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uk-england-42804842

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-42804842

London transport investment 'more than double north's'

The north of England will receive more transport investment per person than the south of England, according to a think tank.

Think tank IPPR North said the capital will receive £4,155 per person compared with £1,600 in the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber combined. It said England will be "dangerously unbalanced" without more northern investment. The government said the figures were "completely misleading". More Yorkshire stories IPPR North said its calculations are based on information from the government's Infrastructure and Projects Authority and analysis of Treasury data. But the government's analysis of planned central government transport investment shows the north will receive more investment per person (£1,039) than the south (£1,029). But IPPR North said this was "misleading", given nearly £12bn of Transport for London (TfL) spending was excluded. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has signed a deal with London Mayor Sadiq Khan which allows the capital to keep its own business rates to spend on transport. The government said TfL projects should not be included in the data as they receive no central funding. Historically, TfL revenues were pooled, in part to rebalance the economy, IPPR said. 'Indefensible' gap The think tank said the government's analysis also only covers until 2020/21 after which a "large proportion" of spending is due to go to London. Luke Raikes, of IPPR North, said: "London is still set to receive almost three times more transport investment per person than the north. This is indefensible. "The north has been underfunded in comparison with London for decades [...] and ministers have failed to redress this imbalance." A government spokesman said IPPR's analysis was "completely misleading" and "highly unrepresentative" because only a few projects have published spending projections beyond 2021. He also said it was "misleading for their analysis to include Transport for London projects which receive no central government funding."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Think tank IPPR North said the capital will receive £4,155 per person compared with £1,600 in the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber combined. It said England will be "dangerously unbalanced" without more northern investment. The government said the figures were "completely misleading". More Yorkshire stories IPPR North said its calculations are based on information from the government's Infrastructure and Projects Authority and analysis of Treasury data. But the government's analysis of planned central government transport investment shows the north will receive more investment per person (£1,039) than the south (£1,029). But IPPR North said this was "misleading", given nearly £12bn of Transport for London (TfL) spending was excluded. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has signed a deal with London Mayor Sadiq Khan which allows the capital to keep its own business rates to spend on transport. The government said TfL projects should not be included in the data as they receive no central funding. Historically, TfL revenues were pooled, in part to rebalance the economy, IPPR said. 'Indefensible' gap The think tank said the government's analysis also only covers until 2020/21 after which a "large proportion" of spending is due to go to London. Luke Raikes, of IPPR North, said: "London is still set to receive almost three times more transport investment per person than the north. This is indefensible. "The north has been underfunded in comparison with London for decades [...] and ministers have failed to redress this imbalance." A government spokesman said IPPR's analysis was "completely misleading" and "highly unrepresentative" because only a few projects have published spending projections beyond 2021. He also said it was "misleading for their analysis to include Transport for London projects which receive no central government funding." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Think tank IPPR North said the capital will receive £4,155 per person compared with £1,600 in the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber combined. It said England will be "dangerously unbalanced" without more northern investment. The government said the figures were "completely misleading". More Yorkshire stories IPPR North said its calculations are based on information from the government's Infrastructure and Projects Authority and analysis of Treasury data. But the government's analysis of planned central government transport investment shows the north will receive more investment per person (£1,039) than the south (£1,029). But IPPR North said this was "misleading", given nearly £12bn of Transport for London (TfL) spending was excluded. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has signed a deal with London Mayor Sadiq Khan which allows the capital to keep its own business rates to spend on transport. The government said TfL projects should not be included in the data as they receive no central funding. Historically, TfL revenues were pooled, in part to rebalance the economy, IPPR said. 'Indefensible' gap The think tank said the government's analysis also only covers until 2020/21 after which a "large proportion" of spending is due to go to London. Luke Raikes, of IPPR North, said: "London is still set to receive almost three times more transport investment per person than the north. This is indefensible. "The north has been underfunded in comparison with London for decades [...] and ministers have failed to redress this imbalance." A government spokesman said IPPR's analysis was "completely misleading" and "highly unrepresentative" because only a few projects have published spending projections beyond 2021. He also said it was "misleading for their analysis to include Transport for London projects which receive no central government funding." ### Summary: The north of England will receive more transport investment per person than the south of England, according to a think tank. ### Source: By Tom BurridgeBBC News The north of England will receive more transport investment per

entertainment-arts-45256712

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-45256712

MTV VMAs: Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B and other must-see moments

Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj have been honoured with the VMAs' best new artist award.

The MTV VMAs were as star-studded as ever, and with so many talents and egos in the room, there were some attention-grabbing moments. 1. St Ariana is here Thanks to the Ariana Grande song, we all know by now that God Is A Woman. And her performance of that song gave us one of the performances of the night. It started with Ariana and a cast of female dancers - including a black female bikini-wearing Jesus - sitting at a long table, evoking The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci's painting of Jesus and his disciples. And it finished with Ariana's beloved Nonna, her mother Joan and cousin Lani joining her on stage, hand-in-hand in a show of female unity. That wasn't the only moment where Ariana got people talking. When Nicki Minaj walked up the steps to collect the award for best hip-hop, it was Ariana who stepped out from her front-row seat to save the rapper from tripping on her (see-through) dress. Eagle-eyed fans spotted something else. Beforehand, on the pink carpet, Grande was loved-up with fiance Pete Davidson, who was wearing a home-made bead bracelet bearing the initials AGD - Ariana Grande Davidson. Aww. 2. Nicki puts Tiffany in her place In her intro to the show, co-host Tiffany Haddish managed to mangle Camila Cabello's name ("Y'all know I can't read that good - I only speak English") before going on to diss Camila's former Fifth Harmony sisters. "She's nominated for five VMAs tonight," the actress and comedian said. "I'm super proud of her. So those of you watching at home... Hi Fifth Harmony!" Cut to Camila furiously shaking her head to make sure the world knew she didn't approve. But Nicki Minaj was there for the girl group. After safely navigating the steps to collect her hip-hop award - and after she gave us a view through her dress - she ticked off Tiffany: "Don't be coming for Fifth Harmony." 3. Cardi puts Nicki in her place Cardi B had been expected to give her first performance since giving birth last month, but she didn't perform in the end. Instead, she opened the show - unveiling a newly cropped hairstyle - and pretended to breastfeed on stage, holding a bundle of blankets to her chest as she gave a short introduction. Given this ceremony's history of shock, a superstar breastfeeding at an award ceremony would have been truly radical. But Cardi unfurled the blankets to reveal one of the VMA trophies. She later won best new artist and used her acceptance speech to say: "A couple of months ago a lot of people were saying you're gambling your career, you're about to have a baby, what are you doing? And, you know, I had a baby, I carried a baby, and now I'm still winning awards. "All the love that my fans, that my friends, that everybody shows me, is genuine, is beautiful, and that's something that God gave me that you can't buy." Lots of people have taken that last line as a barb at the expense of Nicki Minaj, who recently gave an interview talking about record labels paying for hits. 4. Logic sent a message to Trump The rapper led dozens of immigrant children and teenagers wearing "We are all human beings" through the Radio City Music Hall foyer, down the aisles and onto the stage for a performance of his song One Day with Ryan Tedder. A "US border patrol" backdrop lifted halfway through to reveal the kids' siblings and parents, and the families were then reunited. It wasn't hard to decipher the symbolism. A press release said Logic's message was "to protest the Trump Administration's cruel and inhumane family separation policy that tore thousands of children from their parents and continues to keep hundreds apart". More on the VMAs: 5. J-Lo brought the house down Another highlight was Jennifer Lopez's performance of a medley of her greatest hits, including Jenny From The Block, Love Don't Cost A Thing and All I Have. She also brought out the rapper Ja Rule to perform their 2001 hit I'm Real. She was then presented with MTV's annual Vanguard Award, named after Michael Jackson. During her acceptance speech, she turned to her 10-year-old twins, Maximilian David and Emme Maribel, and said they gave her strength to improve. "The future is even brighter," she said. She was also watched on lovingly by boyfriend, baseball star Alex "A-Rod" Rodriguez. 6. Millie Bobby Brown had a ball The person having the most fun wasn't one of the winners. Millie Bobby Brown presented Cardi B with the best new artist trophy. The 14-year-old Stranger Things star also hung out with Bebe Rexha and Ariana Grande... ...as well as double award winner Camila Cabello. Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts, or on Instagram at bbcnewsents. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The MTV VMAs were as star-studded as ever, and with so many talents and egos in the room, there were some attention-grabbing moments. 1. St Ariana is here Thanks to the Ariana Grande song, we all know by now that God Is A Woman. And her performance of that song gave us one of the performances of the night. It started with Ariana and a cast of female dancers - including a black female bikini-wearing Jesus - sitting at a long table, evoking The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci's painting of Jesus and his disciples. And it finished with Ariana's beloved Nonna, her mother Joan and cousin Lani joining her on stage, hand-in-hand in a show of female unity. That wasn't the only moment where Ariana got people talking. When Nicki Minaj walked up the steps to collect the award for best hip-hop, it was Ariana who stepped out from her front-row seat to save the rapper from tripping on her (see-through) dress. Eagle-eyed fans spotted something else. Beforehand, on the pink carpet, Grande was loved-up with fiance Pete Davidson, who was wearing a home-made bead bracelet bearing the initials AGD - Ariana Grande Davidson. Aww. 2. Nicki puts Tiffany in her place In her intro to the show, co-host Tiffany Haddish managed to mangle Camila Cabello's name ("Y'all know I can't read that good - I only speak English") before going on to diss Camila's former Fifth Harmony sisters. "She's nominated for five VMAs tonight," the actress and comedian said. "I'm super proud of her. So those of you watching at home... Hi Fifth Harmony!" Cut to Camila furiously shaking her head to make sure the world knew she didn't approve. But Nicki Minaj was there for the girl group. After safely navigating the steps to collect her hip-hop award - and after she gave us a view through her dress - she ticked off Tiffany: "Don't be coming for Fifth Harmony." 3. Cardi puts Nicki in her place Cardi B had been expected to give her first performance since giving birth last month, but she didn't perform in the end. Instead, she opened the show - unveiling a newly cropped hairstyle - and pretended to breastfeed on stage, holding a bundle of blankets to her chest as she gave a short introduction. Given this ceremony's history of shock, a superstar breastfeeding at an award ceremony would have been truly radical. But Cardi unfurled the blankets to reveal one of the VMA trophies. She later won best new artist and used her acceptance speech to say: "A couple of months ago a lot of people were saying you're gambling your career, you're about to have a baby, what are you doing? And, you know, I had a baby, I carried a baby, and now I'm still winning awards. "All the love that my fans, that my friends, that everybody shows me, is genuine, is beautiful, and that's something that God gave me that you can't buy." Lots of people have taken that last line as a barb at the expense of Nicki Minaj, who recently gave an interview talking about record labels paying for hits. 4. Logic sent a message to Trump The rapper led dozens of immigrant children and teenagers wearing "We are all human beings" through the Radio City Music Hall foyer, down the aisles and onto the stage for a performance of his song One Day with Ryan Tedder. A "US border patrol" backdrop lifted halfway through to reveal the kids' siblings and parents, and the families were then reunited. It wasn't hard to decipher the symbolism. A press release said Logic's message was "to protest the Trump Administration's cruel and inhumane family separation policy that tore thousands of children from their parents and continues to keep hundreds apart". More on the VMAs: 5. J-Lo brought the house down Another highlight was Jennifer Lopez's performance of a medley of her greatest hits, including Jenny From The Block, Love Don't Cost A Thing and All I Have. She also brought out the rapper Ja Rule to perform their 2001 hit I'm Real. She was then presented with MTV's annual Vanguard Award, named after Michael Jackson. During her acceptance speech, she turned to her 10-year-old twins, Maximilian David and Emme Maribel, and said they gave her strength to improve. "The future is even brighter," she said. She was also watched on lovingly by boyfriend, baseball star Alex "A-Rod" Rodriguez. 6. Millie Bobby Brown had a ball The person having the most fun wasn't one of the winners. Millie Bobby Brown presented Cardi B with the best new artist trophy. The 14-year-old Stranger Things star also hung out with Bebe Rexha and Ari ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The MTV VMAs were as star-studded as ever, and with so many talents and egos in the room, there were some attention-grabbing moments. 1. St Ariana is here Thanks to the Ariana Grande song, we all know by now that God Is A Woman. And her performance of that song gave us one of the performances of the night. It started with Ariana and a cast of female dancers - including a black female bikini-wearing Jesus - sitting at a long table, evoking The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci's painting of Jesus and his disciples. And it finished with Ariana's beloved Nonna, her mother Joan and cousin Lani joining her on stage, hand-in-hand in a show of female unity. That wasn't the only moment where Ariana got people talking. When Nicki Minaj walked up the steps to collect the award for best hip-hop, it was Ariana who stepped out from her front-row seat to save the rapper from tripping on her (see-through) dress. Eagle-eyed fans spotted something else. Beforehand, on the pink carpet, Grande was loved-up with fiance Pete Davidson, who was wearing a home-made bead bracelet bearing the initials AGD - Ariana Grande Davidson. Aww. 2. Nicki puts Tiffany in her place In her intro to the show, co-host Tiffany Haddish managed to mangle Camila Cabello's name ("Y'all know I can't read that good - I only speak English") before going on to diss Camila's former Fifth Harmony sisters. "She's nominated for five VMAs tonight," the actress and comedian said. "I'm super proud of her. So those of you watching at home... Hi Fifth Harmony!" Cut to Camila furiously shaking her head to make sure the world knew she didn't approve. But Nicki Minaj was there for the girl group. After safely navigating the steps to collect her hip-hop award - and after she gave us a view through her dress - she ticked off Tiffany: "Don't be coming for Fifth Harmony." 3. Cardi puts Nicki in her place Cardi B had been expected to give her first performance since giving birth last month, but she didn't perform in the end. Instead, she opened the show - unveiling a newly cropped hairstyle - and pretended to breastfeed on stage, holding a bundle of blankets to her chest as she gave a short introduction. Given this ceremony's history of shock, a superstar breastfeeding at an award ceremony would have been truly radical. But Cardi unfurled the blankets to reveal one of the VMA trophies. She later won best new artist and used her acceptance speech to say: "A couple of months ago a lot of people were saying you're gambling your career, you're about to have a baby, what are you doing? And, you know, I had a baby, I carried a baby, and now I'm still winning awards. "All the love that my fans, that my friends, that everybody shows me, is genuine, is beautiful, and that's something that God gave me that you can't buy." Lots of people have taken that last line as a barb at the expense of Nicki Minaj, who recently gave an interview talking about record labels paying for hits. 4. Logic sent a message to Trump The rapper led dozens of immigrant children and teenagers wearing "We are all human beings" through the Radio City Music Hall foyer, down the aisles and onto the stage for a performance of his song One Day with Ryan Tedder. A "US border patrol" backdrop lifted halfway through to reveal the kids' siblings and parents, and the families were then reunited. It wasn't hard to decipher the symbolism. A press release said Logic's message was "to protest the Trump Administration's cruel and inhumane family separation policy that tore thousands of children from their parents and continues to keep hundreds apart". More on the VMAs: 5. J-Lo brought the house down Another highlight was Jennifer Lopez's performance of a medley of her greatest hits, including Jenny From The Block, Love Don't Cost A Thing and All I Have. She also brought out the rapper Ja Rule to perform their 2001 hit I'm Real. She was then presented with MTV's annual Vanguard Award, named after Michael Jackson. During her acceptance speech, she turned to her 10-year-old twins, Maximilian David and Emme Maribel, and said they gave her strength to improve. "The future is even brighter," she said. She was also watched on lovingly by boyfriend, baseball star Alex "A-Rod" Rodriguez. 6. Millie Bobby Brown had a ball The person having the most fun wasn't one of the winners. Millie Bobby Brown presented Cardi B with the best new artist trophy. The 14-year-old Stranger Things star also hung out with Bebe Rexha and Ari ### Summary: Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj have been honoured with the VMAs' best new artist award. » Next article: 7. Nicki Minaj's performance was the highlight of the night. 8

uk-26407840

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-26407840

'Two Together Railcard' goes on sale

A new railcard will be launched for 30 years.

The £30-a-year "Two Together Railcard" can be used on journeys after 09:30 on weekdays and all day at weekends by two named and photographed people. Railcards were previously only available to those under 26, over 60, disabled, serving in the armed forces or travelling with children. It is the first new national railcard to be launched for 30 years. The new card can be used to save on standard and first class anytime, off-peak and advance tickets for travel throughout Britain after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays. For example, two super off-peak single tickets from Birmingham New Street to London Euston, which would normally cost £45.80, would cost £30.50 - a saving of £15.30 - for two passengers using the new railcard. Two advance single tickets from Newcastle to Leeds will now cost £14.50 - saving £7.50. David Mapp, commercial director at the Association of Train Operating Companies, said: "It's ideal for visiting family and friends, day trips or weekend breaks, so the Two Together Railcard will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take the train instead. "As well as savings on rail travel, the new railcard also offers savings on attractions, theatre shows, restaurants, hotels and more." Any two people can apply to buy the railcard - whether they are a couple, relatives, colleagues who regularly share a trip or commute, or two friends who regularly travel together. But the discount will only apply to journeys they are on together.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The £30-a-year "Two Together Railcard" can be used on journeys after 09:30 on weekdays and all day at weekends by two named and photographed people. Railcards were previously only available to those under 26, over 60, disabled, serving in the armed forces or travelling with children. It is the first new national railcard to be launched for 30 years. The new card can be used to save on standard and first class anytime, off-peak and advance tickets for travel throughout Britain after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays. For example, two super off-peak single tickets from Birmingham New Street to London Euston, which would normally cost £45.80, would cost £30.50 - a saving of £15.30 - for two passengers using the new railcard. Two advance single tickets from Newcastle to Leeds will now cost £14.50 - saving £7.50. David Mapp, commercial director at the Association of Train Operating Companies, said: "It's ideal for visiting family and friends, day trips or weekend breaks, so the Two Together Railcard will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take the train instead. "As well as savings on rail travel, the new railcard also offers savings on attractions, theatre shows, restaurants, hotels and more." Any two people can apply to buy the railcard - whether they are a couple, relatives, colleagues who regularly share a trip or commute, or two friends who regularly travel together. But the discount will only apply to journeys they are on together. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The £30-a-year "Two Together Railcard" can be used on journeys after 09:30 on weekdays and all day at weekends by two named and photographed people. Railcards were previously only available to those under 26, over 60, disabled, serving in the armed forces or travelling with children. It is the first new national railcard to be launched for 30 years. The new card can be used to save on standard and first class anytime, off-peak and advance tickets for travel throughout Britain after 9.30am Monday to Friday and all day on weekends and bank holidays. For example, two super off-peak single tickets from Birmingham New Street to London Euston, which would normally cost £45.80, would cost £30.50 - a saving of £15.30 - for two passengers using the new railcard. Two advance single tickets from Newcastle to Leeds will now cost £14.50 - saving £7.50. David Mapp, commercial director at the Association of Train Operating Companies, said: "It's ideal for visiting family and friends, day trips or weekend breaks, so the Two Together Railcard will encourage more people to leave the car at home and take the train instead. "As well as savings on rail travel, the new railcard also offers savings on attractions, theatre shows, restaurants, hotels and more." Any two people can apply to buy the railcard - whether they are a couple, relatives, colleagues who regularly share a trip or commute, or two friends who regularly travel together. But the discount will only apply to journeys they are on together. ### Summary: A new railcard will be launched for 30 years. ### Text: A new railcard will be launched for 30 years. ### Summary: A new railcard will be launched for

business-48593423

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-48593423

John Lewis to start building home extensions

John Lewis has bought a home improvement business.

The employee-owned business said it wanted to be involved in every area of home improvement from design to construction. John Lewis already runs a booking site for tradespeople and last year it acquired a home improvement firm, Opun. But now it is planning on bringing both of those services under one roof to design and build extensions. Opun designs and installs bathrooms and kitchens as well as undertaking loft conversions and extensions. Since it was acquired by John Lewis in September 2018, Opun, which undertakes large-scale construction projects, has been operating independently but now it will work alongside Home Solutions, which finds tradespeople for smaller jobs. John Lewis director Sean Allam said the deal to buy Opun demonstrated the department store's ambition to grow in the home services market. The firm is now looking at how best to bring these services to its customers. Both Opun and Home Solutions sit in a part of the business that is supposed to create new products for both John Lewis and Waitrose, which is also part of the partnership. John Lewis had a difficult year in 2018. Profits plunged by more than 45% to £130m, as department stores fight to stay relevant in the face of competition from online retailers. But retail analyst Richard Hyman told the BBC that building up the home improvement business was unlikely to make a difference to short term profitability at John Lewis. Instead, Mr Hyman said it was probably a response to a slowdown in the housing market, which he attributed to the "prohibitive" cost of stamp duty. He said that had an impact on "connected markets" like John Lewis, which sells the furniture for those homes.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The employee-owned business said it wanted to be involved in every area of home improvement from design to construction. John Lewis already runs a booking site for tradespeople and last year it acquired a home improvement firm, Opun. But now it is planning on bringing both of those services under one roof to design and build extensions. Opun designs and installs bathrooms and kitchens as well as undertaking loft conversions and extensions. Since it was acquired by John Lewis in September 2018, Opun, which undertakes large-scale construction projects, has been operating independently but now it will work alongside Home Solutions, which finds tradespeople for smaller jobs. John Lewis director Sean Allam said the deal to buy Opun demonstrated the department store's ambition to grow in the home services market. The firm is now looking at how best to bring these services to its customers. Both Opun and Home Solutions sit in a part of the business that is supposed to create new products for both John Lewis and Waitrose, which is also part of the partnership. John Lewis had a difficult year in 2018. Profits plunged by more than 45% to £130m, as department stores fight to stay relevant in the face of competition from online retailers. But retail analyst Richard Hyman told the BBC that building up the home improvement business was unlikely to make a difference to short term profitability at John Lewis. Instead, Mr Hyman said it was probably a response to a slowdown in the housing market, which he attributed to the "prohibitive" cost of stamp duty. He said that had an impact on "connected markets" like John Lewis, which sells the furniture for those homes. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The employee-owned business said it wanted to be involved in every area of home improvement from design to construction. John Lewis already runs a booking site for tradespeople and last year it acquired a home improvement firm, Opun. But now it is planning on bringing both of those services under one roof to design and build extensions. Opun designs and installs bathrooms and kitchens as well as undertaking loft conversions and extensions. Since it was acquired by John Lewis in September 2018, Opun, which undertakes large-scale construction projects, has been operating independently but now it will work alongside Home Solutions, which finds tradespeople for smaller jobs. John Lewis director Sean Allam said the deal to buy Opun demonstrated the department store's ambition to grow in the home services market. The firm is now looking at how best to bring these services to its customers. Both Opun and Home Solutions sit in a part of the business that is supposed to create new products for both John Lewis and Waitrose, which is also part of the partnership. John Lewis had a difficult year in 2018. Profits plunged by more than 45% to £130m, as department stores fight to stay relevant in the face of competition from online retailers. But retail analyst Richard Hyman told the BBC that building up the home improvement business was unlikely to make a difference to short term profitability at John Lewis. Instead, Mr Hyman said it was probably a response to a slowdown in the housing market, which he attributed to the "prohibitive" cost of stamp duty. He said that had an impact on "connected markets" like John Lewis, which sells the furniture for those homes. ### Summary: John Lewis has bought a home improvement business. ### Text: John Lewis has bought a home improvement business. ### Summary: John Lewis has bought a home improvement business. ### Text: John

uk-england-tyne-54088959

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tyne-54088959

Sunderland fires: Stone-throwing youths attack crews

A firefighter has been attacked with stones by a group of people in Sunderland.

Crews were called to a blaze in Commercial Road, Hendon in Sunderland, on Monday when they were set upon. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said it was the third attack in a week - in the first, on 3 September, a crew in Downhill was pelted with stones. Chief fire officer Chris Lowther said: "Firefighters are not invincible - they're men and women with families." Mr Lowther said no-one was injured in the attacks but an engine was damaged and had to be taken off the road. 'Deserve respect' He added: "Our men and women work hard to keep people safe - they deserve respect, not violence and abuse. "Some of the attackers were as young as 10 years old. "Parents, do you know where your kids are and what they are doing?" It is thought all three fires grassland fires were started deliberately.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Crews were called to a blaze in Commercial Road, Hendon in Sunderland, on Monday when they were set upon. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said it was the third attack in a week - in the first, on 3 September, a crew in Downhill was pelted with stones. Chief fire officer Chris Lowther said: "Firefighters are not invincible - they're men and women with families." Mr Lowther said no-one was injured in the attacks but an engine was damaged and had to be taken off the road. 'Deserve respect' He added: "Our men and women work hard to keep people safe - they deserve respect, not violence and abuse. "Some of the attackers were as young as 10 years old. "Parents, do you know where your kids are and what they are doing?" It is thought all three fires grassland fires were started deliberately. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Crews were called to a blaze in Commercial Road, Hendon in Sunderland, on Monday when they were set upon. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said it was the third attack in a week - in the first, on 3 September, a crew in Downhill was pelted with stones. Chief fire officer Chris Lowther said: "Firefighters are not invincible - they're men and women with families." Mr Lowther said no-one was injured in the attacks but an engine was damaged and had to be taken off the road. 'Deserve respect' He added: "Our men and women work hard to keep people safe - they deserve respect, not violence and abuse. "Some of the attackers were as young as 10 years old. "Parents, do you know where your kids are and what they are doing?" It is thought all three fires grassland fires were started deliberately. ### Summary: A firefighter has been attacked with stones by a group of people in Sunderland. ### Source: A firefighter has been attacked with stones by a group of people in Sunderland. ###

uk-england-leicestershire-53631679

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-leicestershire-53631679

Coronavirus: 'Relief' for Leicester firms out of lockdown

A pub in Leicester has been closed for the first time since March.

