachers, as well as parents and carers who are teaching children at home due to the coronavirus pandemic.


theweekuk--2020-04-28--Zoom call scandal: Financial Times journalist suspended over eavesdropping claims

A Financial Times reporter has been suspended for allegedly eavesdropping on Zoom meetings where staff at The Independent and the London Evening Standard were informed of planned salary cuts and furloughs .
Mark Di Stefano , the FT ’ s media and technology reporter , is accused of listening in to the audio feeds of video conference calls where bosses at the two sister news outlets outlined their response to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
The allegations follow an investigation by The Independent .
What is being claimed ?
Zoom log files reportedly show than an account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email address joined a private video call for Independent staff last Thursday for 16 seconds .
“ The caller ’ s video was disabled , but journalists saw his name flash briefly on screen before he left the meeting , ” says the news site .
Five minutes later , an unnamed account reportedly joined the call .
Again , the video was switched off “ so that only a black square was displayed among the screens showing up to 100 people who had been invited to attend ” , The Independent adds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second account - which is said to have stayed in the meeting until the end - was linked to a mobile phone used by Di Stefano .
The Guardian reports that the FT journalist , “ a prolific tweeter with more than 100,000 followers , broke the news of the meetings on Twitter at the same time as staff were being informed ” .
A story on the measures being introduced by the Standard was then published by the FT , while a short summary of the cuts at The Independent appeared on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The FT ’ s story about the Standard cuts cites “ people on the call ” as its source .
Both the Standard and The Independent are based in the same building in Kensington , west London , and are part-owned by Russian tycoon Evgeny Lebedev .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bosses at The Independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the alleged privacy breach .
The Independent editor Christian Broughton said : “ We respect freedom of speech and understand the challenges of news gathering , but the Independent considers the presence of a third-party journalist in a staff briefing to be entirely inappropriate and an unwarranted intrusion into our employees ’ privacy .
“ Our spokesperson had a full statement prepared for the press .
Any interested reporters only needed to call and ask.
” A spokesperson for the Standard said : “ For a journalist from the FT to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unacceptable .
We are sure the FT will want to offer an immediate explanation and an apology.
” What % u2019s the FT got to say about this ?
Their own code of conduct says % u2018the press must not seek to obtain or publish material acquired by % u2026 intercepting private or mobile telephone calls , messages or emails % u201D .
https : //t.co/POb4ABsU0t The FT ’ s code of conduct states : “ The press must not seek to obtain or publish material acquired by ... intercepting private or mobile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Engaging in misrepresentation or subterfuge ... can generally be justified only in the public interest and then only when the material can not be obtained by other means.
” Di Stefano and the FT are yet to comment .

A Financial Times reporter has been suspended for allegedly eavesdropping on Zoom meetings where staff at The Independent and the London Evening Standard were informed of planned salary cuts and furloughs.
Mark Di Stefano, the FT’s media and technology reporter, is accused of listening in to the audio feeds of video conference calls where bosses at the two sister news outlets outlined their response to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
The allegations follow an investigation by The Independent.
What is being claimed?
Zoom log files reportedly show than an account registered to Di Stefano’s work email address joined a private video call for Independent staff last Thursday for 16 seconds.
“The caller’s video was disabled, but journalists saw his name flash briefly on screen before he left the meeting,” says the news site.
Five minutes later, an unnamed account reportedly joined the call. Again, the video was switched off “so that only a black square was displayed among the screens showing up to 100 people who had been invited to attend”, The Independent adds.
Subsequent investigations allegedly revealed that the second account - which is said to have stayed in the meeting until the end - was linked to a mobile phone used by Di Stefano.
The Guardian reports that the FT journalist, “a prolific tweeter with more than 100,000 followers, broke the news of the meetings on Twitter at the same time as staff were being informed”.
A story on the measures being introduced by the Standard was then published by the FT, while a short summary of the cuts at The Independent appeared on the FT’s daily live blog.
The FT’s story about the Standard cuts cites “people on the call” as its source.
Both the Standard and The Independent are based in the same building in Kensington, west London, and are part-owned by Russian tycoon Evgeny Lebedev.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
And the reaction?
Bosses at The Independent and Evening Standard have issued scathing responses to the alleged privacy breach.
The Independent editor Christian Broughton said: “We respect freedom of speech and understand the challenges of news gathering, but the Independent considers the presence of a third-party journalist in a staff briefing to be entirely inappropriate and an unwarranted intrusion into our employees’ privacy.
“Our spokesperson had a full statement prepared for the press. Any interested reporters only needed to call and ask.”
A spokesperson for the Standard said: “For a journalist from the FT to have illegitimately accessed a private Zoom call is unacceptable. We are sure the FT will want to offer an immediate explanation and an apology.”
Meanwhile, the newspaper’s editor, ex-chancellor George Osborne, tweeted:
What’s the FT got to say about this? Their own code of conduct says ‘the press must not seek to obtain or publish material acquired by… intercepting private or mobile telephone calls, messages or emails”. https://t.co/POb4ABsU0t — George Osborne (@George_Osborne) April 27, 2020
The FT’s code of conduct states: “The press must not seek to obtain or publish material acquired by... intercepting private or mobile telephone calls, messages or emails. Engaging in misrepresentation or subterfuge... can generally be justified only in the public interest and then only when the material cannot be obtained by other means.”
Di Stefano and the FT are yet to comment.


theweekuk--2020-04-27--Saudi Arabia ends executions of minors: what’s behind the move?