Businesses due to ease coronavirus restrictions with the rest of England on 4 July were told on 29 June to remain shut under a local lockdown. At the end of last week it was announced some hospitality companies in Leicester could finally reopen. Shop owner Drew Harriman said they now felt "ready for anything". Mr Harriman, who runs Harriman & Co homewares, said they had opened briefly in June. "The second lockdown was much harder," he said. "The first time we spent the time wisely, making changes and improving the shop. But the second time was, 'oh God really?' "It came as such a shock we kind of went to ground a little bit. "But it is great to be open again. We have reduced hours and we will see how it goes. "It does seem to be busier today, there are definitely more people around than previously. "And we are keeping on a few of the ideas we have had, like FaceTime shopping, local deliveries and maybe private shopping slots." Blake Edwards, of the Flappers and Gentlemen hair salon, will be opening on Tuesday for the first time since March. He said he felt a "massive relief" at finally being able to welcome customers, adding he wanted to make people feel proud of Leicester again. He said the lockdown had "cost the businesses immensely". "We know there is a rocky road ahead," he added. "We are happy but aware safety is the number one priority. We don't want any more setbacks." He said as well as affecting the mental health of people working in Leicester, the lockdown had taken a toll on business owners like himself who had to go to bed "working out whether they can still carry on employing the team". "You really have had to be mentally strong," he said, adding the reopening of businesses would "hopefully start pushing Leicester in the direction it deserves". Kevin Shepherdson, landlord of The Old Horse pub, said: "It has been a bit dispiriting at times, thinking you were going to reopen, then not, pouring away all that beer. "We've missed out on big events in the park opposite - it should have been the Caribbean Carnival at the weekend when we would usually make £20,000. "But we are ready, relearning things that used to be routine and making the most of our outdoor space. "We've got tablets for people to put in orders and after years of asking them to bring their glasses back, we are now telling them not to! "And what has been great is since we said we were reopening, the phone has been ringing non-stop with people booking things in." Sandra Potts, of Sandra May's Hair Studio in the city centre, said she cried with excitement on the way to open up for the first time in 19 weeks. "One of the other businesses who opened earlier said you could hear a pin drop on Cank Street but I said, 'don't worry, we will bring back the noise'. "But we have lost customers, we know we have. People are scared to come to Leicester but we are safe, we are good, we will do everything to make it work." City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said he hoped the government had learned from the city's lockdown. "I think people of Leicester do feel that we have been used as a bit of an example," he said. "We hope now the government has learned from what has happened here and it won't be necessary to lock down the city in the same way again." Advice on travelling to and from Leicester has also been clarified. As of 31 July residents have been able to make non-essential journeys and travel in and out of the city. Overnight stays are permitted from Monday providing they are not in other people's homes. In common with various parts of northern England, there is a ban on visiting people's homes, either indoors or in private gardens. Holidays are allowed, though only in company of people you already live with, and travellers must not stay in another person's home while they are away. Oadby and Wigston, on the edge of the city, came out of additional restrictions from 1 August, meaning a return to national social distancing guidelines. Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Businesses due to ease coronavirus restrictions with the rest of England on 4 July were told on 29 June to remain shut under a local lockdown. At the end of last week it was announced some hospitality companies in Leicester could finally reopen. Shop owner Drew Harriman said they now felt "ready for anything". Mr Harriman, who runs Harriman & Co homewares, said they had opened briefly in June. "The second lockdown was much harder," he said. "The first time we spent the time wisely, making changes and improving the shop. But the second time was, 'oh God really?' "It came as such a shock we kind of went to ground a little bit. "But it is great to be open again. We have reduced hours and we will see how it goes. "It does seem to be busier today, there are definitely more people around than previously. "And we are keeping on a few of the ideas we have had, like FaceTime shopping, local deliveries and maybe private shopping slots." Blake Edwards, of the Flappers and Gentlemen hair salon, will be opening on Tuesday for the first time since March. He said he felt a "massive relief" at finally being able to welcome customers, adding he wanted to make people feel proud of Leicester again. He said the lockdown had "cost the businesses immensely". "We know there is a rocky road ahead," he added. "We are happy but aware safety is the number one priority. We don't want any more setbacks." He said as well as affecting the mental health of people working in Leicester, the lockdown had taken a toll on business owners like himself who had to go to bed "working out whether they can still carry on employing the team". "You really have had to be mentally strong," he said, adding the reopening of businesses would "hopefully start pushing Leicester in the direction it deserves". Kevin Shepherdson, landlord of The Old Horse pub, said: "It has been a bit dispiriting at times, thinking you were going to reopen, then not, pouring away all that beer. "We've missed out on big events in the park opposite - it should have been the Caribbean Carnival at the weekend when we would usually make £20,000. "But we are ready, relearning things that used to be routine and making the most of our outdoor space. "We've got tablets for people to put in orders and after years of asking them to bring their glasses back, we are now telling them not to! "And what has been great is since we said we were reopening, the phone has been ringing non-stop with people booking things in." Sandra Potts, of Sandra May's Hair Studio in the city centre, said she cried with excitement on the way to open up for the first time in 19 weeks. "One of the other businesses who opened earlier said you could hear a pin drop on Cank Street but I said, 'don't worry, we will bring back the noise'. "But we have lost customers, we know we have. People are scared to come to Leicester but we are safe, we are good, we will do everything to make it work." City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said he hoped the government had learned from the city's lockdown. "I think people of Leicester do feel that we have been used as a bit of an example," he said. "We hope now the government has learned from what has happened here and it won't be necessary to lock down the city in the same way again." Advice on travelling to and from Leicester has also been clarified. As of 31 July residents have been able to make non-essential journeys and travel in and out of the city. Overnight stays are permitted from Monday providing they are not in other people's homes. In common with various parts of northern England, there is a ban on visiting people's homes, either indoors or in private gardens. Holidays are allowed, though only in company of people you already live with, and travellers must not stay in another person's home while they are away. Oadby and Wigston, on the edge of the city, came out of additional restrictions from 1 August, meaning a return to national social distancing guidelines. Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Businesses due to ease coronavirus restrictions with the rest of England on 4 July were told on 29 June to remain shut under a local lockdown. At the end of last week it was announced some hospitality companies in Leicester could finally reopen. Shop owner Drew Harriman said they now felt "ready for anything". Mr Harriman, who runs Harriman & Co homewares, said they had opened briefly in June. "The second lockdown was much harder," he said. "The first time we spent the time wisely, making changes and improving the shop. But the second time was, 'oh God really?' "It came as such a shock we kind of went to ground a little bit. "But it is great to be open again. We have reduced hours and we will see how it goes. "It does seem to be busier today, there are definitely more people around than previously. "And we are keeping on a few of the ideas we have had, like FaceTime shopping, local deliveries and maybe private shopping slots." Blake Edwards, of the Flappers and Gentlemen hair salon, will be opening on Tuesday for the first time since March. He said he felt a "massive relief" at finally being able to welcome customers, adding he wanted to make people feel proud of Leicester again. He said the lockdown had "cost the businesses immensely". "We know there is a rocky road ahead," he added. "We are happy but aware safety is the number one priority. We don't want any more setbacks." He said as well as affecting the mental health of people working in Leicester, the lockdown had taken a toll on business owners like himself who had to go to bed "working out whether they can still carry on employing the team". "You really have had to be mentally strong," he said, adding the reopening of businesses would "hopefully start pushing Leicester in the direction it deserves". Kevin Shepherdson, landlord of The Old Horse pub, said: "It has been a bit dispiriting at times, thinking you were going to reopen, then not, pouring away all that beer. "We've missed out on big events in the park opposite - it should have been the Caribbean Carnival at the weekend when we would usually make £20,000. "But we are ready, relearning things that used to be routine and making the most of our outdoor space. "We've got tablets for people to put in orders and after years of asking them to bring their glasses back, we are now telling them not to! "And what has been great is since we said we were reopening, the phone has been ringing non-stop with people booking things in." Sandra Potts, of Sandra May's Hair Studio in the city centre, said she cried with excitement on the way to open up for the first time in 19 weeks. "One of the other businesses who opened earlier said you could hear a pin drop on Cank Street but I said, 'don't worry, we will bring back the noise'. "But we have lost customers, we know we have. People are scared to come to Leicester but we are safe, we are good, we will do everything to make it work." City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said he hoped the government had learned from the city's lockdown. "I think people of Leicester do feel that we have been used as a bit of an example," he said. "We hope now the government has learned from what has happened here and it won't be necessary to lock down the city in the same way again." Advice on travelling to and from Leicester has also been clarified. As of 31 July residents have been able to make non-essential journeys and travel in and out of the city. Overnight stays are permitted from Monday providing they are not in other people's homes. In common with various parts of northern England, there is a ban on visiting people's homes, either indoors or in private gardens. Holidays are allowed, though only in company of people you already live with, and travellers must not stay in another person's home while they are away. Oadby and Wigston, on the edge of the city, came out of additional restrictions from 1 August, meaning a return to national social distancing guidelines. Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk. ### Summary: A pub in Leicester has been closed for the first time since March. ### Text: The Old Horse pub in Leicester has been closed for the first time since March. ### Summary:

business-55295712

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-55295712

Brexit: 'It's utter confusion' over trade talks delay

A number of businesses in the UK and the EU have said they are frustrated with the Brexit talks.

But on Sunday, the UK and European Union (EU) agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks beyond what they said would be the deadline. The UK and EU have been carrying out negotiations since March and are trying to secure a deal before the so-called transition period ends on 31 December. Talks have been deadlocked on a handful of key issues, including fishing quotas. Should they fail, tariffs - taxes on goods being bought and sold between the two - could be introduced and, prices of certain products may go up as a result. With the new deadline quickly approaching, what do firms think of yet another delay? 'It's utter confusion' Stephen Britt, is the managing director of Anchor Storage, in Suffolk. His family-founded firm helps customers with storage, warehousing and transport. Mr Britt voted in favour of the UK leaving the EU in the Brexit referendum, and he feels frustrated with how trade talks have fared since. "We've long passed the time where we should have done a deal," he says. On the latest extension of the trade talks deadline, he adds: "It would always have been better to have a mutually beneficial deal for everybody... But if we were going to get something agreeable, that would have happened by now." Since mid-November, he says he has received enquiries from those looking to bring in additional goods early, in case of further disruption at ports in the event of a no-deal Brexit. "Nobody knows where they are, it's utter confusion." He says that in any case though, many of his customers will have to adapt to new and more complex ways of moving goods between the UK and the EU. "But, I've got to be optimistic and positive and say once we learn to deal with the new reality, it will be improved. "I also hope technology will start kicking in so these cross-channel movements will become more streamlined." 'Not a surprise' Ed Salt, managing director of Delamere Dairy, in Cheshire, says that another extension to the trade talks deadline came as little surprise. "I've said for four years that if two sides desperately want a deal, a bit of pragmatism will come into play and we will eventually get one. "It's more frustrating than anything", he says, having never wanted the UK to leave the EU. Mr Salt also believes there will be additional costs for his firm, no matter what the outcome. "With Christmas around the corner and Covid-19, as well as Brexit, it is literally the perfect storm." He expresses frustration, too, with having to make changes to how his business operates, with little information. Having set up a new office and changed packaging on certain products to continue to be able to supply Northern Ireland post-Brexit, the rules changed once again, offering a three month grace period for food suppliers from Britain. "Businesses are resilient, and presented with a challenge they tend to overcome it," he says. "But they do need information in order to do that." 'We're already anxious' Julie Price is the founder and managing director of Julie Price & Co insurance, in Hinckley, which employs five members of staff. "Covid-19 has really caused havoc with businesses, and Brexit almost gets relegated as an issue," she says. But she adds that she's keen to see UK and EU leaders "bash [a deal] out as soon as they can, because we're already anxious as a nation." Ms Price says that she's already discussed no-deal Brexit contingency plans with several clients, who have put them in motion. "At the smaller end of the scale, businesses are more flexible and can make changes even in a day. Your big corporations can't act that quickly." She says that she's concerned that firms would not only be hit financially in the event of no-deal, but also in terms of confidence: "I'm very pro-business and I want them to do well. Confidence is key in that. "I'm sure we'll come through it, but it would be nice to have a bit more certainty", she adds. 'Limbo makes doing anything very difficult' In Grimsby, Jo Smedley, the founder of Red Herring Games, creates and sells games such as murder mysteries to private and corporate clients. She told the BBC that while "being in limbo makes doing anything very difficult", her business would largely be sheltered from the impact of a no-deal Brexit. With clients mainly based outside of Europe, "in terms of sales, I don't think there will be much of an effect". "But of course, we don't know what impact Brexit might have until we're a bit clearer on the new rules," she says. She adds that she's not surprised that talks have ground to a halt on several occasions. "It's a very difficult situation, given that we're leaving, rather than negotiating to get into the EU. We're not holding any of the cards, really." For Jo, she hopes for additional certainty in 2021 for businesses like hers: "The more uncertainty we have, the harder it is for you trade - particularly if you have big business decisions to be making. We just need to get on with it."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: But on Sunday, the UK and European Union (EU) agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks beyond what they said would be the deadline. The UK and EU have been carrying out negotiations since March and are trying to secure a deal before the so-called transition period ends on 31 December. Talks have been deadlocked on a handful of key issues, including fishing quotas. Should they fail, tariffs - taxes on goods being bought and sold between the two - could be introduced and, prices of certain products may go up as a result. With the new deadline quickly approaching, what do firms think of yet another delay? 'It's utter confusion' Stephen Britt, is the managing director of Anchor Storage, in Suffolk. His family-founded firm helps customers with storage, warehousing and transport. Mr Britt voted in favour of the UK leaving the EU in the Brexit referendum, and he feels frustrated with how trade talks have fared since. "We've long passed the time where we should have done a deal," he says. On the latest extension of the trade talks deadline, he adds: "It would always have been better to have a mutually beneficial deal for everybody... But if we were going to get something agreeable, that would have happened by now." Since mid-November, he says he has received enquiries from those looking to bring in additional goods early, in case of further disruption at ports in the event of a no-deal Brexit. "Nobody knows where they are, it's utter confusion." He says that in any case though, many of his customers will have to adapt to new and more complex ways of moving goods between the UK and the EU. "But, I've got to be optimistic and positive and say once we learn to deal with the new reality, it will be improved. "I also hope technology will start kicking in so these cross-channel movements will become more streamlined." 'Not a surprise' Ed Salt, managing director of Delamere Dairy, in Cheshire, says that another extension to the trade talks deadline came as little surprise. "I've said for four years that if two sides desperately want a deal, a bit of pragmatism will come into play and we will eventually get one. "It's more frustrating than anything", he says, having never wanted the UK to leave the EU. Mr Salt also believes there will be additional costs for his firm, no matter what the outcome. "With Christmas around the corner and Covid-19, as well as Brexit, it is literally the perfect storm." He expresses frustration, too, with having to make changes to how his business operates, with little information. Having set up a new office and changed packaging on certain products to continue to be able to supply Northern Ireland post-Brexit, the rules changed once again, offering a three month grace period for food suppliers from Britain. "Businesses are resilient, and presented with a challenge they tend to overcome it," he says. "But they do need information in order to do that." 'We're already anxious' Julie Price is the founder and managing director of Julie Price & Co insurance, in Hinckley, which employs five members of staff. "Covid-19 has really caused havoc with businesses, and Brexit almost gets relegated as an issue," she says. But she adds that she's keen to see UK and EU leaders "bash [a deal] out as soon as they can, because we're already anxious as a nation." Ms Price says that she's already discussed no-deal Brexit contingency plans with several clients, who have put them in motion. "At the smaller end of the scale, businesses are more flexible and can make changes even in a day. Your big corporations can't act that quickly." She says that she's concerned that firms would not only be hit financially in the event of no-deal, but also in terms of confidence: "I'm very pro-business and I want them to do well. Confidence is key in that. "I'm sure we'll come through it, but it would be nice to have a bit more certainty", she adds. 'Limbo makes doing anything very difficult' In Grimsby, Jo Smedley, the founder of Red Herring Games, creates and sells games such as murder mysteries to private and corporate clients. She told the BBC that while "being in limbo makes doing anything very difficult", her business would largely be sheltered from the impact of a no-deal Brexit. With clients mainly based outside of Europe, "in terms of sales, I don't think there will be much of an effect". "But of course, we don't know what impact Brexit might have until we're a bit clearer on the new rules," she says. She adds that she's not surprised that talks have ground to a halt on several occasions. "It's a very difficult situation, given that we're leaving, rather than negotiating to get into the EU. We're not holding any of the cards, really." For Jo ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: But on Sunday, the UK and European Union (EU) agreed to carry on post-Brexit trade talks beyond what they said would be the deadline. The UK and EU have been carrying out negotiations since March and are trying to secure a deal before the so-called transition period ends on 31 December. Talks have been deadlocked on a handful of key issues, including fishing quotas. Should they fail, tariffs - taxes on goods being bought and sold between the two - could be introduced and, prices of certain products may go up as a result. With the new deadline quickly approaching, what do firms think of yet another delay? 'It's utter confusion' Stephen Britt, is the managing director of Anchor Storage, in Suffolk. His family-founded firm helps customers with storage, warehousing and transport. Mr Britt voted in favour of the UK leaving the EU in the Brexit referendum, and he feels frustrated with how trade talks have fared since. "We've long passed the time where we should have done a deal," he says. On the latest extension of the trade talks deadline, he adds: "It would always have been better to have a mutually beneficial deal for everybody... But if we were going to get something agreeable, that would have happened by now." Since mid-November, he says he has received enquiries from those looking to bring in additional goods early, in case of further disruption at ports in the event of a no-deal Brexit. "Nobody knows where they are, it's utter confusion." He says that in any case though, many of his customers will have to adapt to new and more complex ways of moving goods between the UK and the EU. "But, I've got to be optimistic and positive and say once we learn to deal with the new reality, it will be improved. "I also hope technology will start kicking in so these cross-channel movements will become more streamlined." 'Not a surprise' Ed Salt, managing director of Delamere Dairy, in Cheshire, says that another extension to the trade talks deadline came as little surprise. "I've said for four years that if two sides desperately want a deal, a bit of pragmatism will come into play and we will eventually get one. "It's more frustrating than anything", he says, having never wanted the UK to leave the EU. Mr Salt also believes there will be additional costs for his firm, no matter what the outcome. "With Christmas around the corner and Covid-19, as well as Brexit, it is literally the perfect storm." He expresses frustration, too, with having to make changes to how his business operates, with little information. Having set up a new office and changed packaging on certain products to continue to be able to supply Northern Ireland post-Brexit, the rules changed once again, offering a three month grace period for food suppliers from Britain. "Businesses are resilient, and presented with a challenge they tend to overcome it," he says. "But they do need information in order to do that." 'We're already anxious' Julie Price is the founder and managing director of Julie Price & Co insurance, in Hinckley, which employs five members of staff. "Covid-19 has really caused havoc with businesses, and Brexit almost gets relegated as an issue," she says. But she adds that she's keen to see UK and EU leaders "bash [a deal] out as soon as they can, because we're already anxious as a nation." Ms Price says that she's already discussed no-deal Brexit contingency plans with several clients, who have put them in motion. "At the smaller end of the scale, businesses are more flexible and can make changes even in a day. Your big corporations can't act that quickly." She says that she's concerned that firms would not only be hit financially in the event of no-deal, but also in terms of confidence: "I'm very pro-business and I want them to do well. Confidence is key in that. "I'm sure we'll come through it, but it would be nice to have a bit more certainty", she adds. 'Limbo makes doing anything very difficult' In Grimsby, Jo Smedley, the founder of Red Herring Games, creates and sells games such as murder mysteries to private and corporate clients. She told the BBC that while "being in limbo makes doing anything very difficult", her business would largely be sheltered from the impact of a no-deal Brexit. With clients mainly based outside of Europe, "in terms of sales, I don't think there will be much of an effect". "But of course, we don't know what impact Brexit might have until we're a bit clearer on the new rules," she says. She adds that she's not surprised that talks have ground to a halt on several occasions. "It's a very difficult situation, given that we're leaving, rather than negotiating to get into the EU. We're not holding any of the cards, really." For Jo ### Summary: A number of businesses in the UK and the EU have said they are frustrated with the Brexit talks. ### Text: The UK and EU have been carrying out trade talks since March. They have been

science+environment-10646282

https://www.bbc.com/news/science+environment-10646282

Renewables see 'resilient growth' in 2009

Renewable energy is set to outpace conventional energy sources across the globe next year, according to a report.

By Mark KinverScience and environment reporter, BBC News The UN-backed study said renewables accounted for 60% of new electricity generation capacity in Europe. And in the US, green electricity accounted for more than half of the generation capacity built last year. The authors added that renewables were set to outpace conventional energy sources across the globe next year. The global status report, produced by the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21), said green power had reached a "clear tipping point" during 2010. "Renewables comprised fully one-quarter of global power capacity and delivered 18% of global electricity supply in 2009," it stated in its review of the preceding 12 months. The authors said the year was "unprecedented in the history of renewable energy, despite the headwinds posed by the global financial crisis, lower oil prices and slow progress with climate policy". One of the forces propelling the sector's strong showing, they added, was the "potential to create new industries and millions of new jobs". The findings also showed that emerging economies were also embracing the new technologies, especially China, which added 37 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power capacity last year - more than any other nation in the world. Eastern promise China was also capitalising on the global market for green energy products, manufacturing about 40% of the worlds photovoltaic panels and 30% of the globe's wind turbines (up from 10% in 2007). The report said that more than 100 countries had established a renewable energy policy, up from 55 nations in 2005. It also estimated that about 70 million households around the globe had installed solar hot water heating systems. "Favourable policies in more than 100 countries have played a critical role," said REN21 chairman Mohamed El-Ashry. "For the upward trend of renewable energy growth to continue, policy efforts now need to be taken to the next level and encourage a massive scale-up of technologies," he added. Another report, released to accompany the REN21 findings, said 2009 saw the second highest annual investment in renewables. The assessment of global investment for the UN Environment Programme, produced by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said $162bn was invested during 2009, down 7% from the record high of $173bn in 2008. The reduced investment was a result of the global economic downturn, but the authors said 2009 was "one of resilience for sustainable energy" that saw a record level of investment in wind power, particularly as a result of projects in China and the North Sea. Challenging times However, they warned that the austerity measures being introduced by a growing number of governments during 2010 could present fresh challenges over the coming months. Responding to the report, Unep executive director Achim Steiner described the past year as one of "resilience, frustration and determination". He said: "Resilience to the financial downturn that was hitting all sectors of the global economy and frustration that, while the UN climate convention meeting in Copenhagen was not the big breakdown that might have occurred, neither was it the big breakthrough so many hoped for." Yet there was a determination, he added, especially among developing nations, to transform the current economic uncertainty into an "opportunity for greener growth". Michael Liebreich, chief executive of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said the relative stability of the sector showed that "clear energy was not a bubble created by the late stages of the credit boom, but was instead an investment theme that would remain important for the years ahead". But Mr Steiner warned: "There still remains, however, a serious gap between the ambition and the science in terms of where the world needs to be in 2020 to avoid dangerous climate change."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Mark KinverScience and environment reporter, BBC News The UN-backed study said renewables accounted for 60% of new electricity generation capacity in Europe. And in the US, green electricity accounted for more than half of the generation capacity built last year. The authors added that renewables were set to outpace conventional energy sources across the globe next year. The global status report, produced by the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21), said green power had reached a "clear tipping point" during 2010. "Renewables comprised fully one-quarter of global power capacity and delivered 18% of global electricity supply in 2009," it stated in its review of the preceding 12 months. The authors said the year was "unprecedented in the history of renewable energy, despite the headwinds posed by the global financial crisis, lower oil prices and slow progress with climate policy". One of the forces propelling the sector's strong showing, they added, was the "potential to create new industries and millions of new jobs". The findings also showed that emerging economies were also embracing the new technologies, especially China, which added 37 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power capacity last year - more than any other nation in the world. Eastern promise China was also capitalising on the global market for green energy products, manufacturing about 40% of the worlds photovoltaic panels and 30% of the globe's wind turbines (up from 10% in 2007). The report said that more than 100 countries had established a renewable energy policy, up from 55 nations in 2005. It also estimated that about 70 million households around the globe had installed solar hot water heating systems. "Favourable policies in more than 100 countries have played a critical role," said REN21 chairman Mohamed El-Ashry. "For the upward trend of renewable energy growth to continue, policy efforts now need to be taken to the next level and encourage a massive scale-up of technologies," he added. Another report, released to accompany the REN21 findings, said 2009 saw the second highest annual investment in renewables. The assessment of global investment for the UN Environment Programme, produced by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said $162bn was invested during 2009, down 7% from the record high of $173bn in 2008. The reduced investment was a result of the global economic downturn, but the authors said 2009 was "one of resilience for sustainable energy" that saw a record level of investment in wind power, particularly as a result of projects in China and the North Sea. Challenging times However, they warned that the austerity measures being introduced by a growing number of governments during 2010 could present fresh challenges over the coming months. Responding to the report, Unep executive director Achim Steiner described the past year as one of "resilience, frustration and determination". He said: "Resilience to the financial downturn that was hitting all sectors of the global economy and frustration that, while the UN climate convention meeting in Copenhagen was not the big breakdown that might have occurred, neither was it the big breakthrough so many hoped for." Yet there was a determination, he added, especially among developing nations, to transform the current economic uncertainty into an "opportunity for greener growth". Michael Liebreich, chief executive of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said the relative stability of the sector showed that "clear energy was not a bubble created by the late stages of the credit boom, but was instead an investment theme that would remain important for the years ahead". But Mr Steiner warned: "There still remains, however, a serious gap between the ambition and the science in terms of where the world needs to be in 2020 to avoid dangerous climate change." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Mark KinverScience and environment reporter, BBC News The UN-backed study said renewables accounted for 60% of new electricity generation capacity in Europe. And in the US, green electricity accounted for more than half of the generation capacity built last year. The authors added that renewables were set to outpace conventional energy sources across the globe next year. The global status report, produced by the Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21), said green power had reached a "clear tipping point" during 2010. "Renewables comprised fully one-quarter of global power capacity and delivered 18% of global electricity supply in 2009," it stated in its review of the preceding 12 months. The authors said the year was "unprecedented in the history of renewable energy, despite the headwinds posed by the global financial crisis, lower oil prices and slow progress with climate policy". One of the forces propelling the sector's strong showing, they added, was the "potential to create new industries and millions of new jobs". The findings also showed that emerging economies were also embracing the new technologies, especially China, which added 37 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power capacity last year - more than any other nation in the world. Eastern promise China was also capitalising on the global market for green energy products, manufacturing about 40% of the worlds photovoltaic panels and 30% of the globe's wind turbines (up from 10% in 2007). The report said that more than 100 countries had established a renewable energy policy, up from 55 nations in 2005. It also estimated that about 70 million households around the globe had installed solar hot water heating systems. "Favourable policies in more than 100 countries have played a critical role," said REN21 chairman Mohamed El-Ashry. "For the upward trend of renewable energy growth to continue, policy efforts now need to be taken to the next level and encourage a massive scale-up of technologies," he added. Another report, released to accompany the REN21 findings, said 2009 saw the second highest annual investment in renewables. The assessment of global investment for the UN Environment Programme, produced by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said $162bn was invested during 2009, down 7% from the record high of $173bn in 2008. The reduced investment was a result of the global economic downturn, but the authors said 2009 was "one of resilience for sustainable energy" that saw a record level of investment in wind power, particularly as a result of projects in China and the North Sea. Challenging times However, they warned that the austerity measures being introduced by a growing number of governments during 2010 could present fresh challenges over the coming months. Responding to the report, Unep executive director Achim Steiner described the past year as one of "resilience, frustration and determination". He said: "Resilience to the financial downturn that was hitting all sectors of the global economy and frustration that, while the UN climate convention meeting in Copenhagen was not the big breakdown that might have occurred, neither was it the big breakthrough so many hoped for." Yet there was a determination, he added, especially among developing nations, to transform the current economic uncertainty into an "opportunity for greener growth". Michael Liebreich, chief executive of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, said the relative stability of the sector showed that "clear energy was not a bubble created by the late stages of the credit boom, but was instead an investment theme that would remain important for the years ahead". But Mr Steiner warned: "There still remains, however, a serious gap between the ambition and the science in terms of where the world needs to be in 2020 to avoid dangerous climate change." ### Summary: Renewable energy is set to outpace conventional energy sources across the globe next year, according to a report. ### Source: The Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21

education-15738876

https://www.bbc.com/news/education-15738876

Ethnic minority pupils increase by 57% in a decade

The number of ethnic minority pupils in England has risen in a decade, according to a study.

The study by Chris Hamnett looked at the changing demographics of schools between 1999 and 2009. In inner London, 67% of secondary pupils are from ethnic minorities, says Professor Hamnett. Gathering such data is important for understanding the future make-up of the population, he says. The study, from the geography department of King's College London, reveals a "very substantial" shift in the population, which Professor Hamnett says represents an "irrevocable" change. Changing places The 57% increase in ethnic minority pupils contrasted with an overall secondary school population rise of 4.7% - and a slight decline in white pupils, a figure that also includes migrants from eastern Europe. Across the country, the proportion of ethnic minority pupils has risen in a decade from 11.5% to 17% - and Professor Hamnett forecasts that it is set to rise again to 20%. He found a pattern of an increasing proportion of ethnic minority pupils in big cities, particularly London. "London as a whole now has an ethnic minority dominated secondary school system, akin to that of many large US cities, and the figure reaches 67% in inner London," says Professor Hamnett. "This is also true of a small number of other towns and cities with large ethnic minorities, notably Slough (64%), Leicester (58%), Birmingham (52%) and Luton (51%). Manchester and Bradford are not far behind with 43%." Professor Hamnett says that this is not about recently arrived children, these are children born in England. And patterns of birth rates indicate that the proportion of ethnic minority pupils will increase in the next decades. Such changes have become a lasting feature of the ethnic make-up of England's population, he says. But he also says it shows a picture of ethnic minority families moving out to towns and suburbs across England. "We're not looking at minorities being trapped or ghettoised in small areas. There's a process of suburbanisation," says Professor Hamnett. This was particularly the case for Asian families, he says. Among the biggest increases were areas such as Merton, Croydon and Enfield. New majority There are also wide differences in the ethnic breakdowns of schools in different parts of the country. In places such as Knowsley, Cumbria and Durham, fewer than 2% of pupils are from ethnic minorities. In Brent, Tower Hamlets and Newham in London, the figure is above 80%. Such changes will also eventually mean "revisiting" the language of minorities and majorities, he says. This relationship between schools and ethnicity has many sides - with wide variations in achievement between different groups. White working class boys have been identified as particular underachievers. The relatively high performance of schools in inner London has been attributed to the impact of ambitious immigrant families. Professor Hamnett says it is important to gather such objective data showing the population in schools - which will become the future adult population. "Let's have the evidence, even if it is politically difficult," he says. "If we're interested in addressing inequalities in education and access to university, it's only possible if we have gathered the data. "Once a society stops talking about this, it's the worst kind of self-censorship."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The study by Chris Hamnett looked at the changing demographics of schools between 1999 and 2009. In inner London, 67% of secondary pupils are from ethnic minorities, says Professor Hamnett. Gathering such data is important for understanding the future make-up of the population, he says. The study, from the geography department of King's College London, reveals a "very substantial" shift in the population, which Professor Hamnett says represents an "irrevocable" change. Changing places The 57% increase in ethnic minority pupils contrasted with an overall secondary school population rise of 4.7% - and a slight decline in white pupils, a figure that also includes migrants from eastern Europe. Across the country, the proportion of ethnic minority pupils has risen in a decade from 11.5% to 17% - and Professor Hamnett forecasts that it is set to rise again to 20%. He found a pattern of an increasing proportion of ethnic minority pupils in big cities, particularly London. "London as a whole now has an ethnic minority dominated secondary school system, akin to that of many large US cities, and the figure reaches 67% in inner London," says Professor Hamnett. "This is also true of a small number of other towns and cities with large ethnic minorities, notably Slough (64%), Leicester (58%), Birmingham (52%) and Luton (51%). Manchester and Bradford are not far behind with 43%." Professor Hamnett says that this is not about recently arrived children, these are children born in England. And patterns of birth rates indicate that the proportion of ethnic minority pupils will increase in the next decades. Such changes have become a lasting feature of the ethnic make-up of England's population, he says. But he also says it shows a picture of ethnic minority families moving out to towns and suburbs across England. "We're not looking at minorities being trapped or ghettoised in small areas. There's a process of suburbanisation," says Professor Hamnett. This was particularly the case for Asian families, he says. Among the biggest increases were areas such as Merton, Croydon and Enfield. New majority There are also wide differences in the ethnic breakdowns of schools in different parts of the country. In places such as Knowsley, Cumbria and Durham, fewer than 2% of pupils are from ethnic minorities. In Brent, Tower Hamlets and Newham in London, the figure is above 80%. Such changes will also eventually mean "revisiting" the language of minorities and majorities, he says. This relationship between schools and ethnicity has many sides - with wide variations in achievement between different groups. White working class boys have been identified as particular underachievers. The relatively high performance of schools in inner London has been attributed to the impact of ambitious immigrant families. Professor Hamnett says it is important to gather such objective data showing the population in schools - which will become the future adult population. "Let's have the evidence, even if it is politically difficult," he says. "If we're interested in addressing inequalities in education and access to university, it's only possible if we have gathered the data. "Once a society stops talking about this, it's the worst kind of self-censorship." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The study by Chris Hamnett looked at the changing demographics of schools between 1999 and 2009. In inner London, 67% of secondary pupils are from ethnic minorities, says Professor Hamnett. Gathering such data is important for understanding the future make-up of the population, he says. The study, from the geography department of King's College London, reveals a "very substantial" shift in the population, which Professor Hamnett says represents an "irrevocable" change. Changing places The 57% increase in ethnic minority pupils contrasted with an overall secondary school population rise of 4.7% - and a slight decline in white pupils, a figure that also includes migrants from eastern Europe. Across the country, the proportion of ethnic minority pupils has risen in a decade from 11.5% to 17% - and Professor Hamnett forecasts that it is set to rise again to 20%. He found a pattern of an increasing proportion of ethnic minority pupils in big cities, particularly London. "London as a whole now has an ethnic minority dominated secondary school system, akin to that of many large US cities, and the figure reaches 67% in inner London," says Professor Hamnett. "This is also true of a small number of other towns and cities with large ethnic minorities, notably Slough (64%), Leicester (58%), Birmingham (52%) and Luton (51%). Manchester and Bradford are not far behind with 43%." Professor Hamnett says that this is not about recently arrived children, these are children born in England. And patterns of birth rates indicate that the proportion of ethnic minority pupils will increase in the next decades. Such changes have become a lasting feature of the ethnic make-up of England's population, he says. But he also says it shows a picture of ethnic minority families moving out to towns and suburbs across England. "We're not looking at minorities being trapped or ghettoised in small areas. There's a process of suburbanisation," says Professor Hamnett. This was particularly the case for Asian families, he says. Among the biggest increases were areas such as Merton, Croydon and Enfield. New majority There are also wide differences in the ethnic breakdowns of schools in different parts of the country. In places such as Knowsley, Cumbria and Durham, fewer than 2% of pupils are from ethnic minorities. In Brent, Tower Hamlets and Newham in London, the figure is above 80%. Such changes will also eventually mean "revisiting" the language of minorities and majorities, he says. This relationship between schools and ethnicity has many sides - with wide variations in achievement between different groups. White working class boys have been identified as particular underachievers. The relatively high performance of schools in inner London has been attributed to the impact of ambitious immigrant families. Professor Hamnett says it is important to gather such objective data showing the population in schools - which will become the future adult population. "Let's have the evidence, even if it is politically difficult," he says. "If we're interested in addressing inequalities in education and access to university, it's only possible if we have gathered the data. "Once a society stops talking about this, it's the worst kind of self-censorship." ### Summary: The number of ethnic minority pupils in England has risen in a decade, according to a study. ### Source: The number of ethnic minority pupils in England has risen in a decade,

newsbeat-10004785

https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-10004785

Hot Chip drop Glastonbury festival hint

A festival in Somerset has been announced for 2010.

The event, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2010, takes place between 23-27 June at Pilton Farm. Lead singer Alexis Taylor said: "You'll potentially see us in the Somerset area of the UK around the end of June I'd imagine. "I have been to that part of the world and enjoyed being there. Nice cider there, good music and good atmosphere." Hot Chip, who release their fourth studio album One Life Stand on 1 February, last appeared at the festival in 2008. Tickets for Glastonbury 2010 have sold out.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The event, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2010, takes place between 23-27 June at Pilton Farm. Lead singer Alexis Taylor said: "You'll potentially see us in the Somerset area of the UK around the end of June I'd imagine. "I have been to that part of the world and enjoyed being there. Nice cider there, good music and good atmosphere." Hot Chip, who release their fourth studio album One Life Stand on 1 February, last appeared at the festival in 2008. Tickets for Glastonbury 2010 have sold out. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The event, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2010, takes place between 23-27 June at Pilton Farm. Lead singer Alexis Taylor said: "You'll potentially see us in the Somerset area of the UK around the end of June I'd imagine. "I have been to that part of the world and enjoyed being there. Nice cider there, good music and good atmosphere." Hot Chip, who release their fourth studio album One Life Stand on 1 February, last appeared at the festival in 2008. Tickets for Glastonbury 2010 have sold out. ### Summary: A festival in Somerset has been announced for 2010. ### Text: The band have been announced for Glastonbury 2010. ### Summary: A festival in Som

business-39051461

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-39051461

Fewest Londoners moving house since 1991, reports CML

The number of home buyers in London fell by more than a third in 2016, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

By Brian MilliganPersonal Finance reporter The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said home-movers in the capital took out just 32,400 loans in 2016. That was 10% fewer than in 2015 and the lowest number since the recession of 1991. The number of first-time buyers needing a loan also fell. They took out 43,300 mortgages, a drop of 5% on 2015. The total number of home buyers in London in 2016 was the lowest for four years, the CML said. "Persisting supply and affordability issues appear to be exerting an ongoing restraint on growth, meaning there is some uncertainty around how the market will perform going into 2017," said the CML's director general, Paul Smee. 'Transaction friction' However, not everyone agrees that a shortage of homes is the issue. "It is not supply. There are currently tens of thousands of homes for sale in London on Rightmove," said property expert Henry Pryor. He said that it was the cost of moving that was deterring people from buying them. "The problem is the 'transaction friction' - predominantly the higher rates of stamp duty at the upper end." The average home mover in London borrowed £335,000 in 2016, which represented just under four times annual household income. The average house price in the capital is now £484,000, according to the Office for National Statistics. The figures do not include the number of people who paid cash for their new home. Where can I afford to live?

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Brian MilliganPersonal Finance reporter The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said home-movers in the capital took out just 32,400 loans in 2016. That was 10% fewer than in 2015 and the lowest number since the recession of 1991. The number of first-time buyers needing a loan also fell. They took out 43,300 mortgages, a drop of 5% on 2015. The total number of home buyers in London in 2016 was the lowest for four years, the CML said. "Persisting supply and affordability issues appear to be exerting an ongoing restraint on growth, meaning there is some uncertainty around how the market will perform going into 2017," said the CML's director general, Paul Smee. 'Transaction friction' However, not everyone agrees that a shortage of homes is the issue. "It is not supply. There are currently tens of thousands of homes for sale in London on Rightmove," said property expert Henry Pryor. He said that it was the cost of moving that was deterring people from buying them. "The problem is the 'transaction friction' - predominantly the higher rates of stamp duty at the upper end." The average home mover in London borrowed £335,000 in 2016, which represented just under four times annual household income. The average house price in the capital is now £484,000, according to the Office for National Statistics. The figures do not include the number of people who paid cash for their new home. Where can I afford to live? ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Brian MilliganPersonal Finance reporter The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) said home-movers in the capital took out just 32,400 loans in 2016. That was 10% fewer than in 2015 and the lowest number since the recession of 1991. The number of first-time buyers needing a loan also fell. They took out 43,300 mortgages, a drop of 5% on 2015. The total number of home buyers in London in 2016 was the lowest for four years, the CML said. "Persisting supply and affordability issues appear to be exerting an ongoing restraint on growth, meaning there is some uncertainty around how the market will perform going into 2017," said the CML's director general, Paul Smee. 'Transaction friction' However, not everyone agrees that a shortage of homes is the issue. "It is not supply. There are currently tens of thousands of homes for sale in London on Rightmove," said property expert Henry Pryor. He said that it was the cost of moving that was deterring people from buying them. "The problem is the 'transaction friction' - predominantly the higher rates of stamp duty at the upper end." The average home mover in London borrowed £335,000 in 2016, which represented just under four times annual household income. The average house price in the capital is now £484,000, according to the Office for National Statistics. The figures do not include the number of people who paid cash for their new home. Where can I afford to live? ### Summary: The number of home buyers in London fell by more than a third in 2016, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML). ### Source: By Brian MilliganPersonal Finance

uk-england-devon-53664374

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-devon-53664374

Dartmoor camping ban over 'littering, human waste and fires'

A park ranger has said he has not experienced anything like this before.

The Dartmoor National Park Authority said it is trying to stop large numbers of people using Bellever as an informal campsite. One park ranger said he had "not experienced anything like this before", including "littering, human waste and fires" damaging habitats and wildlife. The 27-day ban to allow the area to regenerate begins on Friday. The park said the decision had been taken after a "dramatic increase" in camping and was needed to "protect public health, wildlife and nature". To assist rangers with enforcement, national park marshals will be employed from funding provided by the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez. The authority said: "At Bellever there have been unsustainable levels of anti-social behaviour with littering, human waste and fires causing damage to habitats and animals." 'Risk to wildlife' On one night in July, 70 tents were recorded at Bellever - also known as Riddon Ridge - and 50 fire pits were counted along a 500m (1,640ft) stretch of riverbank. Refuse ranged from disposable barbeques, plastic waste and used toilet paper. Simon Lee, the park's ranger team manager, said: "We've not experienced anything like this before across the national park. "This unsociable behaviour is taking up lots of our time and poses a big risk to other people, wildlife and habitats." Those camping with large tents or in large groups and with lots of equipment must go to a designated campsite with proper facilities, the park said. The only type of camping allowed on specific parts of Dartmoor is backpack camping, a overnight stay of up to two nights. Anyone who does so must carry their equipment in a rucksack and leave no impact on the environment.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Dartmoor National Park Authority said it is trying to stop large numbers of people using Bellever as an informal campsite. One park ranger said he had "not experienced anything like this before", including "littering, human waste and fires" damaging habitats and wildlife. The 27-day ban to allow the area to regenerate begins on Friday. The park said the decision had been taken after a "dramatic increase" in camping and was needed to "protect public health, wildlife and nature". To assist rangers with enforcement, national park marshals will be employed from funding provided by the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez. The authority said: "At Bellever there have been unsustainable levels of anti-social behaviour with littering, human waste and fires causing damage to habitats and animals." 'Risk to wildlife' On one night in July, 70 tents were recorded at Bellever - also known as Riddon Ridge - and 50 fire pits were counted along a 500m (1,640ft) stretch of riverbank. Refuse ranged from disposable barbeques, plastic waste and used toilet paper. Simon Lee, the park's ranger team manager, said: "We've not experienced anything like this before across the national park. "This unsociable behaviour is taking up lots of our time and poses a big risk to other people, wildlife and habitats." Those camping with large tents or in large groups and with lots of equipment must go to a designated campsite with proper facilities, the park said. The only type of camping allowed on specific parts of Dartmoor is backpack camping, a overnight stay of up to two nights. Anyone who does so must carry their equipment in a rucksack and leave no impact on the environment. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Dartmoor National Park Authority said it is trying to stop large numbers of people using Bellever as an informal campsite. One park ranger said he had "not experienced anything like this before", including "littering, human waste and fires" damaging habitats and wildlife. The 27-day ban to allow the area to regenerate begins on Friday. The park said the decision had been taken after a "dramatic increase" in camping and was needed to "protect public health, wildlife and nature". To assist rangers with enforcement, national park marshals will be employed from funding provided by the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez. The authority said: "At Bellever there have been unsustainable levels of anti-social behaviour with littering, human waste and fires causing damage to habitats and animals." 'Risk to wildlife' On one night in July, 70 tents were recorded at Bellever - also known as Riddon Ridge - and 50 fire pits were counted along a 500m (1,640ft) stretch of riverbank. Refuse ranged from disposable barbeques, plastic waste and used toilet paper. Simon Lee, the park's ranger team manager, said: "We've not experienced anything like this before across the national park. "This unsociable behaviour is taking up lots of our time and poses a big risk to other people, wildlife and habitats." Those camping with large tents or in large groups and with lots of equipment must go to a designated campsite with proper facilities, the park said. The only type of camping allowed on specific parts of Dartmoor is backpack camping, a overnight stay of up to two nights. Anyone who does so must carry their equipment in a rucksack and leave no impact on the environment. ### Summary: A park ranger has said he has not experienced anything like this before. ### Source: The Dartmoor National Park Authority has said it is trying to stop large numbers of people using Bellever as an informal cam

world-africa-16373531

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-16373531

Boko Haram attacks prompt Nigeria state of emergency

Nigeria's president has announced a state of emergency in the country's northeastern state of Yobe.

The measure is in force is areas of the Yobe and Borno states in the north-east, Plateau state in central Nigeria and Niger state in the west. International borders in the affected areas have been temporarily closed. In separate clashes, at least 50 people have been killed in the east of the country over a land dispute. A government spokesman said the violence in the state of Ebonyi was the result of a land dispute between the Ezza and Ezilo peoples. Regional presence Mr Jonathan vowed to "crush" Boko Haram, which killed dozens in attacks across the country on Christmas Day. Announcing the state of emergency in a live televised address, Mr Jonathan said: "The temporary closure of our borders in the affected areas is only an interim measure designed to address the current security challenges." There is growing concern that Boko Haram has developed a presence across the region. Earlier this week, leaders of neighbouring Chad and Cameroon were reported to have held talks about how they can help prevent the violence spreading to their countries. Mr Jonathan's announcement means parts of Nigeria's border with Niger, Chad and Cameroon will be sealed until further notice. The president added that his chief of defence staff had been instructed to take other "appropriate" measures, including setting up a special counter-terrorism force. The BBC's Tom Oladipo in Lagos says Mr Jonathan has been under increasing pressure to address the violence, and this announcement reveals his toughest stance so far. Boko Haram is thought to be responsible for a string of major attacks across Nigeria this year. It bombed the headquarters of the UN in August 2011, leaving at least 21 dead and has targeted police as well. It has also in the past targeted Muslim leaders. At least 42 people died in the Christmas Day bombings of churches and other targets. Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes in Maiduguri in Borno State, as well as other cities. 'Cancerous' Earlier on Saturday, speaking at a church in the capital Abuja where 37 people died, the president said Boko Haram had "started as a harmless group" but had "now grown cancerous". "Nigeria being the body, they want to kill it," Mr Jonathan added. "But nobody will allow them to do that." While offering his condolences to victims' relatives at St Theresa's Church in Abuja the president said: "We will crush the terrorists. If there are institutions... which are harbouring terrorists, we will deal with them." Boko Haram, which originated in Maiduguri, wants to impose strict Sharia law across Nigeria. Earlier this week, Nigeria's main Christian group warned that the community might have to defend itself if the security forces could not protect it. Analysts said the move raised the spectre of communal clashes in Africa's most populous nation, which is divided between a largely Muslim north and a mainly Christian and animist south.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The measure is in force is areas of the Yobe and Borno states in the north-east, Plateau state in central Nigeria and Niger state in the west. International borders in the affected areas have been temporarily closed. In separate clashes, at least 50 people have been killed in the east of the country over a land dispute. A government spokesman said the violence in the state of Ebonyi was the result of a land dispute between the Ezza and Ezilo peoples. Regional presence Mr Jonathan vowed to "crush" Boko Haram, which killed dozens in attacks across the country on Christmas Day. Announcing the state of emergency in a live televised address, Mr Jonathan said: "The temporary closure of our borders in the affected areas is only an interim measure designed to address the current security challenges." There is growing concern that Boko Haram has developed a presence across the region. Earlier this week, leaders of neighbouring Chad and Cameroon were reported to have held talks about how they can help prevent the violence spreading to their countries. Mr Jonathan's announcement means parts of Nigeria's border with Niger, Chad and Cameroon will be sealed until further notice. The president added that his chief of defence staff had been instructed to take other "appropriate" measures, including setting up a special counter-terrorism force. The BBC's Tom Oladipo in Lagos says Mr Jonathan has been under increasing pressure to address the violence, and this announcement reveals his toughest stance so far. Boko Haram is thought to be responsible for a string of major attacks across Nigeria this year. It bombed the headquarters of the UN in August 2011, leaving at least 21 dead and has targeted police as well. It has also in the past targeted Muslim leaders. At least 42 people died in the Christmas Day bombings of churches and other targets. Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes in Maiduguri in Borno State, as well as other cities. 'Cancerous' Earlier on Saturday, speaking at a church in the capital Abuja where 37 people died, the president said Boko Haram had "started as a harmless group" but had "now grown cancerous". "Nigeria being the body, they want to kill it," Mr Jonathan added. "But nobody will allow them to do that." While offering his condolences to victims' relatives at St Theresa's Church in Abuja the president said: "We will crush the terrorists. If there are institutions... which are harbouring terrorists, we will deal with them." Boko Haram, which originated in Maiduguri, wants to impose strict Sharia law across Nigeria. Earlier this week, Nigeria's main Christian group warned that the community might have to defend itself if the security forces could not protect it. Analysts said the move raised the spectre of communal clashes in Africa's most populous nation, which is divided between a largely Muslim north and a mainly Christian and animist south. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The measure is in force is areas of the Yobe and Borno states in the north-east, Plateau state in central Nigeria and Niger state in the west. International borders in the affected areas have been temporarily closed. In separate clashes, at least 50 people have been killed in the east of the country over a land dispute. A government spokesman said the violence in the state of Ebonyi was the result of a land dispute between the Ezza and Ezilo peoples. Regional presence Mr Jonathan vowed to "crush" Boko Haram, which killed dozens in attacks across the country on Christmas Day. Announcing the state of emergency in a live televised address, Mr Jonathan said: "The temporary closure of our borders in the affected areas is only an interim measure designed to address the current security challenges." There is growing concern that Boko Haram has developed a presence across the region. Earlier this week, leaders of neighbouring Chad and Cameroon were reported to have held talks about how they can help prevent the violence spreading to their countries. Mr Jonathan's announcement means parts of Nigeria's border with Niger, Chad and Cameroon will be sealed until further notice. The president added that his chief of defence staff had been instructed to take other "appropriate" measures, including setting up a special counter-terrorism force. The BBC's Tom Oladipo in Lagos says Mr Jonathan has been under increasing pressure to address the violence, and this announcement reveals his toughest stance so far. Boko Haram is thought to be responsible for a string of major attacks across Nigeria this year. It bombed the headquarters of the UN in August 2011, leaving at least 21 dead and has targeted police as well. It has also in the past targeted Muslim leaders. At least 42 people died in the Christmas Day bombings of churches and other targets. Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes in Maiduguri in Borno State, as well as other cities. 'Cancerous' Earlier on Saturday, speaking at a church in the capital Abuja where 37 people died, the president said Boko Haram had "started as a harmless group" but had "now grown cancerous". "Nigeria being the body, they want to kill it," Mr Jonathan added. "But nobody will allow them to do that." While offering his condolences to victims' relatives at St Theresa's Church in Abuja the president said: "We will crush the terrorists. If there are institutions... which are harbouring terrorists, we will deal with them." Boko Haram, which originated in Maiduguri, wants to impose strict Sharia law across Nigeria. Earlier this week, Nigeria's main Christian group warned that the community might have to defend itself if the security forces could not protect it. Analysts said the move raised the spectre of communal clashes in Africa's most populous nation, which is divided between a largely Muslim north and a mainly Christian and animist south. ### Summary: Nigeria's president has announced a state of emergency in the country's northeastern state of Yobe. ### Source: Nigeria's president has announced a state of emergency in the country's

uk-northern-ireland-40902700

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-40902700

Airports urge Westminster to review air passenger tax

The chief executives of Belfast International, Belfast City and the City of Derry airports have asked for a review into the impact of scrapping air passenger duty.