Saudi Arabia is to abolish the death penalty for citizens who commit crimes as minors , the kingdom ’ s Human Rights Commission ( HRC ) has announced .
In a statement released on Sunday , HRC President Awwad Alawwad said that under a new royal decree , the punishment will be replaced with “ a prison sentence of no longer than ten years in a juvenile detention facility ” .
The move will help Saudi Arabia establish “ a more modern penal code and demonstrates the kingdom ’ s commitment to following through on key reforms ” , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s record on capital punishment ?
The Middle Eastern nation has faced widespread criticism in recent years over its human rights record .
Last week , Amnesty International released a damning report that says the Saudi authorities executed a record 184 people in 2019 - a 23 % year-on-year increase .
At least one case involved a man convicted of a crime committed when he was a minor , according to the rights group .
Only China and Iran execute more people annually .
Saudi Arabia retains the death penalty for offences including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trafficking and “ sorcery ” , as well as murder , under a legal system based on Sharia law and fundamentalist Wahhabism .
International protests against the executions - most of which take the form of public beheadings - have been fuelled by concerns about the fairness of trials in the kingdom .
The Sun say that trials at which defendants have been sentenced to death are “ reported to have lasted a day and confessions extracted under torture ” .
Saudi Arabia “ has no written penal code and no code of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the newspaper notes , adding : “ The only means of appeal is directly to the king , who decides whether the condemned lives or dies.
” What about the new decree ?
Saudi King Salman and his son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have given the green light to halt the death penalty for crimes committed by minors “ as the kingdom seeks to blunt criticism over its human rights record ” , says The Guardian .
Capital punishment for crimes committed by people aged under 18 runs contrary to the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Child , which Saudi Arabia has ratified .
Announcing the decision to abolish the death penalty , HRC boss Alawwad promised that “ more reforms will be coming ” .
However , it remains unclear when the executions ban will come into effect .
The announcement came “ just two days after the kingdom , in effect , abolished flogging as punishment , in a decision made by the General Commission for the Supreme Court ” , reports Al Jazeera .
Flogging had been mandatory as a form of corporal punishment for offences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consumption or possession of alcohol , adultery and pestering girls .
The penalty will be replaced by prison sentences or fines .
Alawwad hailed the reform as “ a momentous step forward in Saudi Arabia ’ s human rights agenda ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 royal decree is expected to save the lives of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s minority Shia community who were convicted of taking part in anti-government protests while aged under 18 , during the Arab Spring uprisings .
UN human rights experts appealed to the kingdom last year to halt plans to execute them .
The decree should also benefit the wider Saudi Shia community , members of which are disproportionately likely to be handed death sentences .
As Al Jazeera reports , in April 2019 , the kingdom beheaded 37 men convicted of “ terrorism ” charges .
The UN human rights chief said at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were Shia Muslims who may not have had fair trials - and that at least three were minors when sentenced .
Campaigners hope that in a further bid to strengthen international ties , more reforms are being planned by Crown Prince bin Salman , who is “ seen as the force behind the kingdom ’ s loosening of restrictions and its pivot away from ultraconservative interpretations of Islamic law ” , reports Voice of America .
“ The crown prince has sought to modernise the country , attract foreign investment and revamp Saudi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says the Washington D.C.-based news site - but adds that he has also “ overseen a parallel crackdown on liberals , women ’ s rights activists , writers , moderate clerics and reformers ” .

Saudi Arabia is to abolish the death penalty for citizens who commit crimes as minors, the kingdom’s Human Rights Commission (HRC) has announced.
In a statement released on Sunday, HRC President Awwad Alawwad said that under a new royal decree, the punishment will be replaced with “a prison sentence of no longer than ten years in a juvenile detention facility”.
The move will help Saudi Arabia establish “a more modern penal code and demonstrates the kingdom’s commitment to following through on key reforms”, he added.
What is Saudi Arabia’s record on capital punishment?
The Middle Eastern nation has faced widespread criticism in recent years over its human rights record.
Last week, Amnesty International released a damning report that says the Saudi authorities executed a record 184 people in 2019 - a 23% year-on-year increase. At least one case involved a man convicted of a crime committed when he was a minor, according to the rights group.
Only China and Iran execute more people annually.
Saudi Arabia retains the death penalty for offences including rape, sedition, adultery, drug trafficking and “sorcery”, as well as murder, under a legal system based on Sharia law and fundamentalist Wahhabism.
International protests against the executions - most of which take the form of public beheadings - have been fuelled by concerns about the fairness of trials in the kingdom.
The Sun say that trials at which defendants have been sentenced to death are “reported to have lasted a day and confessions extracted under torture”.
Saudi Arabia “has no written penal code and no code of criminal procedure and judicial procedure”, the newspaper notes, adding: “The only means of appeal is directly to the king, who decides whether the condemned lives or dies.”
What about the new decree?
Saudi King Salman and his son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have given the green light to halt the death penalty for crimes committed by minors “as the kingdom seeks to blunt criticism over its human rights record”, says The Guardian.
Capital punishment for crimes committed by people aged under 18 runs contrary to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Saudi Arabia has ratified.