By Mark DevenportBBC News NI Political Editor The chief executives of Belfast International, Belfast City and the City of Derry airports want a review into the impact of scrapping the tax. And they want it to begin as soon as possible. The confidence and supply deal struck between the Conservatives and the DUP in June contained a commitment to review air passenger duty. In a letter to First Secretary Damian Green, the airport chiefs said it would be helpful if they could be advised of the timescale for the review and who will carry it out. They said they stand ready to put the case for removing air passenger duty on the grounds of both economic growth and jobs. The three airports have said they "already have a number of our existing and potential airlines ready to commit to flying from Northern Ireland should air passenger duty be removed". They asked that the review could be "initiated, completed and the result implemented as soon as possible".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Mark DevenportBBC News NI Political Editor The chief executives of Belfast International, Belfast City and the City of Derry airports want a review into the impact of scrapping the tax. And they want it to begin as soon as possible. The confidence and supply deal struck between the Conservatives and the DUP in June contained a commitment to review air passenger duty. In a letter to First Secretary Damian Green, the airport chiefs said it would be helpful if they could be advised of the timescale for the review and who will carry it out. They said they stand ready to put the case for removing air passenger duty on the grounds of both economic growth and jobs. The three airports have said they "already have a number of our existing and potential airlines ready to commit to flying from Northern Ireland should air passenger duty be removed". They asked that the review could be "initiated, completed and the result implemented as soon as possible". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Mark DevenportBBC News NI Political Editor The chief executives of Belfast International, Belfast City and the City of Derry airports want a review into the impact of scrapping the tax. And they want it to begin as soon as possible. The confidence and supply deal struck between the Conservatives and the DUP in June contained a commitment to review air passenger duty. In a letter to First Secretary Damian Green, the airport chiefs said it would be helpful if they could be advised of the timescale for the review and who will carry it out. They said they stand ready to put the case for removing air passenger duty on the grounds of both economic growth and jobs. The three airports have said they "already have a number of our existing and potential airlines ready to commit to flying from Northern Ireland should air passenger duty be removed". They asked that the review could be "initiated, completed and the result implemented as soon as possible". ### Summary: The chief executives of Belfast International, Belfast City and the City of Derry airports have asked for a review into the impact of scrapping air passenger duty. ### Source: The three airports have asked

health-36170137

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-36170137

New drugs for aggressive prostate cancer 'promising'

A new class of drugs that target the growth of male hormones has been found to reduce production of androgen receptors in prostate cancer.

In a study on mice, Hsp90 inhibitors were found to strip cancer cells of defences against hormone treatments. This makes the drugs particularly promising for treating drug-resistant cancers, the research team said. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. About one in eight men will get prostate cancer at some point in their lives. It mainly affects men over the age of 50. The cancer can sometimes be treated successfully with hormone treatments, which target androgen receptors linked to the growth of male hormones called androgens. But some prostate cancers don't work that way. Instead they create an abnormal form of androgen receptor which is not linked to the growth of hormones and therefore does not respond to standard hormone treatment. This is the most common form of resistance in prostate cancer which leads to aggressive, difficult-to-treat cancers. 'Network drugs' The latest research, published in the journal Cancer Research, found that a new class of drugs reduced production of both receptors. Professor Paul Workman, study author and chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research, said it was an exciting discovery. "We call Hsp90 inhibitors 'network drugs' because they tackle several of the signals that are hijacked in cancer all at once, across a network rather than just a single signalling pathway. "These drugs can hit cancer harder than those targeting only one protein, and look promising for preventing or overcoming drug resistance." Prof Workman said the next step was to test the Hsp90 inhibitors in clinical trials on patients with aggressive, drug-resistant prostate cancer. Prof Johann de Bono, a professor of experimental cancer medicine at the Institute of Cancer Research, said: "These drugs are already in clinical trials for several types of cancer, and I am excited that our work suggests they could also benefit men with prostate cancer who have otherwise run out of treatment options."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: In a study on mice, Hsp90 inhibitors were found to strip cancer cells of defences against hormone treatments. This makes the drugs particularly promising for treating drug-resistant cancers, the research team said. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. About one in eight men will get prostate cancer at some point in their lives. It mainly affects men over the age of 50. The cancer can sometimes be treated successfully with hormone treatments, which target androgen receptors linked to the growth of male hormones called androgens. But some prostate cancers don't work that way. Instead they create an abnormal form of androgen receptor which is not linked to the growth of hormones and therefore does not respond to standard hormone treatment. This is the most common form of resistance in prostate cancer which leads to aggressive, difficult-to-treat cancers. 'Network drugs' The latest research, published in the journal Cancer Research, found that a new class of drugs reduced production of both receptors. Professor Paul Workman, study author and chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research, said it was an exciting discovery. "We call Hsp90 inhibitors 'network drugs' because they tackle several of the signals that are hijacked in cancer all at once, across a network rather than just a single signalling pathway. "These drugs can hit cancer harder than those targeting only one protein, and look promising for preventing or overcoming drug resistance." Prof Workman said the next step was to test the Hsp90 inhibitors in clinical trials on patients with aggressive, drug-resistant prostate cancer. Prof Johann de Bono, a professor of experimental cancer medicine at the Institute of Cancer Research, said: "These drugs are already in clinical trials for several types of cancer, and I am excited that our work suggests they could also benefit men with prostate cancer who have otherwise run out of treatment options." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: In a study on mice, Hsp90 inhibitors were found to strip cancer cells of defences against hormone treatments. This makes the drugs particularly promising for treating drug-resistant cancers, the research team said. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. About one in eight men will get prostate cancer at some point in their lives. It mainly affects men over the age of 50. The cancer can sometimes be treated successfully with hormone treatments, which target androgen receptors linked to the growth of male hormones called androgens. But some prostate cancers don't work that way. Instead they create an abnormal form of androgen receptor which is not linked to the growth of hormones and therefore does not respond to standard hormone treatment. This is the most common form of resistance in prostate cancer which leads to aggressive, difficult-to-treat cancers. 'Network drugs' The latest research, published in the journal Cancer Research, found that a new class of drugs reduced production of both receptors. Professor Paul Workman, study author and chief executive of the Institute of Cancer Research, said it was an exciting discovery. "We call Hsp90 inhibitors 'network drugs' because they tackle several of the signals that are hijacked in cancer all at once, across a network rather than just a single signalling pathway. "These drugs can hit cancer harder than those targeting only one protein, and look promising for preventing or overcoming drug resistance." Prof Workman said the next step was to test the Hsp90 inhibitors in clinical trials on patients with aggressive, drug-resistant prostate cancer. Prof Johann de Bono, a professor of experimental cancer medicine at the Institute of Cancer Research, said: "These drugs are already in clinical trials for several types of cancer, and I am excited that our work suggests they could also benefit men with prostate cancer who have otherwise run out of treatment options." ### Summary: A new class of drugs that target the growth of male hormones has been found to reduce production of androgen receptors in prostate cancer. ### Next steps: The drugs are already in clinical tri

entertainment-arts-24556715

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-24556715

Veep star Julia Louis-Dreyfus 'would relish' more dramatic roles

Louis-Dreyfus has said she would love to play a romantic comedy in Enough Said.

By Neil SmithEntertainment reporter, BBC News "I would love to spread my wings in that direction, why not?" the multiple Emmy winner told the BBC ahead of the release of her new film Enough Said. The comedy, which had its UK premiere at this year's London Film Festival, tells of a divorcee who finds love just as her daughter is leaving for college. Louis-Dreyfus won her fourth Emmy last month for her role in Veep. Created by Armando Iannucci of The Thick of It fame, the HBO show sees her play an ineffectual US vice president whose attempts to expand her role are continually thwarted. Though ostensibly a romantic comedy, Enough Said - the fifth film by writer-director Nicole Holofcener - has "a couple of very dramatic moments" according to its 52-year-old star. "They were a great joy to do even if they were painful," the actress explained. "I hope my fans will be happily surprised." The film, which had its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September and is released in the UK on Friday, sees Louis-Dreyfus appear alongside James Gandolfini. The late star of The Sopranos plays Albert, a well-meaning man unaware his massage therapist girlfriend - the character Louis-Dreyfus plays - has taken on his vindictive ex-wife as a client. "I've never done anything as deceitful in my life but I understand why she does it," said the actress, who described her co-star as a "gentle giant" and a "dear, dear man". "This is a woman on the precipice who's been emotionally hijacked by herself. The dread and fear of her daughter's impending departure fuels this horrible thing she does." The scene in which her character's deception is exposed was both "tough" and "excruciating" to film, said the New Yorker, who is currently shooting the third season of Veep - a slang term for vice president. "But it was exciting to do something so dramatic about large human emotions."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Neil SmithEntertainment reporter, BBC News "I would love to spread my wings in that direction, why not?" the multiple Emmy winner told the BBC ahead of the release of her new film Enough Said. The comedy, which had its UK premiere at this year's London Film Festival, tells of a divorcee who finds love just as her daughter is leaving for college. Louis-Dreyfus won her fourth Emmy last month for her role in Veep. Created by Armando Iannucci of The Thick of It fame, the HBO show sees her play an ineffectual US vice president whose attempts to expand her role are continually thwarted. Though ostensibly a romantic comedy, Enough Said - the fifth film by writer-director Nicole Holofcener - has "a couple of very dramatic moments" according to its 52-year-old star. "They were a great joy to do even if they were painful," the actress explained. "I hope my fans will be happily surprised." The film, which had its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September and is released in the UK on Friday, sees Louis-Dreyfus appear alongside James Gandolfini. The late star of The Sopranos plays Albert, a well-meaning man unaware his massage therapist girlfriend - the character Louis-Dreyfus plays - has taken on his vindictive ex-wife as a client. "I've never done anything as deceitful in my life but I understand why she does it," said the actress, who described her co-star as a "gentle giant" and a "dear, dear man". "This is a woman on the precipice who's been emotionally hijacked by herself. The dread and fear of her daughter's impending departure fuels this horrible thing she does." The scene in which her character's deception is exposed was both "tough" and "excruciating" to film, said the New Yorker, who is currently shooting the third season of Veep - a slang term for vice president. "But it was exciting to do something so dramatic about large human emotions." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Neil SmithEntertainment reporter, BBC News "I would love to spread my wings in that direction, why not?" the multiple Emmy winner told the BBC ahead of the release of her new film Enough Said. The comedy, which had its UK premiere at this year's London Film Festival, tells of a divorcee who finds love just as her daughter is leaving for college. Louis-Dreyfus won her fourth Emmy last month for her role in Veep. Created by Armando Iannucci of The Thick of It fame, the HBO show sees her play an ineffectual US vice president whose attempts to expand her role are continually thwarted. Though ostensibly a romantic comedy, Enough Said - the fifth film by writer-director Nicole Holofcener - has "a couple of very dramatic moments" according to its 52-year-old star. "They were a great joy to do even if they were painful," the actress explained. "I hope my fans will be happily surprised." The film, which had its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September and is released in the UK on Friday, sees Louis-Dreyfus appear alongside James Gandolfini. The late star of The Sopranos plays Albert, a well-meaning man unaware his massage therapist girlfriend - the character Louis-Dreyfus plays - has taken on his vindictive ex-wife as a client. "I've never done anything as deceitful in my life but I understand why she does it," said the actress, who described her co-star as a "gentle giant" and a "dear, dear man". "This is a woman on the precipice who's been emotionally hijacked by herself. The dread and fear of her daughter's impending departure fuels this horrible thing she does." The scene in which her character's deception is exposed was both "tough" and "excruciating" to film, said the New Yorker, who is currently shooting the third season of Veep - a slang term for vice president. "But it was exciting to do something so dramatic about large human emotions." ### Summary: Louis-Dreyfus has said she would love to play a romantic comedy in Enough Said. ### Text: The actress has said she would love to play a romantic comedy in Enough Said.

uk-wales-politics-37318469

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-37318469

Doctors criticise alcohol minimum pricing block

The Welsh Government has rejected a plan to introduce a minimum price for alcohol.

The Welsh Government wants to set a minimum 50p charge per unit of drink. But UK ministers say alcohol law should remain reserved as it is closely linked to policing, controlled by Westminster. The British Medical Association (BMA) in Wales said the impasse was a potential "hurdle" to a measure which would "save lives". Research for the Welsh Government has suggested a charge of 50p per unit would save nearly £900m over 20 years by cutting crime and illness, leading to 50 fewer deaths a year. Ministers in Cardiff Bay said that after "months of arguing" their request for control over alcohol pricing was rejected by MPs, as they passed the third reading of the Wales Bill on further devolution on Monday. A Wales Office spokesman said: "The UK Government considers that alcohol licensing is closely connected to policing and maintaining public order. "Given that policing and criminal justice remain reserved, alcohol licensing should also continue to be reserved." Dr Phil Banfield, chairman of the BMA's Welsh council, said the introduction of a minimum price would stop alcohol being sold effectively "cheaper than water". "We believe that such a move will save lives through a reduction in alcohol consumption," he said. "We are potentially facing another hurdle to these ambitions being achieved in Wales. "BMA Cymru Wales continues to welcome any advancements in this measure becoming a reality in Wales, with people's health upheld as a priority." Alcohol Concern Cymru director Andrew Misell was also concerned at how cheaply drink could be bought. "Although alcohol is partly a policing and criminal justice matter, it is primarily a public health issue," he said. "With alcohol on sale in Wales for as little as 15½p per unit, and minimum pricing apparently shelved in England, we would say that the time is right to give the assembly the tools to get the job done." Rhun ap Iorwerth, Plaid Cymru's Shadow Health Secretary, said: "We voted for amendments to the Wales Bill to ensure that the power to regulate for this important aspect of public health is devolved to Wales. "Plaid Cymru believes that minimum alcohol pricing would lead to savings to other public services as a result of fewer hospital admissions, and fewer acts of anti-social behaviour." Challenges A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We have argued for many months that the National Assembly should have legislative competence in respect of the sale and supply of alcohol, and we promoted an amendment to the Wales Bill to secure this. "The amendment was rejected in the House of Commons, but we are considering whether the matter should be returned to the House of Lords when the Bill reaches that house later in the autumn." Ministers are also monitoring the situation in Scotland, where minimum pricing plans face a legal challenge from whisky producers, who claim they breach European law. Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said he did not agree with the BMA's view. "Alcohol is so associated with criminal justice, there are so many facets to this debate, and because it's closely associated with criminal justice, policing is not devolved and therefore alcohol pricing should stay with that," he told BBC Wales' Jason Mohammad programme. "Even in Scotland, where they believe they've got the power to introduce minimum pricing, they're being challenged through the court. There's a question whether it would be legal to do it."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Welsh Government wants to set a minimum 50p charge per unit of drink. But UK ministers say alcohol law should remain reserved as it is closely linked to policing, controlled by Westminster. The British Medical Association (BMA) in Wales said the impasse was a potential "hurdle" to a measure which would "save lives". Research for the Welsh Government has suggested a charge of 50p per unit would save nearly £900m over 20 years by cutting crime and illness, leading to 50 fewer deaths a year. Ministers in Cardiff Bay said that after "months of arguing" their request for control over alcohol pricing was rejected by MPs, as they passed the third reading of the Wales Bill on further devolution on Monday. A Wales Office spokesman said: "The UK Government considers that alcohol licensing is closely connected to policing and maintaining public order. "Given that policing and criminal justice remain reserved, alcohol licensing should also continue to be reserved." Dr Phil Banfield, chairman of the BMA's Welsh council, said the introduction of a minimum price would stop alcohol being sold effectively "cheaper than water". "We believe that such a move will save lives through a reduction in alcohol consumption," he said. "We are potentially facing another hurdle to these ambitions being achieved in Wales. "BMA Cymru Wales continues to welcome any advancements in this measure becoming a reality in Wales, with people's health upheld as a priority." Alcohol Concern Cymru director Andrew Misell was also concerned at how cheaply drink could be bought. "Although alcohol is partly a policing and criminal justice matter, it is primarily a public health issue," he said. "With alcohol on sale in Wales for as little as 15½p per unit, and minimum pricing apparently shelved in England, we would say that the time is right to give the assembly the tools to get the job done." Rhun ap Iorwerth, Plaid Cymru's Shadow Health Secretary, said: "We voted for amendments to the Wales Bill to ensure that the power to regulate for this important aspect of public health is devolved to Wales. "Plaid Cymru believes that minimum alcohol pricing would lead to savings to other public services as a result of fewer hospital admissions, and fewer acts of anti-social behaviour." Challenges A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We have argued for many months that the National Assembly should have legislative competence in respect of the sale and supply of alcohol, and we promoted an amendment to the Wales Bill to secure this. "The amendment was rejected in the House of Commons, but we are considering whether the matter should be returned to the House of Lords when the Bill reaches that house later in the autumn." Ministers are also monitoring the situation in Scotland, where minimum pricing plans face a legal challenge from whisky producers, who claim they breach European law. Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said he did not agree with the BMA's view. "Alcohol is so associated with criminal justice, there are so many facets to this debate, and because it's closely associated with criminal justice, policing is not devolved and therefore alcohol pricing should stay with that," he told BBC Wales' Jason Mohammad programme. "Even in Scotland, where they believe they've got the power to introduce minimum pricing, they're being challenged through the court. There's a question whether it would be legal to do it." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Welsh Government wants to set a minimum 50p charge per unit of drink. But UK ministers say alcohol law should remain reserved as it is closely linked to policing, controlled by Westminster. The British Medical Association (BMA) in Wales said the impasse was a potential "hurdle" to a measure which would "save lives". Research for the Welsh Government has suggested a charge of 50p per unit would save nearly £900m over 20 years by cutting crime and illness, leading to 50 fewer deaths a year. Ministers in Cardiff Bay said that after "months of arguing" their request for control over alcohol pricing was rejected by MPs, as they passed the third reading of the Wales Bill on further devolution on Monday. A Wales Office spokesman said: "The UK Government considers that alcohol licensing is closely connected to policing and maintaining public order. "Given that policing and criminal justice remain reserved, alcohol licensing should also continue to be reserved." Dr Phil Banfield, chairman of the BMA's Welsh council, said the introduction of a minimum price would stop alcohol being sold effectively "cheaper than water". "We believe that such a move will save lives through a reduction in alcohol consumption," he said. "We are potentially facing another hurdle to these ambitions being achieved in Wales. "BMA Cymru Wales continues to welcome any advancements in this measure becoming a reality in Wales, with people's health upheld as a priority." Alcohol Concern Cymru director Andrew Misell was also concerned at how cheaply drink could be bought. "Although alcohol is partly a policing and criminal justice matter, it is primarily a public health issue," he said. "With alcohol on sale in Wales for as little as 15½p per unit, and minimum pricing apparently shelved in England, we would say that the time is right to give the assembly the tools to get the job done." Rhun ap Iorwerth, Plaid Cymru's Shadow Health Secretary, said: "We voted for amendments to the Wales Bill to ensure that the power to regulate for this important aspect of public health is devolved to Wales. "Plaid Cymru believes that minimum alcohol pricing would lead to savings to other public services as a result of fewer hospital admissions, and fewer acts of anti-social behaviour." Challenges A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We have argued for many months that the National Assembly should have legislative competence in respect of the sale and supply of alcohol, and we promoted an amendment to the Wales Bill to secure this. "The amendment was rejected in the House of Commons, but we are considering whether the matter should be returned to the House of Lords when the Bill reaches that house later in the autumn." Ministers are also monitoring the situation in Scotland, where minimum pricing plans face a legal challenge from whisky producers, who claim they breach European law. Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said he did not agree with the BMA's view. "Alcohol is so associated with criminal justice, there are so many facets to this debate, and because it's closely associated with criminal justice, policing is not devolved and therefore alcohol pricing should stay with that," he told BBC Wales' Jason Mohammad programme. "Even in Scotland, where they believe they've got the power to introduce minimum pricing, they're being challenged through the court. There's a question whether it would be legal to do it." ### Summary: The Welsh Government has rejected a plan to introduce a minimum price for alcohol. ### Spelling and grammar The Welsh Government has rejected a plan to introduce a minimum price for alcohol. ### Constructed response

entertainment-arts-23462421

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-23462421

Fisherman's Friends story set for big screen

A band from Port Isaac, Wales, have been signed to Universal Music Group.

The 10-piece sea shanty band from Port Isaac went from singing in their local pub to playing the main stage at Glastonbury. Earlier this year band member Trevor Grills and their tour manager were killed after being hit by a stage door. Ealing Studios said filming will start in spring 2014. Cole, who also directed Saving Grace and Made In Dagenham, said he was "very much looking forward" to making "a truly British movie". The Fisherman's Friends have been performing together since 1995 in their local pub, but only got signed by Universal in 2010. The band were given a £1m recording contract after being discovered by music industry bosses during a gig. DJ Johnny Walker said he first heard the group when one of them handed him a CD while he was on holiday in Port Issac. He said after hearing their music he sought out a manager and within several days a record contract had been signed. Their debut album reached the UK's top 10 and turned gold. Tribute single The group were on tour in February when Grills was killed, along with their tour manager Paul McMullen, after becoming trapped under a metal door at a concert venue. Their current single Mary Anne was released as a tribute. The screenplay for the film has been written by Nick Moorcroft and Piers Ashworth who also wrote the recent St Trinian's films. The film's producers said the band would not be given a Hollywood style make-over for the big screen. Casting of the key roles of the 10 singers - ranging in age from 45-80 years old - will happen later this year.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The 10-piece sea shanty band from Port Isaac went from singing in their local pub to playing the main stage at Glastonbury. Earlier this year band member Trevor Grills and their tour manager were killed after being hit by a stage door. Ealing Studios said filming will start in spring 2014. Cole, who also directed Saving Grace and Made In Dagenham, said he was "very much looking forward" to making "a truly British movie". The Fisherman's Friends have been performing together since 1995 in their local pub, but only got signed by Universal in 2010. The band were given a £1m recording contract after being discovered by music industry bosses during a gig. DJ Johnny Walker said he first heard the group when one of them handed him a CD while he was on holiday in Port Issac. He said after hearing their music he sought out a manager and within several days a record contract had been signed. Their debut album reached the UK's top 10 and turned gold. Tribute single The group were on tour in February when Grills was killed, along with their tour manager Paul McMullen, after becoming trapped under a metal door at a concert venue. Their current single Mary Anne was released as a tribute. The screenplay for the film has been written by Nick Moorcroft and Piers Ashworth who also wrote the recent St Trinian's films. The film's producers said the band would not be given a Hollywood style make-over for the big screen. Casting of the key roles of the 10 singers - ranging in age from 45-80 years old - will happen later this year. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The 10-piece sea shanty band from Port Isaac went from singing in their local pub to playing the main stage at Glastonbury. Earlier this year band member Trevor Grills and their tour manager were killed after being hit by a stage door. Ealing Studios said filming will start in spring 2014. Cole, who also directed Saving Grace and Made In Dagenham, said he was "very much looking forward" to making "a truly British movie". The Fisherman's Friends have been performing together since 1995 in their local pub, but only got signed by Universal in 2010. The band were given a £1m recording contract after being discovered by music industry bosses during a gig. DJ Johnny Walker said he first heard the group when one of them handed him a CD while he was on holiday in Port Issac. He said after hearing their music he sought out a manager and within several days a record contract had been signed. Their debut album reached the UK's top 10 and turned gold. Tribute single The group were on tour in February when Grills was killed, along with their tour manager Paul McMullen, after becoming trapped under a metal door at a concert venue. Their current single Mary Anne was released as a tribute. The screenplay for the film has been written by Nick Moorcroft and Piers Ashworth who also wrote the recent St Trinian's films. The film's producers said the band would not be given a Hollywood style make-over for the big screen. Casting of the key roles of the 10 singers - ranging in age from 45-80 years old - will happen later this year. ### Summary: A band from Port Isaac, Wales, have been signed to Universal Music Group. ### Text: A band from Port Isaac, Wales, have been signed to Universal Music Group. ### Summary: A band from

business-37318538

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-37318538

EU rewrites plans to scrap mobile roaming charges

The European Commission has said it will ban roaming charges for EU travellers.

Last year, the European Parliament agreed that extra costs faced by EU travellers using a mobile phone would be scrapped in June 2017. Detailed plans announced this week suggested that charges would only be banned for 90 days a year. That draft has now been ripped up and new plans will be published soon. Bill shocks An interim limit on roaming charges has been in place since April, with a full ban anticipated by June 2017. From that point, users within the EU will be charged the same as they would be in their home country. The aim of the ban, in part, is to prevent EU consumers being caught out by huge bills when downloading films or other data during their European holidays. There have been a number of cases when mobile users have been landed with bills for hundreds of euros or pounds. Critics of the ban suggest the loss of revenue for mobile phone companies could push up prices in general, including prices for non-travellers. 'Listening' The European Commission drew up plans which suggested that the full ban would in fact have a time limit. The proposal would have let companies charge roaming fees to consumers who used their phones abroad for more than 90 days in a year or for more than 30 days in a row. Commission spokesman Alexander Winterstein said that, on average, EU citizens spent 12 days abroad per year. "Roaming charges are going to disappear entirely by June 2017, period," he said. But he added that, on the instruction of Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, the draft proposal of exactly how that would happen would be withdrawn and a new version would be produced. "We have been listening and now we are going back to the drawing board," he said.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Last year, the European Parliament agreed that extra costs faced by EU travellers using a mobile phone would be scrapped in June 2017. Detailed plans announced this week suggested that charges would only be banned for 90 days a year. That draft has now been ripped up and new plans will be published soon. Bill shocks An interim limit on roaming charges has been in place since April, with a full ban anticipated by June 2017. From that point, users within the EU will be charged the same as they would be in their home country. The aim of the ban, in part, is to prevent EU consumers being caught out by huge bills when downloading films or other data during their European holidays. There have been a number of cases when mobile users have been landed with bills for hundreds of euros or pounds. Critics of the ban suggest the loss of revenue for mobile phone companies could push up prices in general, including prices for non-travellers. 'Listening' The European Commission drew up plans which suggested that the full ban would in fact have a time limit. The proposal would have let companies charge roaming fees to consumers who used their phones abroad for more than 90 days in a year or for more than 30 days in a row. Commission spokesman Alexander Winterstein said that, on average, EU citizens spent 12 days abroad per year. "Roaming charges are going to disappear entirely by June 2017, period," he said. But he added that, on the instruction of Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, the draft proposal of exactly how that would happen would be withdrawn and a new version would be produced. "We have been listening and now we are going back to the drawing board," he said. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Last year, the European Parliament agreed that extra costs faced by EU travellers using a mobile phone would be scrapped in June 2017. Detailed plans announced this week suggested that charges would only be banned for 90 days a year. That draft has now been ripped up and new plans will be published soon. Bill shocks An interim limit on roaming charges has been in place since April, with a full ban anticipated by June 2017. From that point, users within the EU will be charged the same as they would be in their home country. The aim of the ban, in part, is to prevent EU consumers being caught out by huge bills when downloading films or other data during their European holidays. There have been a number of cases when mobile users have been landed with bills for hundreds of euros or pounds. Critics of the ban suggest the loss of revenue for mobile phone companies could push up prices in general, including prices for non-travellers. 'Listening' The European Commission drew up plans which suggested that the full ban would in fact have a time limit. The proposal would have let companies charge roaming fees to consumers who used their phones abroad for more than 90 days in a year or for more than 30 days in a row. Commission spokesman Alexander Winterstein said that, on average, EU citizens spent 12 days abroad per year. "Roaming charges are going to disappear entirely by June 2017, period," he said. But he added that, on the instruction of Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, the draft proposal of exactly how that would happen would be withdrawn and a new version would be produced. "We have been listening and now we are going back to the drawing board," he said. ### Summary: The European Commission has said it will ban roaming charges for EU travellers. ### Text: The European Commission has said it will ban roaming charges for EU travellers. ### Summary: The European Commission

uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-24171359

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-24171359

Milton Keynes 'illegal' housing for homeless nearly doubles

A council has been forced to reduce the number of families it houses in bed-and-breakfast accommodation.

By Matt PreceyBBC News Up to the end of March, it housed 35 families in temporary accommodation for longer than the statutory six weeks, but this rose to 60 by the end of June. The council said it was looking to at least halve this by spring 2014, using one-bedroom flats for small families. Housing Minister Mark Prisk said there was "no excuse" for unlawful housing. The authority said the problem had been caused by a decrease in the supply of houses and an increase in those requiring them. It said the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) was aware of its issues. A council spokeswoman said it was doing everything it could to reduce the numbers. 'Bid for funding' Councillor Edith Bald said of the 60 families reported at the end of June, 10 of them had been housed in one-bedroom flats during the past three months. "We did make a bid for additional funding to try and increase the housing supply from the private sector to help but unfortunately that bid was turned down," she said. "Nevertheless, we are continuing to take action ourselves, we are looking very carefully at the private sector housing supply [private rentals] to increase the numbers [of houses] available." Mr Prisk said the "law is clear" and families must only be placed in bed-and-breakfast accommodation as a last resort. "The vast majority of councils are able to house local families effectively, so there is simply no excuse for any family to be stuck in this unlawful accommodation for long periods of time," he said.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Matt PreceyBBC News Up to the end of March, it housed 35 families in temporary accommodation for longer than the statutory six weeks, but this rose to 60 by the end of June. The council said it was looking to at least halve this by spring 2014, using one-bedroom flats for small families. Housing Minister Mark Prisk said there was "no excuse" for unlawful housing. The authority said the problem had been caused by a decrease in the supply of houses and an increase in those requiring them. It said the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) was aware of its issues. A council spokeswoman said it was doing everything it could to reduce the numbers. 'Bid for funding' Councillor Edith Bald said of the 60 families reported at the end of June, 10 of them had been housed in one-bedroom flats during the past three months. "We did make a bid for additional funding to try and increase the housing supply from the private sector to help but unfortunately that bid was turned down," she said. "Nevertheless, we are continuing to take action ourselves, we are looking very carefully at the private sector housing supply [private rentals] to increase the numbers [of houses] available." Mr Prisk said the "law is clear" and families must only be placed in bed-and-breakfast accommodation as a last resort. "The vast majority of councils are able to house local families effectively, so there is simply no excuse for any family to be stuck in this unlawful accommodation for long periods of time," he said. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Matt PreceyBBC News Up to the end of March, it housed 35 families in temporary accommodation for longer than the statutory six weeks, but this rose to 60 by the end of June. The council said it was looking to at least halve this by spring 2014, using one-bedroom flats for small families. Housing Minister Mark Prisk said there was "no excuse" for unlawful housing. The authority said the problem had been caused by a decrease in the supply of houses and an increase in those requiring them. It said the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) was aware of its issues. A council spokeswoman said it was doing everything it could to reduce the numbers. 'Bid for funding' Councillor Edith Bald said of the 60 families reported at the end of June, 10 of them had been housed in one-bedroom flats during the past three months. "We did make a bid for additional funding to try and increase the housing supply from the private sector to help but unfortunately that bid was turned down," she said. "Nevertheless, we are continuing to take action ourselves, we are looking very carefully at the private sector housing supply [private rentals] to increase the numbers [of houses] available." Mr Prisk said the "law is clear" and families must only be placed in bed-and-breakfast accommodation as a last resort. "The vast majority of councils are able to house local families effectively, so there is simply no excuse for any family to be stuck in this unlawful accommodation for long periods of time," he said. ### Summary: A council has been forced to reduce the number of families it houses in bed-and-breakfast accommodation. ### Next story: A council has been forced to reduce the number of families it houses in bed-and-break

uk-england-norfolk-56074195

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-norfolk-56074195

Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital told to improve hygiene amid PPE lapses

A hospital in Norfolk has been rated as "inadequate" by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

They also found lapses in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among staff at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). The Care Quality Commission (CQC) report said the service "did not always control infection risk well". The hospital said it had taken "immediate action" over the concerns. CQC inspectors visited the hospital on Colney Lane, Norwich, in December and said they witnessed five triage nursing staff - who were not wearing eye protection - within two metres of patients, placing them at risk of contracting Covid-19. The emergency department's main waiting area "did not clearly highlight the need for people to socially distance using signs or furniture", according to the CQC report. Inspectors also found that national waiting-time targets were not being met, with walk-in patients not always triaged within 15 minutes of arriving. The triaging of seven patients was delayed by more than an hour, including one who was waiting in "physical discomfort with clear abdominal pain", the report said. As a result of the report, the trust was issued a warning notice that it must make improvements. Inspectors said: "Medical staff told us there were 'extreme staff shortages' which put a lot of pressure on the other staff." But they also highlighted some examples of outstanding practice, including specialist emergency department provision for older people. The trust remains rated as "requires improvement" overall. NNUH chief executive Sam Higginson said the hospital now had "dedicated staff supporting patient triage, available 24/7", adding that the number of nurses had been increased along with eight new consultants. Mr Higginson said he hoped the additional staff would help "bolster the improved culture and stable leadership acknowledged by the CQC". Since the inspection, the hospital said it had put in further infection control procedures and enhanced PPE for workers in the emergency department and in "red zones" - those where confirmed or suspected Covid patients are being treated. Of these staff, 98% have had their first Covid-19 vaccination. In 2020, NNUH was removed from special measures, having been rated as "inadequate" in June 2018. Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk Related Internet Links Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital

Summarize the following text. ### Text: They also found lapses in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among staff at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). The Care Quality Commission (CQC) report said the service "did not always control infection risk well". The hospital said it had taken "immediate action" over the concerns. CQC inspectors visited the hospital on Colney Lane, Norwich, in December and said they witnessed five triage nursing staff - who were not wearing eye protection - within two metres of patients, placing them at risk of contracting Covid-19. The emergency department's main waiting area "did not clearly highlight the need for people to socially distance using signs or furniture", according to the CQC report. Inspectors also found that national waiting-time targets were not being met, with walk-in patients not always triaged within 15 minutes of arriving. The triaging of seven patients was delayed by more than an hour, including one who was waiting in "physical discomfort with clear abdominal pain", the report said. As a result of the report, the trust was issued a warning notice that it must make improvements. Inspectors said: "Medical staff told us there were 'extreme staff shortages' which put a lot of pressure on the other staff." But they also highlighted some examples of outstanding practice, including specialist emergency department provision for older people. The trust remains rated as "requires improvement" overall. NNUH chief executive Sam Higginson said the hospital now had "dedicated staff supporting patient triage, available 24/7", adding that the number of nurses had been increased along with eight new consultants. Mr Higginson said he hoped the additional staff would help "bolster the improved culture and stable leadership acknowledged by the CQC". Since the inspection, the hospital said it had put in further infection control procedures and enhanced PPE for workers in the emergency department and in "red zones" - those where confirmed or suspected Covid patients are being treated. Of these staff, 98% have had their first Covid-19 vaccination. In 2020, NNUH was removed from special measures, having been rated as "inadequate" in June 2018. Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk Related Internet Links Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: They also found lapses in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among staff at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). The Care Quality Commission (CQC) report said the service "did not always control infection risk well". The hospital said it had taken "immediate action" over the concerns. CQC inspectors visited the hospital on Colney Lane, Norwich, in December and said they witnessed five triage nursing staff - who were not wearing eye protection - within two metres of patients, placing them at risk of contracting Covid-19. The emergency department's main waiting area "did not clearly highlight the need for people to socially distance using signs or furniture", according to the CQC report. Inspectors also found that national waiting-time targets were not being met, with walk-in patients not always triaged within 15 minutes of arriving. The triaging of seven patients was delayed by more than an hour, including one who was waiting in "physical discomfort with clear abdominal pain", the report said. As a result of the report, the trust was issued a warning notice that it must make improvements. Inspectors said: "Medical staff told us there were 'extreme staff shortages' which put a lot of pressure on the other staff." But they also highlighted some examples of outstanding practice, including specialist emergency department provision for older people. The trust remains rated as "requires improvement" overall. NNUH chief executive Sam Higginson said the hospital now had "dedicated staff supporting patient triage, available 24/7", adding that the number of nurses had been increased along with eight new consultants. Mr Higginson said he hoped the additional staff would help "bolster the improved culture and stable leadership acknowledged by the CQC". Since the inspection, the hospital said it had put in further infection control procedures and enhanced PPE for workers in the emergency department and in "red zones" - those where confirmed or suspected Covid patients are being treated. Of these staff, 98% have had their first Covid-19 vaccination. In 2020, NNUH was removed from special measures, having been rated as "inadequate" in June 2018. Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk Related Internet Links Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital ### Summary: A hospital in Norfolk has been rated as "inadequate" by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). ### Source: The Care Quality Commission (CQC) ### Details

uk-england-31761556

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-31761556

Dorset and Wiltshire fire authorities merger approved

A new fire service will be created in Dorset.

Fire officials believe the move will help to protect frontline services. The new authority will come into being on 1 April 2016. Fire Services Minister Penny Mordaunt said the merger would "bring great benefits" to the local fire service. Dorset's chief fire officer, Darran Gunter, will lead the authority. The service, which is expected to have a budget of about £55m, will save the two authorities £4.5m a year.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Fire officials believe the move will help to protect frontline services. The new authority will come into being on 1 April 2016. Fire Services Minister Penny Mordaunt said the merger would "bring great benefits" to the local fire service. Dorset's chief fire officer, Darran Gunter, will lead the authority. The service, which is expected to have a budget of about £55m, will save the two authorities £4.5m a year. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Fire officials believe the move will help to protect frontline services. The new authority will come into being on 1 April 2016. Fire Services Minister Penny Mordaunt said the merger would "bring great benefits" to the local fire service. Dorset's chief fire officer, Darran Gunter, will lead the authority. The service, which is expected to have a budget of about £55m, will save the two authorities £4.5m a year. ### Summary: A new fire service will be created in Dorset. ### Source: Fire Services Minister Penny Mordaunt has announced the merger of the two authorities. ### Details: The merger will save the

world-us-canada-51835856

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-51835856

Coronavirus: Up to 70% of Germany could become infected - Merkel

Germany has reported its first coronavirus-related death.

Mrs Merkel made the stark prediction at a news conference on Wednesday alongside Health Minister Jens Spahn. She said since there was no known cure, the focus would fall on slowing the spread of the virus. "It's about winning time," she explained. Her remarks came as Italy entered its second day of a national lockdown. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced the closure of schools, gyms, museums, nightclubs and other venues across the country, which on Wednesday passed 10,000 confirmed infections. What's happening elsewhere? New York's governor announced that troops would be sent into New Rochelle, in an attempt to contain an outbreak of the virus, as the total number of US cases passed 1,000 on Wednesday. A one-mile (1.6km) containment zone was in force around the town north of Manhattan. Some individuals have been quarantined. Music festivals and other major events in the US, including Coachella festival in California, have been cancelled or postponed. In Italy, which has seen a steep rise in cases, the prime minister pledged 25bn euros ($22bn) to tackle the outbreak - up from the 7.5bn euros announced last week. Thousands of flights have been cancelled worldwide as airlines struggle to cope with a slump in demand. A UK health minister, Nadine Dorries, said she had tested positive for coronavirus and was self-isolating at home. Several countries - including Sweden and Bulgaria - have recorded their first deaths, while the number of confirmed cases in Qatar jumped from 24 to 262. China - where the virus was first detected - has seen a total of 80,754 confirmed cases and 3,136 deaths. But it recorded its lowest number of new infections, just 19, on Tuesday. Third patient dies in Germany Germany confirmed its third coronavirus-related death on Wednesday, in the badly affected district of Heinsberg in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The first fatality was an 89-year-old woman who died in the town of Essen, the second a 78-year-old man with pre-existing health conditions who died in Heinsberg. Germany has so far reported 1,296 cases of the virus, according to figures released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for disease control late on Tuesday. The RKI says the virus poses a "moderate" risk to the German public. Lothar Wieler, the president of the RKI, said the body did not believe there was a significant number of undetected cases in the country. Speaking alongside Mr Wieler at a press conference - her first public address on the outbreak - Chancellor Merkel warned that border closures would not be enough to prevent the spread of the virus. She ruled out following Austria's lead in banning visitors from Italy. "This is a test for our solidarity, our common sense and care for each other. And I hope we pass the test," she said. Mrs Merkel also said she was open to scrapping Germany's "black zero" rule to allow new government borrowing. She said it was "an extraordinary situation" and that ending the outbreak came first. However other German health experts say it is unlikely that two-thirds of Germans will end up getting the coronavirus. Virologist Alexander Kekulé, a former federal government advisor on disease control, told German media that in the worst case scenario a maximum of 40,000 people in the country would die. He said this estimation was based on the number of cases in China, where the rate of new infections is slowing. He had earlier said that the German government missed opportunities to contain the outbreak further by shutting schools and cancelling events. Wednesday also saw Berlin city authorities ban all events with more than 1,000 participants until the end of the Easter holidays. "The coronavirus continues to spread. In such a phase, public life must be restricted," said the city's Health Minister, Dilek Kalayci. "The spread of the coronavirus can be slowed down by reducing major events. At the beginning of an epidemic, such a restriction is important."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mrs Merkel made the stark prediction at a news conference on Wednesday alongside Health Minister Jens Spahn. She said since there was no known cure, the focus would fall on slowing the spread of the virus. "It's about winning time," she explained. Her remarks came as Italy entered its second day of a national lockdown. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced the closure of schools, gyms, museums, nightclubs and other venues across the country, which on Wednesday passed 10,000 confirmed infections. What's happening elsewhere? New York's governor announced that troops would be sent into New Rochelle, in an attempt to contain an outbreak of the virus, as the total number of US cases passed 1,000 on Wednesday. A one-mile (1.6km) containment zone was in force around the town north of Manhattan. Some individuals have been quarantined. Music festivals and other major events in the US, including Coachella festival in California, have been cancelled or postponed. In Italy, which has seen a steep rise in cases, the prime minister pledged 25bn euros ($22bn) to tackle the outbreak - up from the 7.5bn euros announced last week. Thousands of flights have been cancelled worldwide as airlines struggle to cope with a slump in demand. A UK health minister, Nadine Dorries, said she had tested positive for coronavirus and was self-isolating at home. Several countries - including Sweden and Bulgaria - have recorded their first deaths, while the number of confirmed cases in Qatar jumped from 24 to 262. China - where the virus was first detected - has seen a total of 80,754 confirmed cases and 3,136 deaths. But it recorded its lowest number of new infections, just 19, on Tuesday. Third patient dies in Germany Germany confirmed its third coronavirus-related death on Wednesday, in the badly affected district of Heinsberg in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The first fatality was an 89-year-old woman who died in the town of Essen, the second a 78-year-old man with pre-existing health conditions who died in Heinsberg. Germany has so far reported 1,296 cases of the virus, according to figures released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for disease control late on Tuesday. The RKI says the virus poses a "moderate" risk to the German public. Lothar Wieler, the president of the RKI, said the body did not believe there was a significant number of undetected cases in the country. Speaking alongside Mr Wieler at a press conference - her first public address on the outbreak - Chancellor Merkel warned that border closures would not be enough to prevent the spread of the virus. She ruled out following Austria's lead in banning visitors from Italy. "This is a test for our solidarity, our common sense and care for each other. And I hope we pass the test," she said. Mrs Merkel also said she was open to scrapping Germany's "black zero" rule to allow new government borrowing. She said it was "an extraordinary situation" and that ending the outbreak came first. However other German health experts say it is unlikely that two-thirds of Germans will end up getting the coronavirus. Virologist Alexander Kekulé, a former federal government advisor on disease control, told German media that in the worst case scenario a maximum of 40,000 people in the country would die. He said this estimation was based on the number of cases in China, where the rate of new infections is slowing. He had earlier said that the German government missed opportunities to contain the outbreak further by shutting schools and cancelling events. Wednesday also saw Berlin city authorities ban all events with more than 1,000 participants until the end of the Easter holidays. "The coronavirus continues to spread. In such a phase, public life must be restricted," said the city's Health Minister, Dilek Kalayci. "The spread of the coronavirus can be slowed down by reducing major events. At the beginning of an epidemic, such a restriction is important." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mrs Merkel made the stark prediction at a news conference on Wednesday alongside Health Minister Jens Spahn. She said since there was no known cure, the focus would fall on slowing the spread of the virus. "It's about winning time," she explained. Her remarks came as Italy entered its second day of a national lockdown. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced the closure of schools, gyms, museums, nightclubs and other venues across the country, which on Wednesday passed 10,000 confirmed infections. What's happening elsewhere? New York's governor announced that troops would be sent into New Rochelle, in an attempt to contain an outbreak of the virus, as the total number of US cases passed 1,000 on Wednesday. A one-mile (1.6km) containment zone was in force around the town north of Manhattan. Some individuals have been quarantined. Music festivals and other major events in the US, including Coachella festival in California, have been cancelled or postponed. In Italy, which has seen a steep rise in cases, the prime minister pledged 25bn euros ($22bn) to tackle the outbreak - up from the 7.5bn euros announced last week. Thousands of flights have been cancelled worldwide as airlines struggle to cope with a slump in demand. A UK health minister, Nadine Dorries, said she had tested positive for coronavirus and was self-isolating at home. Several countries - including Sweden and Bulgaria - have recorded their first deaths, while the number of confirmed cases in Qatar jumped from 24 to 262. China - where the virus was first detected - has seen a total of 80,754 confirmed cases and 3,136 deaths. But it recorded its lowest number of new infections, just 19, on Tuesday. Third patient dies in Germany Germany confirmed its third coronavirus-related death on Wednesday, in the badly affected district of Heinsberg in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The first fatality was an 89-year-old woman who died in the town of Essen, the second a 78-year-old man with pre-existing health conditions who died in Heinsberg. Germany has so far reported 1,296 cases of the virus, according to figures released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for disease control late on Tuesday. The RKI says the virus poses a "moderate" risk to the German public. Lothar Wieler, the president of the RKI, said the body did not believe there was a significant number of undetected cases in the country. Speaking alongside Mr Wieler at a press conference - her first public address on the outbreak - Chancellor Merkel warned that border closures would not be enough to prevent the spread of the virus. She ruled out following Austria's lead in banning visitors from Italy. "This is a test for our solidarity, our common sense and care for each other. And I hope we pass the test," she said. Mrs Merkel also said she was open to scrapping Germany's "black zero" rule to allow new government borrowing. She said it was "an extraordinary situation" and that ending the outbreak came first. However other German health experts say it is unlikely that two-thirds of Germans will end up getting the coronavirus. Virologist Alexander Kekulé, a former federal government advisor on disease control, told German media that in the worst case scenario a maximum of 40,000 people in the country would die. He said this estimation was based on the number of cases in China, where the rate of new infections is slowing. He had earlier said that the German government missed opportunities to contain the outbreak further by shutting schools and cancelling events. Wednesday also saw Berlin city authorities ban all events with more than 1,000 participants until the end of the Easter holidays. "The coronavirus continues to spread. In such a phase, public life must be restricted," said the city's Health Minister, Dilek Kalayci. "The spread of the coronavirus can be slowed down by reducing major events. At the beginning of an epidemic, such a restriction is important." ### Summary: Germany has reported its first coronavirus-related death. The country has reported its first coronavirus-related death. The number of confirmed cases in Germany has risen to 1,296. Germany

uk-england-34810957

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-34810957

Sheep rustlers jailed for Lancashire and Yorkshire thefts

A man has been sentenced to 34 and 21 months for stealing sheep from a farm in Yorkshire.

Eighty-eight ewes were taken from Newton Hall Farm near Skipton, Yorkshire, and Curwen Hill Farm near Wray, Lancaster, in 2013 and 2014. Andrew Piner, 49, admitted theft and burglary, while Thomas Redfern, 26, was found guilty of the offences last year. The men were sentenced to 34 and 21 months respectively. Redfern, of Chisholme Close, Standish, worked at the farm in Yorkshire. Thirty crossbred mule ewes worth about £5,000 were stolen from Newton Hall Farm in September 2013. Then in February 2014, 58 pedigree animals worth £30,000 were stolen following a burglary at Curwen Hill Farm. The pair were caught after the stolen sheep were found at Lathams Farm near Slaidburn in Lancashire, which was managed by Piner, of Deer House Cottages, Gisburn. Some were also found at a second address he rented. PC Andrew Massingham, community beat and wildlife officer for the Lower Lune Valley, said: "These thefts had a significant impact locally as they were committed by people working within and trusted by the farming community. "It is completely unacceptable that people in such positions carried out these despicable crimes."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Eighty-eight ewes were taken from Newton Hall Farm near Skipton, Yorkshire, and Curwen Hill Farm near Wray, Lancaster, in 2013 and 2014. Andrew Piner, 49, admitted theft and burglary, while Thomas Redfern, 26, was found guilty of the offences last year. The men were sentenced to 34 and 21 months respectively. Redfern, of Chisholme Close, Standish, worked at the farm in Yorkshire. Thirty crossbred mule ewes worth about £5,000 were stolen from Newton Hall Farm in September 2013. Then in February 2014, 58 pedigree animals worth £30,000 were stolen following a burglary at Curwen Hill Farm. The pair were caught after the stolen sheep were found at Lathams Farm near Slaidburn in Lancashire, which was managed by Piner, of Deer House Cottages, Gisburn. Some were also found at a second address he rented. PC Andrew Massingham, community beat and wildlife officer for the Lower Lune Valley, said: "These thefts had a significant impact locally as they were committed by people working within and trusted by the farming community. "It is completely unacceptable that people in such positions carried out these despicable crimes." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Eighty-eight ewes were taken from Newton Hall Farm near Skipton, Yorkshire, and Curwen Hill Farm near Wray, Lancaster, in 2013 and 2014. Andrew Piner, 49, admitted theft and burglary, while Thomas Redfern, 26, was found guilty of the offences last year. The men were sentenced to 34 and 21 months respectively. Redfern, of Chisholme Close, Standish, worked at the farm in Yorkshire. Thirty crossbred mule ewes worth about £5,000 were stolen from Newton Hall Farm in September 2013. Then in February 2014, 58 pedigree animals worth £30,000 were stolen following a burglary at Curwen Hill Farm. The pair were caught after the stolen sheep were found at Lathams Farm near Slaidburn in Lancashire, which was managed by Piner, of Deer House Cottages, Gisburn. Some were also found at a second address he rented. PC Andrew Massingham, community beat and wildlife officer for the Lower Lune Valley, said: "These thefts had a significant impact locally as they were committed by people working within and trusted by the farming community. "It is completely unacceptable that people in such positions carried out these despicable crimes." ### Summary: A man has been sentenced to 34 and 21 months for stealing sheep from a farm in Yorkshire. ### Text: A man has been sentenced to 34 and 21 months for ste

10149654

https://www.bbc.com/news/10149654

Telford school ceremony marks £35m redevelopment plan

Plans for a new school for the existing 900 pupils of Abraham Darby School in Madeley have been announced.

Plans for a new school for the existing 900 pupils of Abraham Darby School in Madeley, plus facilities for 200 post-16 students, were announced last year. New sports facilities will also be open to the general public. The redevelopment is part of a six-year schools project in the Telford and Wrekin area.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Plans for a new school for the existing 900 pupils of Abraham Darby School in Madeley, plus facilities for 200 post-16 students, were announced last year. New sports facilities will also be open to the general public. The redevelopment is part of a six-year schools project in the Telford and Wrekin area. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Plans for a new school for the existing 900 pupils of Abraham Darby School in Madeley, plus facilities for 200 post-16 students, were announced last year. New sports facilities will also be open to the general public. The redevelopment is part of a six-year schools project in the Telford and Wrekin area. ### Summary: Plans for a new school for the existing 900 pupils of Abraham Darby School in Madeley have been announced. ### Source: Telford and Wrekin Council ### Text: The

uk-politics-54603995

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-54603995

Brexit: UK calls for change as EU makes trade talks pledge

The UK has said it is "not resigned" to the prospect of failing to agree a trade deal with the EU.

Its negotiator Michel Barnier said the bloc was prepared to discuss all areas of disagreement, including fishing and competition, based on legal texts. Michael Gove said he welcomed the bloc's latest "constructive" step. Later, No 10 said there was "no basis to resume talks" unless there was a "fundamental change" from the EU. The UK has accused the EU of dragging its feet and failing to respect its sovereignty in the negotiations. In a Commons statement, Cabinet Office Minister Mr Gove said his "door was not closed" to further talks but the EU needed to change its position for the process to continue. After a call between Mr Barnier and the UK's chief negotiator, Lord Frost, Downing Street released a statement saying the EU needed to try to find an agreement "between sovereign equals". On Friday, No 10 suggested formal negotiations were "over" as the EU was not serious about discussing the details of a free trade agreement similar to the one it has with Canada - the UK's preferred outcome. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK should "get ready" to trade with the EU from 1 January, when it leaves the single market and customs union, without a specific agreement. But following a video call with his UK counterpart Lord Frost on Monday, Mr Barnier said he was willing to accelerate the process in the coming days to try to bridge the gap between the two sides. Mr Barnier suggested all subjects would be on the table and the discussions would be based on specific legal texts, which the UK has accused the EU of refusing to consider in recent weeks. In response, Lord Frost tweeted that the proposal to intensify work had been noted, and added: "But the EU still needs to make a fundamental change in approach to the talks and make clear it has done so." Updating MPs on the state of the talks, Mr Gove said the EU's latest move was a positive one and suggested the UK would respond in kind. He said: "Even while I have been at the despatch box, it has been reported that there has been a constructive move on the part of the EU and I welcome that. "We need to make sure we work on the basis of the intensification they propose and I prefer to look forward in optimism rather than look back in anger." He added: "If there has been movement, and there seems to be movement, then no-one would welcome it more than me but what we can't have from the EU is the illusion of engagement without the reality of compromise." Some senior Conservatives have urged the government to walk away from the talks, suggesting the EU is no longer negotiating in "good faith". Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the EU's "refusal" to engage in meaningful talks on trade in financial services and agricultural products was a breach of the terms of the withdrawal agreement governing the UK's exit. Security concerns The government has said the UK will prosper whatever the outcome of the negotiations, as it will be able to exercise freedoms not available while being an EU member. But business groups have warned the UK's fallback option of a so-called "Australian-style" arrangement - where UK-EU trade will default to World Trade Organization rules - would be disastrous as it would see tariffs on goods moving across the channel. With less than 75 days to go before the transition period ends on 31 December, the government has urged business to step up its preparations for the looming changes to trading rules. The PM will hold a meeting with industry groups on Tuesday to emphasise the need for action. Labour has said the government only has itself to blame for the current uncertainty, shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves calling on ministers to be "honest" about the effect on the UK of not agreeing a trade deal. And former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May suggested the implications of failing to agree a future partnership would also be highly damaging for the UK's security. Mrs May, who quit last year after Parliament rejected her withdrawal agreement three times, said the UK "should not be resigned" to the prospect of failing to agree a deal over law enforcement and information sharing. She warned that "if the UK walks away with no deal, then our police and law enforcement agencies will no longer have the necessary access to databases in order to be able to continue to identify and catch criminals and potential terrorists in order to keep us safe". In response, Mr Gove said "significant progress" had been made in terms of security co-operation but the EU could not make access to databases conditional on the UK accepting the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Its negotiator Michel Barnier said the bloc was prepared to discuss all areas of disagreement, including fishing and competition, based on legal texts. Michael Gove said he welcomed the bloc's latest "constructive" step. Later, No 10 said there was "no basis to resume talks" unless there was a "fundamental change" from the EU. The UK has accused the EU of dragging its feet and failing to respect its sovereignty in the negotiations. In a Commons statement, Cabinet Office Minister Mr Gove said his "door was not closed" to further talks but the EU needed to change its position for the process to continue. After a call between Mr Barnier and the UK's chief negotiator, Lord Frost, Downing Street released a statement saying the EU needed to try to find an agreement "between sovereign equals". On Friday, No 10 suggested formal negotiations were "over" as the EU was not serious about discussing the details of a free trade agreement similar to the one it has with Canada - the UK's preferred outcome. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK should "get ready" to trade with the EU from 1 January, when it leaves the single market and customs union, without a specific agreement. But following a video call with his UK counterpart Lord Frost on Monday, Mr Barnier said he was willing to accelerate the process in the coming days to try to bridge the gap between the two sides. Mr Barnier suggested all subjects would be on the table and the discussions would be based on specific legal texts, which the UK has accused the EU of refusing to consider in recent weeks. In response, Lord Frost tweeted that the proposal to intensify work had been noted, and added: "But the EU still needs to make a fundamental change in approach to the talks and make clear it has done so." Updating MPs on the state of the talks, Mr Gove said the EU's latest move was a positive one and suggested the UK would respond in kind. He said: "Even while I have been at the despatch box, it has been reported that there has been a constructive move on the part of the EU and I welcome that. "We need to make sure we work on the basis of the intensification they propose and I prefer to look forward in optimism rather than look back in anger." He added: "If there has been movement, and there seems to be movement, then no-one would welcome it more than me but what we can't have from the EU is the illusion of engagement without the reality of compromise." Some senior Conservatives have urged the government to walk away from the talks, suggesting the EU is no longer negotiating in "good faith". Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the EU's "refusal" to engage in meaningful talks on trade in financial services and agricultural products was a breach of the terms of the withdrawal agreement governing the UK's exit. Security concerns The government has said the UK will prosper whatever the outcome of the negotiations, as it will be able to exercise freedoms not available while being an EU member. But business groups have warned the UK's fallback option of a so-called "Australian-style" arrangement - where UK-EU trade will default to World Trade Organization rules - would be disastrous as it would see tariffs on goods moving across the channel. With less than 75 days to go before the transition period ends on 31 December, the government has urged business to step up its preparations for the looming changes to trading rules. The PM will hold a meeting with industry groups on Tuesday to emphasise the need for action. Labour has said the government only has itself to blame for the current uncertainty, shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves calling on ministers to be "honest" about the effect on the UK of not agreeing a trade deal. And former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May suggested the implications of failing to agree a future partnership would also be highly damaging for the UK's security. Mrs May, who quit last year after Parliament rejected her withdrawal agreement three times, said the UK "should not be resigned" to the prospect of failing to agree a deal over law enforcement and information sharing. She warned that "if the UK walks away with no deal, then our police and law enforcement agencies will no longer have the necessary access to databases in order to be able to continue to identify and catch criminals and potential terrorists in order to keep us safe". In response, Mr Gove said "significant progress" had been made in terms of security co-operation but the EU could not make access to databases conditional on the UK accepting the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Its negotiator Michel Barnier said the bloc was prepared to discuss all areas of disagreement, including fishing and competition, based on legal texts. Michael Gove said he welcomed the bloc's latest "constructive" step. Later, No 10 said there was "no basis to resume talks" unless there was a "fundamental change" from the EU. The UK has accused the EU of dragging its feet and failing to respect its sovereignty in the negotiations. In a Commons statement, Cabinet Office Minister Mr Gove said his "door was not closed" to further talks but the EU needed to change its position for the process to continue. After a call between Mr Barnier and the UK's chief negotiator, Lord Frost, Downing Street released a statement saying the EU needed to try to find an agreement "between sovereign equals". On Friday, No 10 suggested formal negotiations were "over" as the EU was not serious about discussing the details of a free trade agreement similar to the one it has with Canada - the UK's preferred outcome. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK should "get ready" to trade with the EU from 1 January, when it leaves the single market and customs union, without a specific agreement. But following a video call with his UK counterpart Lord Frost on Monday, Mr Barnier said he was willing to accelerate the process in the coming days to try to bridge the gap between the two sides. Mr Barnier suggested all subjects would be on the table and the discussions would be based on specific legal texts, which the UK has accused the EU of refusing to consider in recent weeks. In response, Lord Frost tweeted that the proposal to intensify work had been noted, and added: "But the EU still needs to make a fundamental change in approach to the talks and make clear it has done so." Updating MPs on the state of the talks, Mr Gove said the EU's latest move was a positive one and suggested the UK would respond in kind. He said: "Even while I have been at the despatch box, it has been reported that there has been a constructive move on the part of the EU and I welcome that. "We need to make sure we work on the basis of the intensification they propose and I prefer to look forward in optimism rather than look back in anger." He added: "If there has been movement, and there seems to be movement, then no-one would welcome it more than me but what we can't have from the EU is the illusion of engagement without the reality of compromise." Some senior Conservatives have urged the government to walk away from the talks, suggesting the EU is no longer negotiating in "good faith". Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the EU's "refusal" to engage in meaningful talks on trade in financial services and agricultural products was a breach of the terms of the withdrawal agreement governing the UK's exit. Security concerns The government has said the UK will prosper whatever the outcome of the negotiations, as it will be able to exercise freedoms not available while being an EU member. But business groups have warned the UK's fallback option of a so-called "Australian-style" arrangement - where UK-EU trade will default to World Trade Organization rules - would be disastrous as it would see tariffs on goods moving across the channel. With less than 75 days to go before the transition period ends on 31 December, the government has urged business to step up its preparations for the looming changes to trading rules. The PM will hold a meeting with industry groups on Tuesday to emphasise the need for action. Labour has said the government only has itself to blame for the current uncertainty, shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves calling on ministers to be "honest" about the effect on the UK of not agreeing a trade deal. And former Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May suggested the implications of failing to agree a future partnership would also be highly damaging for the UK's security. Mrs May, who quit last year after Parliament rejected her withdrawal agreement three times, said the UK "should not be resigned" to the prospect of failing to agree a deal over law enforcement and information sharing. She warned that "if the UK walks away with no deal, then our police and law enforcement agencies will no longer have the necessary access to databases in order to be able to continue to identify and catch criminals and potential terrorists in order to keep us safe". In response, Mr Gove said "significant progress" had been made in terms of security co-operation but the EU could not make access to databases conditional on the UK accepting the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. ### Summary: The UK has said it is "not resigned" to the prospect of failing to agree a trade deal with the EU. ### Text: The UK government has said it will not walk away from the negotiations with the EU.

business-24604218

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-24604218

UK nuclear power plant gets go-ahead

The UK government has agreed a deal with EDF Energy to build a new nuclear power station in Somerset.

France's EDF Energy will lead a consortium, which includes Chinese investors, to build the Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset. Ministers say the deal will help take the UK towards low-carbon power and lower generating costs in future. Critics warn guaranteeing the group a price for electricity at twice the current level will raise bills. "For the first time, a nuclear station in this country will not have been built with money from the British taxpayer," said Secretary of State for Energy Edward Davey. The two reactors planned for Hinkley, which will provide power for about 60 years, are a key part of the coalition's drive to shift the UK away from fossil fuels towards low-carbon power. Ministers and EDF have been in talks for more than a year about the minimum price the company will be paid for electricity produced at the site, which the government estimates will cost £16bn to build. The two sides have now agreed the "strike price" of £92.50 for every megawatt hour of energy Hinkley C generates. This is almost twice the current wholesale cost of electricity. This will fall to £89.50 for every megawatt hour of energy if EDF Group goes ahead with plans to develop a new nuclear power station at Sizewell in Suffolk. Doing both would allow EDF to share costs across both projects. The wholesale cost of generating electricity in £/MWh Mr Davey said the deal was "competitive" with other large-scale clean energy and gas projects. "While consumers won't pay anything up front, they'll share directly in any gains made from the project coming in under budget," he added. John Cridland, director-general of business lobby group the CBI, welcomed what he said was a "landmark deal". "It's important to remember this investment will help mitigate the impact of increasing costs. The fact is whatever we do, energy prices are going to have to go up to replace ageing infrastructure and meet climate change targets - unless we build new nuclear as part of a diverse energy mix." However, Dr Paul Dorfman, from the Energy Institute at University College London, said "what it equates to actually is a subsidy and the coalition said they would never subsidise nuclear". He added: "It is essentially a subsidy of between what we calculate to be £800m to £1bn a year that the UK taxpayer and energy consumer will be putting into the deep pockets of Chinese and French corporations, which are essentially their governments." China invests Chinese companies China National Nuclear Corporation and China General Nuclear Power Corporation will be minority shareholders in the project. The move follows Chancellor George Osborne's announcement last week that Chinese firms would be allowed to invest in civil nuclear projects in the UK. Prime Minister David Cameron said that the new Hinkley Point plant was "an excellent deal for Britain and British consumers". "This underlines the confidence there is in Britain and makes clear that we are very much open for business," he added. Labour leader Ed Miliband, who has pledged to freeze energy prices for 20 months if he wins the next election, said the party supported the development of new nuclear power stations, but would scrutinise the terms of the deal to ensure it delivered value for money for consumers. "We've got the Prime Minister who says he can fix prices 35 years ahead for the energy companies but he can't freeze prices now for the consumer. No wonder we've got a cost of living crisis in this country," he added. The existing plant at Hinkley currently produces about 1% of the UK's total energy, but this is expected to rise to 7% once the expansion is complete in 2023. The announcement is not legally binding and it will be 2014 before EDF makes a final investment decision on the project. The plans will also require state aid clearance from the European Commission. But it comes as concerns about domestic energy bills move up the agenda, with SSE, British Gas and Npower, three of the UK's "big six" gas and electricity suppliers, all having announced price increases. The government estimates that with new nuclear power - including Hinkley - the average energy bill in 2030 will be £77 lower than it would have been without the new plants. Energy UK, the trade body for the industry, said the agreement on Hinkley was "good news". "Building new power stations is never quick or cheap, but in the case of Hinkley development, nothing goes on the bill until 2020," it said. About 25,000 jobs are expected to be created during construction of the power plant, as well as 900 permanent jobs during its 60-year operation.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: France's EDF Energy will lead a consortium, which includes Chinese investors, to build the Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset. Ministers say the deal will help take the UK towards low-carbon power and lower generating costs in future. Critics warn guaranteeing the group a price for electricity at twice the current level will raise bills. "For the first time, a nuclear station in this country will not have been built with money from the British taxpayer," said Secretary of State for Energy Edward Davey. The two reactors planned for Hinkley, which will provide power for about 60 years, are a key part of the coalition's drive to shift the UK away from fossil fuels towards low-carbon power. Ministers and EDF have been in talks for more than a year about the minimum price the company will be paid for electricity produced at the site, which the government estimates will cost £16bn to build. The two sides have now agreed the "strike price" of £92.50 for every megawatt hour of energy Hinkley C generates. This is almost twice the current wholesale cost of electricity. This will fall to £89.50 for every megawatt hour of energy if EDF Group goes ahead with plans to develop a new nuclear power station at Sizewell in Suffolk. Doing both would allow EDF to share costs across both projects. The wholesale cost of generating electricity in £/MWh Mr Davey said the deal was "competitive" with other large-scale clean energy and gas projects. "While consumers won't pay anything up front, they'll share directly in any gains made from the project coming in under budget," he added. John Cridland, director-general of business lobby group the CBI, welcomed what he said was a "landmark deal". "It's important to remember this investment will help mitigate the impact of increasing costs. The fact is whatever we do, energy prices are going to have to go up to replace ageing infrastructure and meet climate change targets - unless we build new nuclear as part of a diverse energy mix." However, Dr Paul Dorfman, from the Energy Institute at University College London, said "what it equates to actually is a subsidy and the coalition said they would never subsidise nuclear". He added: "It is essentially a subsidy of between what we calculate to be £800m to £1bn a year that the UK taxpayer and energy consumer will be putting into the deep pockets of Chinese and French corporations, which are essentially their governments." China invests Chinese companies China National Nuclear Corporation and China General Nuclear Power Corporation will be minority shareholders in the project. The move follows Chancellor George Osborne's announcement last week that Chinese firms would be allowed to invest in civil nuclear projects in the UK. Prime Minister David Cameron said that the new Hinkley Point plant was "an excellent deal for Britain and British consumers". "This underlines the confidence there is in Britain and makes clear that we are very much open for business," he added. Labour leader Ed Miliband, who has pledged to freeze energy prices for 20 months if he wins the next election, said the party supported the development of new nuclear power stations, but would scrutinise the terms of the deal to ensure it delivered value for money for consumers. "We've got the Prime Minister who says he can fix prices 35 years ahead for the energy companies but he can't freeze prices now for the consumer. No wonder we've got a cost of living crisis in this country," he added. The existing plant at Hinkley currently produces about 1% of the UK's total energy, but this is expected to rise to 7% once the expansion is complete in 2023. The announcement is not legally binding and it will be 2014 before EDF makes a final investment decision on the project. The plans will also require state aid clearance from the European Commission. But it comes as concerns about domestic energy bills move up the agenda, with SSE, British Gas and Npower, three of the UK's "big six" gas and electricity suppliers, all having announced price increases. The government estimates that with new nuclear power - including Hinkley - the average energy bill in 2030 will be £77 lower than it would have been without the new plants. Energy UK, the trade body for the industry, said the agreement on Hinkley was "good news". "Building new power stations is never quick or cheap, but in the case of Hinkley development, nothing goes on the bill until 2020," it said. About 25,000 jobs are expected to be created during construction of the power plant, as well as 900 permanent jobs during its 60-year operation. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: France's EDF Energy will lead a consortium, which includes Chinese investors, to build the Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset. Ministers say the deal will help take the UK towards low-carbon power and lower generating costs in future. Critics warn guaranteeing the group a price for electricity at twice the current level will raise bills. "For the first time, a nuclear station in this country will not have been built with money from the British taxpayer," said Secretary of State for Energy Edward Davey. The two reactors planned for Hinkley, which will provide power for about 60 years, are a key part of the coalition's drive to shift the UK away from fossil fuels towards low-carbon power. Ministers and EDF have been in talks for more than a year about the minimum price the company will be paid for electricity produced at the site, which the government estimates will cost £16bn to build. The two sides have now agreed the "strike price" of £92.50 for every megawatt hour of energy Hinkley C generates. This is almost twice the current wholesale cost of electricity. This will fall to £89.50 for every megawatt hour of energy if EDF Group goes ahead with plans to develop a new nuclear power station at Sizewell in Suffolk. Doing both would allow EDF to share costs across both projects. The wholesale cost of generating electricity in £/MWh Mr Davey said the deal was "competitive" with other large-scale clean energy and gas projects. "While consumers won't pay anything up front, they'll share directly in any gains made from the project coming in under budget," he added. John Cridland, director-general of business lobby group the CBI, welcomed what he said was a "landmark deal". "It's important to remember this investment will help mitigate the impact of increasing costs. The fact is whatever we do, energy prices are going to have to go up to replace ageing infrastructure and meet climate change targets - unless we build new nuclear as part of a diverse energy mix." However, Dr Paul Dorfman, from the Energy Institute at University College London, said "what it equates to actually is a subsidy and the coalition said they would never subsidise nuclear". He added: "It is essentially a subsidy of between what we calculate to be £800m to £1bn a year that the UK taxpayer and energy consumer will be putting into the deep pockets of Chinese and French corporations, which are essentially their governments." China invests Chinese companies China National Nuclear Corporation and China General Nuclear Power Corporation will be minority shareholders in the project. The move follows Chancellor George Osborne's announcement last week that Chinese firms would be allowed to invest in civil nuclear projects in the UK. Prime Minister David Cameron said that the new Hinkley Point plant was "an excellent deal for Britain and British consumers". "This underlines the confidence there is in Britain and makes clear that we are very much open for business," he added. Labour leader Ed Miliband, who has pledged to freeze energy prices for 20 months if he wins the next election, said the party supported the development of new nuclear power stations, but would scrutinise the terms of the deal to ensure it delivered value for money for consumers. "We've got the Prime Minister who says he can fix prices 35 years ahead for the energy companies but he can't freeze prices now for the consumer. No wonder we've got a cost of living crisis in this country," he added. The existing plant at Hinkley currently produces about 1% of the UK's total energy, but this is expected to rise to 7% once the expansion is complete in 2023. The announcement is not legally binding and it will be 2014 before EDF makes a final investment decision on the project. The plans will also require state aid clearance from the European Commission. But it comes as concerns about domestic energy bills move up the agenda, with SSE, British Gas and Npower, three of the UK's "big six" gas and electricity suppliers, all having announced price increases. The government estimates that with new nuclear power - including Hinkley - the average energy bill in 2030 will be £77 lower than it would have been without the new plants. Energy UK, the trade body for the industry, said the agreement on Hinkley was "good news". "Building new power stations is never quick or cheap, but in the case of Hinkley development, nothing goes on the bill until 2020," it said. About 25,000 jobs are expected to be created during construction of the power plant, as well as 900 permanent jobs during its 60-year operation. ### Summary: The UK government has agreed a deal with EDF Energy to build a new nuclear power station in Somerset. ### Text: The government has agreed a deal with EDF Energy to build a new nuclear power station in Somerset.

uk-wales-47490318

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-47490318

Alopecia: Brecon dancer, 25, tackles hair loss head on

A woman who lost her hair in a week has been diagnosed with alopecia universalis.

Josie Sinnadurai, from Brecon, realised her hair was falling out in December, the week before her 25th birthday. But she tackled the condition head on and held a party where she was filmed shaving off her hair. The 25-year-old, who appeared alongside Woody Harrelson and Owen Wilson in Lost in London, even booked a photo shoot. "I woke up in the morning to find my pillow covered in hair," she said. "When I washed or brushed it, huge clumps fell out." While Josie, who currently works in the Spanish city of Seville as a flamenco dancer, was back home in Powys for Christmas, she saw her GP who reassured her the condition was probably just temporary. "But back in Spain, I continued to lose my hair," she added. "I saw a dermatologist who prescribed a series of medications with the hope my hair would grow back. "I tried not to stress about it. I have a busy life as a dancer and I didn't want this to affect my performances." But a couple of weeks later, Josie noticed she was losing body and facial hair, too. "My leg hair, eyebrows, eyelashes - it was all falling out," explained Josie, who has travelled the world as a dancer, including Germany, Spain, Israel and Canada. Doctors diagnosed her with alopecia universalis, an autoimmune condition characterised by a complete loss of hair on the scalp and body. She was told her hair was unlikely to ever grow back. "My hair was long and thick, my crowning glory, so I was obviously concerned. It was devastating," Josie said. "Not much is known about the condition and there is no definitive treatment. I had to come to terms with losing my hair forever." Josie decided on a strategy to help her accept what was happening - a "ritual" to say goodbye to her hair. 'Only my appearance' She said: "After a couple of days processing the diagnosis, I calmed down and told myself that this wasn't the worst thing in the world that could happen. "I wasn't in pain and it wasn't like losing my hair was going to kill me. At the end of the day, this was only my appearance. "I booked a photo shoot so I'd have lovely photographs of myself with hair to look back on. "Then I decided to shave off what was left of my hair. It was falling out so quickly that nothing short of a miracle would save it anyway." Josie invited her friends over to share a Mexican feast and film her while she had her hair shaved off. "I even baked a cake. It was my way of saying goodbye to my hair," the dancer explained. "The evening was very emotional but also a celebration." Josie arranged to have a henna crown tattoo, adding: "Being proactive about my hair loss gave me the confidence to move forward with my life. "Instead of feeling down and sad, I felt excited about the future. "If I'm somewhere like London, people don't bat an eyelid, but here in Seville I do stand out and attract attention. I understand I look unusual and people stare - but it doesn't bother me. "All my friends have been really supportive and encourage me not to wear a wig. "But my head gets cold so I have to wear a headscarf sometimes." But what lies ahead for her career as a world class flamenco dancer? "Artistically, I haven't decided what I'll do," she said. "The world of flamenco is very traditional. A bald dancer would be really pushing the boundaries."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Josie Sinnadurai, from Brecon, realised her hair was falling out in December, the week before her 25th birthday. But she tackled the condition head on and held a party where she was filmed shaving off her hair. The 25-year-old, who appeared alongside Woody Harrelson and Owen Wilson in Lost in London, even booked a photo shoot. "I woke up in the morning to find my pillow covered in hair," she said. "When I washed or brushed it, huge clumps fell out." While Josie, who currently works in the Spanish city of Seville as a flamenco dancer, was back home in Powys for Christmas, she saw her GP who reassured her the condition was probably just temporary. "But back in Spain, I continued to lose my hair," she added. "I saw a dermatologist who prescribed a series of medications with the hope my hair would grow back. "I tried not to stress about it. I have a busy life as a dancer and I didn't want this to affect my performances." But a couple of weeks later, Josie noticed she was losing body and facial hair, too. "My leg hair, eyebrows, eyelashes - it was all falling out," explained Josie, who has travelled the world as a dancer, including Germany, Spain, Israel and Canada. Doctors diagnosed her with alopecia universalis, an autoimmune condition characterised by a complete loss of hair on the scalp and body. She was told her hair was unlikely to ever grow back. "My hair was long and thick, my crowning glory, so I was obviously concerned. It was devastating," Josie said. "Not much is known about the condition and there is no definitive treatment. I had to come to terms with losing my hair forever." Josie decided on a strategy to help her accept what was happening - a "ritual" to say goodbye to her hair. 'Only my appearance' She said: "After a couple of days processing the diagnosis, I calmed down and told myself that this wasn't the worst thing in the world that could happen. "I wasn't in pain and it wasn't like losing my hair was going to kill me. At the end of the day, this was only my appearance. "I booked a photo shoot so I'd have lovely photographs of myself with hair to look back on. "Then I decided to shave off what was left of my hair. It was falling out so quickly that nothing short of a miracle would save it anyway." Josie invited her friends over to share a Mexican feast and film her while she had her hair shaved off. "I even baked a cake. It was my way of saying goodbye to my hair," the dancer explained. "The evening was very emotional but also a celebration." Josie arranged to have a henna crown tattoo, adding: "Being proactive about my hair loss gave me the confidence to move forward with my life. "Instead of feeling down and sad, I felt excited about the future. "If I'm somewhere like London, people don't bat an eyelid, but here in Seville I do stand out and attract attention. I understand I look unusual and people stare - but it doesn't bother me. "All my friends have been really supportive and encourage me not to wear a wig. "But my head gets cold so I have to wear a headscarf sometimes." But what lies ahead for her career as a world class flamenco dancer? "Artistically, I haven't decided what I'll do," she said. "The world of flamenco is very traditional. A bald dancer would be really pushing the boundaries." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Josie Sinnadurai, from Brecon, realised her hair was falling out in December, the week before her 25th birthday. But she tackled the condition head on and held a party where she was filmed shaving off her hair. The 25-year-old, who appeared alongside Woody Harrelson and Owen Wilson in Lost in London, even booked a photo shoot. "I woke up in the morning to find my pillow covered in hair," she said. "When I washed or brushed it, huge clumps fell out." While Josie, who currently works in the Spanish city of Seville as a flamenco dancer, was back home in Powys for Christmas, she saw her GP who reassured her the condition was probably just temporary. "But back in Spain, I continued to lose my hair," she added. "I saw a dermatologist who prescribed a series of medications with the hope my hair would grow back. "I tried not to stress about it. I have a busy life as a dancer and I didn't want this to affect my performances." But a couple of weeks later, Josie noticed she was losing body and facial hair, too. "My leg hair, eyebrows, eyelashes - it was all falling out," explained Josie, who has travelled the world as a dancer, including Germany, Spain, Israel and Canada. Doctors diagnosed her with alopecia universalis, an autoimmune condition characterised by a complete loss of hair on the scalp and body. She was told her hair was unlikely to ever grow back. "My hair was long and thick, my crowning glory, so I was obviously concerned. It was devastating," Josie said. "Not much is known about the condition and there is no definitive treatment. I had to come to terms with losing my hair forever." Josie decided on a strategy to help her accept what was happening - a "ritual" to say goodbye to her hair. 'Only my appearance' She said: "After a couple of days processing the diagnosis, I calmed down and told myself that this wasn't the worst thing in the world that could happen. "I wasn't in pain and it wasn't like losing my hair was going to kill me. At the end of the day, this was only my appearance. "I booked a photo shoot so I'd have lovely photographs of myself with hair to look back on. "Then I decided to shave off what was left of my hair. It was falling out so quickly that nothing short of a miracle would save it anyway." Josie invited her friends over to share a Mexican feast and film her while she had her hair shaved off. "I even baked a cake. It was my way of saying goodbye to my hair," the dancer explained. "The evening was very emotional but also a celebration." Josie arranged to have a henna crown tattoo, adding: "Being proactive about my hair loss gave me the confidence to move forward with my life. "Instead of feeling down and sad, I felt excited about the future. "If I'm somewhere like London, people don't bat an eyelid, but here in Seville I do stand out and attract attention. I understand I look unusual and people stare - but it doesn't bother me. "All my friends have been really supportive and encourage me not to wear a wig. "But my head gets cold so I have to wear a headscarf sometimes." But what lies ahead for her career as a world class flamenco dancer? "Artistically, I haven't decided what I'll do," she said. "The world of flamenco is very traditional. A bald dancer would be really pushing the boundaries." ### Summary: A woman who lost her hair in a week has been diagnosed with alopecia universalis. ### Text: A woman who lost her hair in a week has been diagnosed with alopecia universalis. ###

uk-politics-42448314

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-42448314

MP Mark Garnier cleared of breaking ministerial code

A Conservative MP has been sacked for breaching the ministerial code.

International trade minister Mark Garnier was also said to have used derogatory language to his secretary and asked her to buy sex toys in 2010. The investigation concluded there was "no evidence" to suggest he had broken the rules. Theresa May said "a line should be drawn under the issue". The Conservative MP said he did not intend to comment on the outcome of the inquiry. The allegations regarding his secretary, Caroline Edmondson, from before he was appointed a minister in 2016, came to light in October. Ms Edmondson, who now works for another MP, told The Mail on Sunday he had given her money to buy two vibrators at a Soho sex shop and called her "sugar tits." Mr Garnier told the paper: "I'm not going to deny it, because I'm not going to be dishonest. I'm going to have to take it on the chin." The Cabinet Office investigation said there was "no dispute about the facts of the incident", but there was "a significant difference of interpretation between the parties", leaving a member of staff "distressed". A No 10 spokesman said: "It was not his intention to cause distress, and Mr Garnier has apologised unreservedly to the individual. "On that basis, the prime minister considers that a line should be drawn under the issue." Seats at cabinet table The announcement comes a day after Mrs May sacked her First Secretary of State, Damian Green, for breaching the ministerial code. He was asked by the PM to quit after making "inaccurate and misleading" statements over what he knew about claims pornography was found on his office computer in 2008. Mr Green also apologised for making writer Kate Maltby feel uncomfortable in 2015. It made him the third cabinet minister to leave the table in recent weeks, following the resignations of Sir Michael Fallon and Priti Patel.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: International trade minister Mark Garnier was also said to have used derogatory language to his secretary and asked her to buy sex toys in 2010. The investigation concluded there was "no evidence" to suggest he had broken the rules. Theresa May said "a line should be drawn under the issue". The Conservative MP said he did not intend to comment on the outcome of the inquiry. The allegations regarding his secretary, Caroline Edmondson, from before he was appointed a minister in 2016, came to light in October. Ms Edmondson, who now works for another MP, told The Mail on Sunday he had given her money to buy two vibrators at a Soho sex shop and called her "sugar tits." Mr Garnier told the paper: "I'm not going to deny it, because I'm not going to be dishonest. I'm going to have to take it on the chin." The Cabinet Office investigation said there was "no dispute about the facts of the incident", but there was "a significant difference of interpretation between the parties", leaving a member of staff "distressed". A No 10 spokesman said: "It was not his intention to cause distress, and Mr Garnier has apologised unreservedly to the individual. "On that basis, the prime minister considers that a line should be drawn under the issue." Seats at cabinet table The announcement comes a day after Mrs May sacked her First Secretary of State, Damian Green, for breaching the ministerial code. He was asked by the PM to quit after making "inaccurate and misleading" statements over what he knew about claims pornography was found on his office computer in 2008. Mr Green also apologised for making writer Kate Maltby feel uncomfortable in 2015. It made him the third cabinet minister to leave the table in recent weeks, following the resignations of Sir Michael Fallon and Priti Patel. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: International trade minister Mark Garnier was also said to have used derogatory language to his secretary and asked her to buy sex toys in 2010. The investigation concluded there was "no evidence" to suggest he had broken the rules. Theresa May said "a line should be drawn under the issue". The Conservative MP said he did not intend to comment on the outcome of the inquiry. The allegations regarding his secretary, Caroline Edmondson, from before he was appointed a minister in 2016, came to light in October. Ms Edmondson, who now works for another MP, told The Mail on Sunday he had given her money to buy two vibrators at a Soho sex shop and called her "sugar tits." Mr Garnier told the paper: "I'm not going to deny it, because I'm not going to be dishonest. I'm going to have to take it on the chin." The Cabinet Office investigation said there was "no dispute about the facts of the incident", but there was "a significant difference of interpretation between the parties", leaving a member of staff "distressed". A No 10 spokesman said: "It was not his intention to cause distress, and Mr Garnier has apologised unreservedly to the individual. "On that basis, the prime minister considers that a line should be drawn under the issue." Seats at cabinet table The announcement comes a day after Mrs May sacked her First Secretary of State, Damian Green, for breaching the ministerial code. He was asked by the PM to quit after making "inaccurate and misleading" statements over what he knew about claims pornography was found on his office computer in 2008. Mr Green also apologised for making writer Kate Maltby feel uncomfortable in 2015. It made him the third cabinet minister to leave the table in recent weeks, following the resignations of Sir Michael Fallon and Priti Patel. ### Summary: A Conservative MP has been sacked for breaching the ministerial code. ### Next steps: The prime minister has said she will not comment on the outcome of the inquiry into allegations of sexual harassment against

uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-21136175

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-21136175

Drivers warned of icy roads after heavy snowfall

Snow has fallen in parts of North Yorkshire on Monday.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of ice for the region for Tuesday. On Monday, more than 10cm (4in) of snow fell across upland parts of the county with depths reaching more than 20cm (8in) in some places. More than 50 schools were closed and there was disruption on both road and rail routes. The county council said gritting teams would work around the clock to ensure main routes were ploughed and well salted. 'Worst over' The authority and North Yorkshire Police have advised drivers take great care when driving, especially on minor, untreated routes. BBC Weather forecaster, Paul Hudson, said while more snow was expected on the North York Moors on Monday evening the snow had "fizzled" out and the "worst" was over. He added: "The emphasis now changes to widespread ice on untreated surfaces." He also warned the cold weather would continue until the weekend. The A169 road between Pickering and Whitby remains closed and several minor routes are only passable with 4x4 vehicles. East Coast trains operated with delays of up to 30 minutes on Monday but said the company hoped to operate a normal timetable between London, Scotland and York on Tuesday.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of ice for the region for Tuesday. On Monday, more than 10cm (4in) of snow fell across upland parts of the county with depths reaching more than 20cm (8in) in some places. More than 50 schools were closed and there was disruption on both road and rail routes. The county council said gritting teams would work around the clock to ensure main routes were ploughed and well salted. 'Worst over' The authority and North Yorkshire Police have advised drivers take great care when driving, especially on minor, untreated routes. BBC Weather forecaster, Paul Hudson, said while more snow was expected on the North York Moors on Monday evening the snow had "fizzled" out and the "worst" was over. He added: "The emphasis now changes to widespread ice on untreated surfaces." He also warned the cold weather would continue until the weekend. The A169 road between Pickering and Whitby remains closed and several minor routes are only passable with 4x4 vehicles. East Coast trains operated with delays of up to 30 minutes on Monday but said the company hoped to operate a normal timetable between London, Scotland and York on Tuesday. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of ice for the region for Tuesday. On Monday, more than 10cm (4in) of snow fell across upland parts of the county with depths reaching more than 20cm (8in) in some places. More than 50 schools were closed and there was disruption on both road and rail routes. The county council said gritting teams would work around the clock to ensure main routes were ploughed and well salted. 'Worst over' The authority and North Yorkshire Police have advised drivers take great care when driving, especially on minor, untreated routes. BBC Weather forecaster, Paul Hudson, said while more snow was expected on the North York Moors on Monday evening the snow had "fizzled" out and the "worst" was over. He added: "The emphasis now changes to widespread ice on untreated surfaces." He also warned the cold weather would continue until the weekend. The A169 road between Pickering and Whitby remains closed and several minor routes are only passable with 4x4 vehicles. East Coast trains operated with delays of up to 30 minutes on Monday but said the company hoped to operate a normal timetable between London, Scotland and York on Tuesday. ### Summary: Snow has fallen in parts of North Yorkshire on Monday. ### Text: The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of ice for the county. The A169 road between Pickering and Whitby remains closed and

uk-29679559

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-29679559

Treating common illnesses at pharmacies 'could save NHS £1bn'

Pharmacists in England are being asked to treat common ailments in A&E and GP practices.

A study carried out by the body concluded such a move would reduce the number of accident and emergency visits by 650,000 and GP consultations by 18m. While minor ailment centres are common in Scotland and Northern Ireland only a third of English pharmacies have them. The RPS is now calling for them to be rolled out across England. They said the clinics - which could also deal with eye problems, stomach ailments like diarrhoea, and aches and pains - could ease the pressure on an overburdened NHS as well as save money. 'Ever-increasing demand' Treatment results were the same regardless of whether patients were treated at a pharmacy, GP practice or in A&E, according to the study. RPS President Ash Soni said: "The NHS can't afford to wait any longer to create capacity in the system. We need to be more strategic and change the services on offer to the public to make best use of the NHS workforce. "Pharmacists are central to relieving the ever-increasing demand on A&E and GPs and enabling them to focus their skills on diagnosing and treating patients needing their care. "Fast, same-day access to community pharmacists will be of huge benefit to patients, doctors, nurses and the bank balance of the NHS." The RPS claims treating common conditions at A&E or in a GP practice costs the NHS an extra £1.1bn each year. 'Winter burden' The research, led by the University of Aberdeen, estimated that 3% of all A&E consultations and 5.5% of GP consultations for common illnesses could be dealt with in local pharmacies. Lead researcher Dr Margaret Watson said: "Treating these common problems places a substantial burden on A&E and GP services, especially over the winter period. "This can increase waiting times, reduce availability of care for more serious conditions and incurs much greater expenditure on treatment than necessary. "We must make the best use of NHS resources and give people the right advice in the right place, whilst making the most of the skills of NHS staff. You don't need an A&E consultation to treat a short-term cough or a simple upset stomach." Common ailment schemes operate nationally in community pharmacies in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Welsh Government is running trials of the service which will be evaluated in 2015 and aims to develop a cost-effective model for the management of common ailments for Wales. In England, approximately one-third of pharmacies operate the scheme.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: A study carried out by the body concluded such a move would reduce the number of accident and emergency visits by 650,000 and GP consultations by 18m. While minor ailment centres are common in Scotland and Northern Ireland only a third of English pharmacies have them. The RPS is now calling for them to be rolled out across England. They said the clinics - which could also deal with eye problems, stomach ailments like diarrhoea, and aches and pains - could ease the pressure on an overburdened NHS as well as save money. 'Ever-increasing demand' Treatment results were the same regardless of whether patients were treated at a pharmacy, GP practice or in A&E, according to the study. RPS President Ash Soni said: "The NHS can't afford to wait any longer to create capacity in the system. We need to be more strategic and change the services on offer to the public to make best use of the NHS workforce. "Pharmacists are central to relieving the ever-increasing demand on A&E and GPs and enabling them to focus their skills on diagnosing and treating patients needing their care. "Fast, same-day access to community pharmacists will be of huge benefit to patients, doctors, nurses and the bank balance of the NHS." The RPS claims treating common conditions at A&E or in a GP practice costs the NHS an extra £1.1bn each year. 'Winter burden' The research, led by the University of Aberdeen, estimated that 3% of all A&E consultations and 5.5% of GP consultations for common illnesses could be dealt with in local pharmacies. Lead researcher Dr Margaret Watson said: "Treating these common problems places a substantial burden on A&E and GP services, especially over the winter period. "This can increase waiting times, reduce availability of care for more serious conditions and incurs much greater expenditure on treatment than necessary. "We must make the best use of NHS resources and give people the right advice in the right place, whilst making the most of the skills of NHS staff. You don't need an A&E consultation to treat a short-term cough or a simple upset stomach." Common ailment schemes operate nationally in community pharmacies in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Welsh Government is running trials of the service which will be evaluated in 2015 and aims to develop a cost-effective model for the management of common ailments for Wales. In England, approximately one-third of pharmacies operate the scheme. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: A study carried out by the body concluded such a move would reduce the number of accident and emergency visits by 650,000 and GP consultations by 18m. While minor ailment centres are common in Scotland and Northern Ireland only a third of English pharmacies have them. The RPS is now calling for them to be rolled out across England. They said the clinics - which could also deal with eye problems, stomach ailments like diarrhoea, and aches and pains - could ease the pressure on an overburdened NHS as well as save money. 'Ever-increasing demand' Treatment results were the same regardless of whether patients were treated at a pharmacy, GP practice or in A&E, according to the study. RPS President Ash Soni said: "The NHS can't afford to wait any longer to create capacity in the system. We need to be more strategic and change the services on offer to the public to make best use of the NHS workforce. "Pharmacists are central to relieving the ever-increasing demand on A&E and GPs and enabling them to focus their skills on diagnosing and treating patients needing their care. "Fast, same-day access to community pharmacists will be of huge benefit to patients, doctors, nurses and the bank balance of the NHS." The RPS claims treating common conditions at A&E or in a GP practice costs the NHS an extra £1.1bn each year. 'Winter burden' The research, led by the University of Aberdeen, estimated that 3% of all A&E consultations and 5.5% of GP consultations for common illnesses could be dealt with in local pharmacies. Lead researcher Dr Margaret Watson said: "Treating these common problems places a substantial burden on A&E and GP services, especially over the winter period. "This can increase waiting times, reduce availability of care for more serious conditions and incurs much greater expenditure on treatment than necessary. "We must make the best use of NHS resources and give people the right advice in the right place, whilst making the most of the skills of NHS staff. You don't need an A&E consultation to treat a short-term cough or a simple upset stomach." Common ailment schemes operate nationally in community pharmacies in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Welsh Government is running trials of the service which will be evaluated in 2015 and aims to develop a cost-effective model for the management of common ailments for Wales. In England, approximately one-third of pharmacies operate the scheme. ### Summary: Pharmacists in England are being asked to treat common ailments in A&E and GP practices. ### Text: Pharmacists in England are being asked to treat common ailments in A&E and

uk-wales-politics-35753317

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-35753317

Online abuse and cyber crime bill introduced by MP

A bill to make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory, threatening and causes distress has been presented.

It aims to make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory, threatening and causes distress. Internet service providers and social media firms would be forced to remove offensive material. The 10-minute rule bill being presented on Wednesday would need UK government support but has already secured cross-party backing. It would combine measures against digital crime from about 30 different existing laws and aims to update regulations covering online surveillance, monitoring and abusive digital content. "The existing laws are fragmented and inadequate and must be made fit for purpose without delay," Ms Saville Roberts said. Business leaders have called cyber crime one of the biggest threats facing firms, after an attack on TalkTalk in 2015.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It aims to make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory, threatening and causes distress. Internet service providers and social media firms would be forced to remove offensive material. The 10-minute rule bill being presented on Wednesday would need UK government support but has already secured cross-party backing. It would combine measures against digital crime from about 30 different existing laws and aims to update regulations covering online surveillance, monitoring and abusive digital content. "The existing laws are fragmented and inadequate and must be made fit for purpose without delay," Ms Saville Roberts said. Business leaders have called cyber crime one of the biggest threats facing firms, after an attack on TalkTalk in 2015. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It aims to make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory, threatening and causes distress. Internet service providers and social media firms would be forced to remove offensive material. The 10-minute rule bill being presented on Wednesday would need UK government support but has already secured cross-party backing. It would combine measures against digital crime from about 30 different existing laws and aims to update regulations covering online surveillance, monitoring and abusive digital content. "The existing laws are fragmented and inadequate and must be made fit for purpose without delay," Ms Saville Roberts said. Business leaders have called cyber crime one of the biggest threats facing firms, after an attack on TalkTalk in 2015. ### Summary: A bill to make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory, threatening and causes distress has been presented. ### Text: The bill would make it an offence to post content that is discriminatory

science-environment-56294690

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56294690

Antarctica: Close-up view of crack that made mega-iceberg

A new iceberg has broken off from the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica.

Jonathan AmosScience correspondent@BBCAmoson Twitter A74, as the 1,290-sq-km (500-sq-mile) block is known, broke away from the Brunt Ice Shelf exactly a week ago. The new pictures from last Saturday show the widening "North Rift" a day after calving. They were acquired by the UK satellite Vision-1 for the British Antarctic Survey. BAS has its Halley Research Station on the Brunt, positioned about 23km from the rift. Also in the hands of BAS is new radar imagery captured on Thursday by the EU's Sentinel-1 spacecraft. This gives a wider view of the 150m-thick A74 pushing out into Antarctica's Weddell Sea. BAS is using all these space pictures to monitor events. The Cambridge-based agency wants to see if A74 might collide with the western part of the Brunt and initiate a second calving even closer to Halley. The base is currently unoccupied. In part, that's because of Covid; very little Antarctic science is being undertaken at present. But it's also because BAS needs to be sure the Brunt Ice Shelf - a vast floating platform of ice - will remain stable into the future. Halley would be 17km from the most likely site of a second calving. GPS sensors around Halley reported no reaction in the ice directly under the base in the days following the production of A74. BAS is confident the same would be true from a second breakaway, but the agency would obviously like the certainty that comes with the data. The Vision-1 satellite was built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd of Guildford. The Surrey company is a subsidiary of the European aerospace giant Airbus. Vision-1 can resolve details at the surface of the Earth that are less than a metre across. Where exactly is this? It is on the Brunt Ice Shelf, which is the floating protrusion of glaciers that have flowed off the land into the Weddell Sea. On a map, the Weddell Sea is that sector of Antarctica directly to the south of the Atlantic Ocean. The Brunt is on the eastern side of the sea. Like all ice shelves, it will periodically calve icebergs. Just how big is the new berg? Satellite measurement puts it at around 1,290 sq km. Greater London is roughly 1,500 sq km; the Welsh county of Monmouthshire is about 1,300 sq km. That's big by any measure, although not as large as the monster A68 berg which calved in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the western side of the Weddell Sea. That was originally some 5,800 sq km but has since shattered into many small pieces. Jonathan.Amos-INTERNET@bbc.co.uk and follow me on Twitter: @BBCAmos

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Jonathan AmosScience correspondent@BBCAmoson Twitter A74, as the 1,290-sq-km (500-sq-mile) block is known, broke away from the Brunt Ice Shelf exactly a week ago. The new pictures from last Saturday show the widening "North Rift" a day after calving. They were acquired by the UK satellite Vision-1 for the British Antarctic Survey. BAS has its Halley Research Station on the Brunt, positioned about 23km from the rift. Also in the hands of BAS is new radar imagery captured on Thursday by the EU's Sentinel-1 spacecraft. This gives a wider view of the 150m-thick A74 pushing out into Antarctica's Weddell Sea. BAS is using all these space pictures to monitor events. The Cambridge-based agency wants to see if A74 might collide with the western part of the Brunt and initiate a second calving even closer to Halley. The base is currently unoccupied. In part, that's because of Covid; very little Antarctic science is being undertaken at present. But it's also because BAS needs to be sure the Brunt Ice Shelf - a vast floating platform of ice - will remain stable into the future. Halley would be 17km from the most likely site of a second calving. GPS sensors around Halley reported no reaction in the ice directly under the base in the days following the production of A74. BAS is confident the same would be true from a second breakaway, but the agency would obviously like the certainty that comes with the data. The Vision-1 satellite was built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd of Guildford. The Surrey company is a subsidiary of the European aerospace giant Airbus. Vision-1 can resolve details at the surface of the Earth that are less than a metre across. Where exactly is this? It is on the Brunt Ice Shelf, which is the floating protrusion of glaciers that have flowed off the land into the Weddell Sea. On a map, the Weddell Sea is that sector of Antarctica directly to the south of the Atlantic Ocean. The Brunt is on the eastern side of the sea. Like all ice shelves, it will periodically calve icebergs. Just how big is the new berg? Satellite measurement puts it at around 1,290 sq km. Greater London is roughly 1,500 sq km; the Welsh county of Monmouthshire is about 1,300 sq km. That's big by any measure, although not as large as the monster A68 berg which calved in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the western side of the Weddell Sea. That was originally some 5,800 sq km but has since shattered into many small pieces. Jonathan.Amos-INTERNET@bbc.co.uk and follow me on Twitter: @BBCAmos ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Jonathan AmosScience correspondent@BBCAmoson Twitter A74, as the 1,290-sq-km (500-sq-mile) block is known, broke away from the Brunt Ice Shelf exactly a week ago. The new pictures from last Saturday show the widening "North Rift" a day after calving. They were acquired by the UK satellite Vision-1 for the British Antarctic Survey. BAS has its Halley Research Station on the Brunt, positioned about 23km from the rift. Also in the hands of BAS is new radar imagery captured on Thursday by the EU's Sentinel-1 spacecraft. This gives a wider view of the 150m-thick A74 pushing out into Antarctica's Weddell Sea. BAS is using all these space pictures to monitor events. The Cambridge-based agency wants to see if A74 might collide with the western part of the Brunt and initiate a second calving even closer to Halley. The base is currently unoccupied. In part, that's because of Covid; very little Antarctic science is being undertaken at present. But it's also because BAS needs to be sure the Brunt Ice Shelf - a vast floating platform of ice - will remain stable into the future. Halley would be 17km from the most likely site of a second calving. GPS sensors around Halley reported no reaction in the ice directly under the base in the days following the production of A74. BAS is confident the same would be true from a second breakaway, but the agency would obviously like the certainty that comes with the data. The Vision-1 satellite was built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd of Guildford. The Surrey company is a subsidiary of the European aerospace giant Airbus. Vision-1 can resolve details at the surface of the Earth that are less than a metre across. Where exactly is this? It is on the Brunt Ice Shelf, which is the floating protrusion of glaciers that have flowed off the land into the Weddell Sea. On a map, the Weddell Sea is that sector of Antarctica directly to the south of the Atlantic Ocean. The Brunt is on the eastern side of the sea. Like all ice shelves, it will periodically calve icebergs. Just how big is the new berg? Satellite measurement puts it at around 1,290 sq km. Greater London is roughly 1,500 sq km; the Welsh county of Monmouthshire is about 1,300 sq km. That's big by any measure, although not as large as the monster A68 berg which calved in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the western side of the Weddell Sea. That was originally some 5,800 sq km but has since shattered into many small pieces. Jonathan.Amos-INTERNET@bbc.co.uk and follow me on Twitter: @BBCAmos ### Summary: A new iceberg has broken off from the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica. ### Text: A new iceberg has broken off from the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica. ### Summary

uk-19571415

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19571415

Hillsborough papers: Key excerpts

A report into the Hillsborough disaster has found that the police were responsible for the deaths of 96 people.

The Hillsborough Independent Panel spent 18 months looking through more than 450,000 pages of documents relating to the fatal crush on 15 April 1989, which resulted in the deaths of 96 people. The documents included cabinet minutes as well as evidence from public bodies such as the South Yorkshire Police, Sheffield City Council, the South Yorkshire coroner and the fire and ambulance services. In its report, the panel said it uncovered new evidence detailing crowd safety deficiencies at the ground, shortcomings in the emergency services response, failures of leadership and co-ordination and widespread alteration of police statements in an attempt to blame the Liverpool fans for what happened. Below are excerpts from some of the previously unreleased papers. Statement from police officer on duty at Hillsborough PC Brian Huckstepp was on duty at the ground on the day of the disaster. His original statement criticised the way police handled the tragedy - but his comments were removed before being submitted to Lord Taylor's 1989 inquiry. A letter from the panel set up to scrutinise the evidence said it was aware officers had been put under pressure to amend their statements. The critical paragraph is reproduced below. Statements edited Statements by a number of other police officers at the scene were also edited. Some were told that alterations were made to exclude personal opinion and to leave the document as a factual report. Comments by a PC S Smith describing "a situation of almost total panic," among senior officers were among those edited. The officer's potentially infammatory comments comparing the tragedy to the Hyesel Stadium disaster and blaming the deaths of innocent people on Liverpool fans were also removed. 'No organisation' A PC Michael Walpole had included comments in his statement about the lack of organisation or radio messages to officers on the ground. These were also removed for the final draft. When asked about the deleted paragraphs in 1998, PC Walpole said he was suffering post traumatic stress and depression and agreed to the deletions. Sun story "The Truth" based on MP's account A headline story in The Sun newspaper which blamed the disaster at Hillsborough on drunken fans was based on a local news agency report of a conversation with the then MP for Sheffield Hallam Irvine Patnick and a senior police officer. The story caused outrage on Merseyside. The then editor Kelvin Mackenzie has now apologised for the story. This is part of Mr Patnick's notes of his conversation with police which was submitted to the Taylor inquiry as evidence. Letter complaining about overcrowding in 1988 This letter from a spectator at a match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at the Hillsborough ground in 1988 was sent to the Football Association and the Minister of Sport Colin Moynihan. It raises concerns about severe overcrowding - a year before the disaster. Stand capacity was too high This letter from the Acting Assistant Chief Constable of Operations at South Yorkshire Police raises concerns about the stand capacity at the Hillsborough ground. He points out that plans used to calculate a safe limit were inaccurate. Senior ambulance officer criticised access for ambulances A senior ambulance officer who attended the emergency at Hillsborough had parts of his statement amended. Criticism of the access for emergency vehicles was deleted and his request for more ambulances, because there were lots of casualties, was also crossed out.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Hillsborough Independent Panel spent 18 months looking through more than 450,000 pages of documents relating to the fatal crush on 15 April 1989, which resulted in the deaths of 96 people. The documents included cabinet minutes as well as evidence from public bodies such as the South Yorkshire Police, Sheffield City Council, the South Yorkshire coroner and the fire and ambulance services. In its report, the panel said it uncovered new evidence detailing crowd safety deficiencies at the ground, shortcomings in the emergency services response, failures of leadership and co-ordination and widespread alteration of police statements in an attempt to blame the Liverpool fans for what happened. Below are excerpts from some of the previously unreleased papers. Statement from police officer on duty at Hillsborough PC Brian Huckstepp was on duty at the ground on the day of the disaster. His original statement criticised the way police handled the tragedy - but his comments were removed before being submitted to Lord Taylor's 1989 inquiry. A letter from the panel set up to scrutinise the evidence said it was aware officers had been put under pressure to amend their statements. The critical paragraph is reproduced below. Statements edited Statements by a number of other police officers at the scene were also edited. Some were told that alterations were made to exclude personal opinion and to leave the document as a factual report. Comments by a PC S Smith describing "a situation of almost total panic," among senior officers were among those edited. The officer's potentially infammatory comments comparing the tragedy to the Hyesel Stadium disaster and blaming the deaths of innocent people on Liverpool fans were also removed. 'No organisation' A PC Michael Walpole had included comments in his statement about the lack of organisation or radio messages to officers on the ground. These were also removed for the final draft. When asked about the deleted paragraphs in 1998, PC Walpole said he was suffering post traumatic stress and depression and agreed to the deletions. Sun story "The Truth" based on MP's account A headline story in The Sun newspaper which blamed the disaster at Hillsborough on drunken fans was based on a local news agency report of a conversation with the then MP for Sheffield Hallam Irvine Patnick and a senior police officer. The story caused outrage on Merseyside. The then editor Kelvin Mackenzie has now apologised for the story. This is part of Mr Patnick's notes of his conversation with police which was submitted to the Taylor inquiry as evidence. Letter complaining about overcrowding in 1988 This letter from a spectator at a match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at the Hillsborough ground in 1988 was sent to the Football Association and the Minister of Sport Colin Moynihan. It raises concerns about severe overcrowding - a year before the disaster. Stand capacity was too high This letter from the Acting Assistant Chief Constable of Operations at South Yorkshire Police raises concerns about the stand capacity at the Hillsborough ground. He points out that plans used to calculate a safe limit were inaccurate. Senior ambulance officer criticised access for ambulances A senior ambulance officer who attended the emergency at Hillsborough had parts of his statement amended. Criticism of the access for emergency vehicles was deleted and his request for more ambulances, because there were lots of casualties, was also crossed out. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Hillsborough Independent Panel spent 18 months looking through more than 450,000 pages of documents relating to the fatal crush on 15 April 1989, which resulted in the deaths of 96 people. The documents included cabinet minutes as well as evidence from public bodies such as the South Yorkshire Police, Sheffield City Council, the South Yorkshire coroner and the fire and ambulance services. In its report, the panel said it uncovered new evidence detailing crowd safety deficiencies at the ground, shortcomings in the emergency services response, failures of leadership and co-ordination and widespread alteration of police statements in an attempt to blame the Liverpool fans for what happened. Below are excerpts from some of the previously unreleased papers. Statement from police officer on duty at Hillsborough PC Brian Huckstepp was on duty at the ground on the day of the disaster. His original statement criticised the way police handled the tragedy - but his comments were removed before being submitted to Lord Taylor's 1989 inquiry. A letter from the panel set up to scrutinise the evidence said it was aware officers had been put under pressure to amend their statements. The critical paragraph is reproduced below. Statements edited Statements by a number of other police officers at the scene were also edited. Some were told that alterations were made to exclude personal opinion and to leave the document as a factual report. Comments by a PC S Smith describing "a situation of almost total panic," among senior officers were among those edited. The officer's potentially infammatory comments comparing the tragedy to the Hyesel Stadium disaster and blaming the deaths of innocent people on Liverpool fans were also removed. 'No organisation' A PC Michael Walpole had included comments in his statement about the lack of organisation or radio messages to officers on the ground. These were also removed for the final draft. When asked about the deleted paragraphs in 1998, PC Walpole said he was suffering post traumatic stress and depression and agreed to the deletions. Sun story "The Truth" based on MP's account A headline story in The Sun newspaper which blamed the disaster at Hillsborough on drunken fans was based on a local news agency report of a conversation with the then MP for Sheffield Hallam Irvine Patnick and a senior police officer. The story caused outrage on Merseyside. The then editor Kelvin Mackenzie has now apologised for the story. This is part of Mr Patnick's notes of his conversation with police which was submitted to the Taylor inquiry as evidence. Letter complaining about overcrowding in 1988 This letter from a spectator at a match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at the Hillsborough ground in 1988 was sent to the Football Association and the Minister of Sport Colin Moynihan. It raises concerns about severe overcrowding - a year before the disaster. Stand capacity was too high This letter from the Acting Assistant Chief Constable of Operations at South Yorkshire Police raises concerns about the stand capacity at the Hillsborough ground. He points out that plans used to calculate a safe limit were inaccurate. Senior ambulance officer criticised access for ambulances A senior ambulance officer who attended the emergency at Hillsborough had parts of his statement amended. Criticism of the access for emergency vehicles was deleted and his request for more ambulances, because there were lots of casualties, was also crossed out. ### Summary: A report into the Hillsborough disaster has found that the police were responsible for the deaths of 96 people. ### Next: The Hillsborough Independent Panel has found that the police were responsible for the deaths of

uk-england-london-41942527

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-41942527

Public disorder on the Tube increases

The number of serious public order offences on the London Underground has risen by more than a third in the second quarter of 2017/18.

Serious public order offences such as pushing, shoving and arguing were 230% higher from April to July than in the same period last year. Passengers reported 535 more offences than 2016, bringing the total for the quarter to 768. TfL said it is working with police to reduce the 22% increase of all crime on the transport network. It added that the spike in serious public order offences - many of which happened in peak times - was in part due to a change in the way crimes are recorded. Siwan Hayward, head of TfL's Transport Policing, said: "London's transport network is a safe, low crime environment. "The crime rate has been halved since 2005/06, and very few of the 15 million customers who travel on our services will experience or witness a crime. "We have seen an increase in crime in the second quarter of 2017/2018, similar to other parts of the country, and are working with the police to address this." TfL added that a 44% increase in reports of sexual assault on the Overground is as a result of a campaign encouraging victims to come forward. 'Criminals' paradise' Mick Cash, general secretary of the The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), said: "These are truly shocking figures. "RMT has warned for years that cuts to staff would turn London Underground into a thugs' and criminals' paradise and our warnings have now come home to roost with a vengeance. "Rather than TfL planning for a further 1,400 job cuts in the next tranche of planned reductions, passengers need more staff acting as a deterrent."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Serious public order offences such as pushing, shoving and arguing were 230% higher from April to July than in the same period last year. Passengers reported 535 more offences than 2016, bringing the total for the quarter to 768. TfL said it is working with police to reduce the 22% increase of all crime on the transport network. It added that the spike in serious public order offences - many of which happened in peak times - was in part due to a change in the way crimes are recorded. Siwan Hayward, head of TfL's Transport Policing, said: "London's transport network is a safe, low crime environment. "The crime rate has been halved since 2005/06, and very few of the 15 million customers who travel on our services will experience or witness a crime. "We have seen an increase in crime in the second quarter of 2017/2018, similar to other parts of the country, and are working with the police to address this." TfL added that a 44% increase in reports of sexual assault on the Overground is as a result of a campaign encouraging victims to come forward. 'Criminals' paradise' Mick Cash, general secretary of the The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), said: "These are truly shocking figures. "RMT has warned for years that cuts to staff would turn London Underground into a thugs' and criminals' paradise and our warnings have now come home to roost with a vengeance. "Rather than TfL planning for a further 1,400 job cuts in the next tranche of planned reductions, passengers need more staff acting as a deterrent." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Serious public order offences such as pushing, shoving and arguing were 230% higher from April to July than in the same period last year. Passengers reported 535 more offences than 2016, bringing the total for the quarter to 768. TfL said it is working with police to reduce the 22% increase of all crime on the transport network. It added that the spike in serious public order offences - many of which happened in peak times - was in part due to a change in the way crimes are recorded. Siwan Hayward, head of TfL's Transport Policing, said: "London's transport network is a safe, low crime environment. "The crime rate has been halved since 2005/06, and very few of the 15 million customers who travel on our services will experience or witness a crime. "We have seen an increase in crime in the second quarter of 2017/2018, similar to other parts of the country, and are working with the police to address this." TfL added that a 44% increase in reports of sexual assault on the Overground is as a result of a campaign encouraging victims to come forward. 'Criminals' paradise' Mick Cash, general secretary of the The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), said: "These are truly shocking figures. "RMT has warned for years that cuts to staff would turn London Underground into a thugs' and criminals' paradise and our warnings have now come home to roost with a vengeance. "Rather than TfL planning for a further 1,400 job cuts in the next tranche of planned reductions, passengers need more staff acting as a deterrent." ### Summary: The number of serious public order offences on the London Underground has risen by more than a third in the second quarter of 2017/18. ### Source: The number of serious public order offences

newsbeat-10057810

https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-10057810

Satio phone 'misleading' in Facebook TV advert

Sony Ericsson has been accused of misleading customers about the Facebook application on the Satio.

By Iain MackenzieNewsbeat reporter The company "exaggerated" the handset's ability to access Facebook, according to the Advertising Standards Authority(ASA). A TV commercial for the Satio showed it running a Facebook application. However, one user complained to the ASA that the feature was not included with the phone and could not be installed because of software problems with early models. The ASA said: "Because the ad implied the application was either pre-loaded on the phone or would be available to download, and because this was not the case at the time the ad was broadcast, we concluded the ad was misleading." Sony Ericsson responded, saying the software problem had now been sorted and the Facebook application could now be downloaded to the Satio. Customer returns The advertising controversy isn't the first problem to hit the Satio since it launched in October 2009. Carphone Warehouse and Phones4U both temporarily withdrew it from sale because of a high number of customer returns. Writing on an internet forum at the time, one owner said: "The Satio has a failure user interface... [it] is way too unstable and lags a whole lot." Sony Ericsson later released an updated version of the Satio's operating system, which fixed the bugs. The company has been battling to turn around disappointing sales figures in recent years. In 2009 it shipped 40% fewer handsets than the year before.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Iain MackenzieNewsbeat reporter The company "exaggerated" the handset's ability to access Facebook, according to the Advertising Standards Authority(ASA). A TV commercial for the Satio showed it running a Facebook application. However, one user complained to the ASA that the feature was not included with the phone and could not be installed because of software problems with early models. The ASA said: "Because the ad implied the application was either pre-loaded on the phone or would be available to download, and because this was not the case at the time the ad was broadcast, we concluded the ad was misleading." Sony Ericsson responded, saying the software problem had now been sorted and the Facebook application could now be downloaded to the Satio. Customer returns The advertising controversy isn't the first problem to hit the Satio since it launched in October 2009. Carphone Warehouse and Phones4U both temporarily withdrew it from sale because of a high number of customer returns. Writing on an internet forum at the time, one owner said: "The Satio has a failure user interface... [it] is way too unstable and lags a whole lot." Sony Ericsson later released an updated version of the Satio's operating system, which fixed the bugs. The company has been battling to turn around disappointing sales figures in recent years. In 2009 it shipped 40% fewer handsets than the year before. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Iain MackenzieNewsbeat reporter The company "exaggerated" the handset's ability to access Facebook, according to the Advertising Standards Authority(ASA). A TV commercial for the Satio showed it running a Facebook application. However, one user complained to the ASA that the feature was not included with the phone and could not be installed because of software problems with early models. The ASA said: "Because the ad implied the application was either pre-loaded on the phone or would be available to download, and because this was not the case at the time the ad was broadcast, we concluded the ad was misleading." Sony Ericsson responded, saying the software problem had now been sorted and the Facebook application could now be downloaded to the Satio. Customer returns The advertising controversy isn't the first problem to hit the Satio since it launched in October 2009. Carphone Warehouse and Phones4U both temporarily withdrew it from sale because of a high number of customer returns. Writing on an internet forum at the time, one owner said: "The Satio has a failure user interface... [it] is way too unstable and lags a whole lot." Sony Ericsson later released an updated version of the Satio's operating system, which fixed the bugs. The company has been battling to turn around disappointing sales figures in recent years. In 2009 it shipped 40% fewer handsets than the year before. ### Summary: Sony Ericsson has been accused of misleading customers about the Facebook application on the Satio. ### Source: The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has ruled that Sony Ericsson has misled customers about the

uk-scotland-glasgow-west-44844039

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-44844039

President Trump paraglider protest accused is freed

A man who flew a light aircraft over a golf course in Edinburgh has been released on bail.

The Crown Office said the 55-year-old was released pending further enquiries and did not appear in court. The aircraft, trailing a protest banner, was flown over the South Ayrshire property on Friday evening despite a high police presence. President Trump was at Turnberry during the private leg of his UK visit. He was on the front steps of the hotel as the light aircraft approached and was ushered inside by armed police officers. The aircraft held a banner reading: "Trump: well below par #resist". Protest organiser Greenpeace has said it gave police a 10 to 15 minutes warning. But Police Scotland said the man flying the glider had put himself "in grave danger" by breaching the air exclusion zone around the golf course. President Trump was heckled by protesters as he played golf on Saturday afternoon after they gathered around the perimeter of the resort. In Edinburgh, thousands of people marched through the city in a demonstration against President Trump's controversial four-day trip to the UK. The presidential motorcade left the golfing resort on Sunday afternoon, heading towards Prestwick Airport. On the runway, President Trump - who bought the Turnberry in 2014 - boarded Air Force One with his wife. He has since met Russian president Vladimir Putin in Helsinki.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Crown Office said the 55-year-old was released pending further enquiries and did not appear in court. The aircraft, trailing a protest banner, was flown over the South Ayrshire property on Friday evening despite a high police presence. President Trump was at Turnberry during the private leg of his UK visit. He was on the front steps of the hotel as the light aircraft approached and was ushered inside by armed police officers. The aircraft held a banner reading: "Trump: well below par #resist". Protest organiser Greenpeace has said it gave police a 10 to 15 minutes warning. But Police Scotland said the man flying the glider had put himself "in grave danger" by breaching the air exclusion zone around the golf course. President Trump was heckled by protesters as he played golf on Saturday afternoon after they gathered around the perimeter of the resort. In Edinburgh, thousands of people marched through the city in a demonstration against President Trump's controversial four-day trip to the UK. The presidential motorcade left the golfing resort on Sunday afternoon, heading towards Prestwick Airport. On the runway, President Trump - who bought the Turnberry in 2014 - boarded Air Force One with his wife. He has since met Russian president Vladimir Putin in Helsinki. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Crown Office said the 55-year-old was released pending further enquiries and did not appear in court. The aircraft, trailing a protest banner, was flown over the South Ayrshire property on Friday evening despite a high police presence. President Trump was at Turnberry during the private leg of his UK visit. He was on the front steps of the hotel as the light aircraft approached and was ushered inside by armed police officers. The aircraft held a banner reading: "Trump: well below par #resist". Protest organiser Greenpeace has said it gave police a 10 to 15 minutes warning. But Police Scotland said the man flying the glider had put himself "in grave danger" by breaching the air exclusion zone around the golf course. President Trump was heckled by protesters as he played golf on Saturday afternoon after they gathered around the perimeter of the resort. In Edinburgh, thousands of people marched through the city in a demonstration against President Trump's controversial four-day trip to the UK. The presidential motorcade left the golfing resort on Sunday afternoon, heading towards Prestwick Airport. On the runway, President Trump - who bought the Turnberry in 2014 - boarded Air Force One with his wife. He has since met Russian president Vladimir Putin in Helsinki. ### Summary: A man who flew a light aircraft over a golf course in Edinburgh has been released on bail. ### Text: A man who flew a light aircraft over a golf course in Edinburgh has been released on bail.

world-53156096

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-53156096

Will the 'War on Terror' ever end?

The "War on Terror" is over in the United States, according to a new report.

By Frank GardnerBBC security correspondent Nearly 19 years on from the day America was attacked on 11 September 2001 thousands of US servicemen and women remain stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Gulf and the Horn of Africa. Drone strikes in remote regions of the world continue to target suspected terrorist leaders; counter-terrorism budgets across the world have ballooned to astronomical proportions to meet a myriad of ongoing threats. Sasha Havliclek, the CEO of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, has been following this war since its inception. She maintains there is a distinction between the rhetoric and the reality: "The rhetoric was done away with the minute President [Barack] Obama came into office [in 2009] but in reality there was much more continuity than rupture in the tactics of the war on terror. Under the Obama administration it's well known that they massively scaled up droning attacks, for instance, in Afghanistan and Pakistan. And for all the talk of America First now.. and I think there is a wide perception that this is winding down... we've actually seen a continued expansion of US counter-terrorism operations." 'A determined group of enemies' That's a view largely endorsed by the man appointed by President Donald Trump as the US State Department's co-ordinator for counter-terrorism, Ambassador Nathan Sales. I asked him whether this war - as originally conceived by the Bush administration - is over? "No, the fight is very much ongoing, we're winning the fight but we're continuing to fight against a determined enemy or I should say a determined group of enemies." He points to the example of Islamic State (IS) where a vast, multi-national coalition successfully eliminated the last of the jihadists' physical caliphate at Baghuz in Syria last year, as well as its leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. Yet IS affiliates and networks, he concedes, are still very active around the world. On Wednesday, the State Department releases its annual Country Terrorism Reports. To some in Washington, it must have all seemed so clear-cut in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the US. Announcing the start of the "War on Terror" back then, President Bush declared that you were "either with us or against us". There was no middle ground, no allowance made for the subtle nuances of the Middle East with its ever-shifting alliances and allegiances. In Iraq, which the US and Britain invaded in 2003, this uncompromising position turned potential allies into enemies, laying the foundations for today's ongoing global jihadist movement. Mina Al-Orabi is the Editor of the UAE newspaper The National. She is originally from Mosul, Iraq's second city, which was devastated during the battle to dislodge IS from its streets. "'In Iraq," she says, "there were clear instances where the United States undercut the Iraqi state. Of course in 2003 the decision to dismantle the police and the military, the decision to put tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of young men out of work… with the idea that they should be completely excluded from the country, that became the nucleus for al-Qaeda in Iraq and then the nucleus of IS." 'Far from over' Other policy mistakes have also been made as a part of this war that, although later reversed by President Obama, continue to have consequences today. The detention of hundreds of suspects without trial in Guantanamo Bay, the practice of "extraordinary rendition" - blindfolding terror suspects and flying them across the world to CIA "black sites" where they were subjected to prolonged and "enhanced interrogation". These have all been used by critics of the West to undermine its moral authority. Ambassador Sales from the US state department says that "the world has learned a lot of lessons about what works and what doesn't and we've incorporated those lessons into our current approaches". He is particularly irked by those critics of Guantanamo Bay, including Washington's Western partners, who have now abandoned their citizens in desolate camps strung out across Syria and Iraq. He says these countries should take them back. It is impossible to pin down exactly how much the "War on Terror" has cost but most estimates put it well in excess of US $1 trillion. The vast bulk of that has been spent on "kinetic" military action, as well as intelligence-gathering and drone strikes. Only a tiny fraction has gone towards prevention - steering people away from the path of extremism. Shiraz Maher from Kings College London's International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation believes this war has helped spawn many of today's other problems in society. "If you look at things like the wider Islamic State and Syria and Iraq or these types of thing," he says, "then that fuelled a degree of xenophobia in Europe, that fuelled a degree of suspicion and hostility towards Muslims, which translated into animosity towards refugees and the refugee crisis that was a result of Syria. So you can see a cascading series of consequences. So I think it's fair to say that the 'War on Terror' is far from over in many senses." So will there ever be an end to this amorphous campaign? Will there be a decisive "Mission Accomplished" moment that brings the so-called War on Terror to a close? It is unlikely. Because, like crime, terrorism can only be reduced to what officials call "manageable levels". And today there is already a newly emerging threat, that of far-right extremism, something that will likely breathe new life into what appears to be a War without End.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Frank GardnerBBC security correspondent Nearly 19 years on from the day America was attacked on 11 September 2001 thousands of US servicemen and women remain stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Gulf and the Horn of Africa. Drone strikes in remote regions of the world continue to target suspected terrorist leaders; counter-terrorism budgets across the world have ballooned to astronomical proportions to meet a myriad of ongoing threats. Sasha Havliclek, the CEO of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, has been following this war since its inception. She maintains there is a distinction between the rhetoric and the reality: "The rhetoric was done away with the minute President [Barack] Obama came into office [in 2009] but in reality there was much more continuity than rupture in the tactics of the war on terror. Under the Obama administration it's well known that they massively scaled up droning attacks, for instance, in Afghanistan and Pakistan. And for all the talk of America First now.. and I think there is a wide perception that this is winding down... we've actually seen a continued expansion of US counter-terrorism operations." 'A determined group of enemies' That's a view largely endorsed by the man appointed by President Donald Trump as the US State Department's co-ordinator for counter-terrorism, Ambassador Nathan Sales. I asked him whether this war - as originally conceived by the Bush administration - is over? "No, the fight is very much ongoing, we're winning the fight but we're continuing to fight against a determined enemy or I should say a determined group of enemies." He points to the example of Islamic State (IS) where a vast, multi-national coalition successfully eliminated the last of the jihadists' physical caliphate at Baghuz in Syria last year, as well as its leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. Yet IS affiliates and networks, he concedes, are still very active around the world. On Wednesday, the State Department releases its annual Country Terrorism Reports. To some in Washington, it must have all seemed so clear-cut in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the US. Announcing the start of the "War on Terror" back then, President Bush declared that you were "either with us or against us". There was no middle ground, no allowance made for the subtle nuances of the Middle East with its ever-shifting alliances and allegiances. In Iraq, which the US and Britain invaded in 2003, this uncompromising position turned potential allies into enemies, laying the foundations for today's ongoing global jihadist movement. Mina Al-Orabi is the Editor of the UAE newspaper The National. She is originally from Mosul, Iraq's second city, which was devastated during the battle to dislodge IS from its streets. "'In Iraq," she says, "there were clear instances where the United States undercut the Iraqi state. Of course in 2003 the decision to dismantle the police and the military, the decision to put tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of young men out of work… with the idea that they should be completely excluded from the country, that became the nucleus for al-Qaeda in Iraq and then the nucleus of IS." 'Far from over' Other policy mistakes have also been made as a part of this war that, although later reversed by President Obama, continue to have consequences today. The detention of hundreds of suspects without trial in Guantanamo Bay, the practice of "extraordinary rendition" - blindfolding terror suspects and flying them across the world to CIA "black sites" where they were subjected to prolonged and "enhanced interrogation". These have all been used by critics of the West to undermine its moral authority. Ambassador Sales from the US state department says that "the world has learned a lot of lessons about what works and what doesn't and we've incorporated those lessons into our current approaches". He is particularly irked by those critics of Guantanamo Bay, including Washington's Western partners, who have now abandoned their citizens in desolate camps strung out across Syria and Iraq. He says these countries should take them back. It is impossible to pin down exactly how much the "War on Terror" has cost but most estimates put it well in excess of US $1 trillion. The vast bulk of that has been spent on "kinetic" military action, as well as intelligence-gathering and drone strikes. Only a tiny fraction has gone towards prevention - steering people away from the path of extremism. Shiraz Maher from Kings College London's International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation believes this war has helped spawn many of today's other problems in society. "If you look at things like the wider Islamic State and Syria and Iraq or these types of thing," he says, "then that fuelled a degree of xenophobia in Europe, that fuelled a degree of suspicion and hostility towards Muslims, which translated into animosity towards refugees and the refugee crisis that was a result of Syria. So you can see a cascading series of consequences. So I think it's fair to say that the 'War on Terror' is far from over in ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Frank GardnerBBC security correspondent Nearly 19 years on from the day America was attacked on 11 September 2001 thousands of US servicemen and women remain stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Gulf and the Horn of Africa. Drone strikes in remote regions of the world continue to target suspected terrorist leaders; counter-terrorism budgets across the world have ballooned to astronomical proportions to meet a myriad of ongoing threats. Sasha Havliclek, the CEO of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, has been following this war since its inception. She maintains there is a distinction between the rhetoric and the reality: "The rhetoric was done away with the minute President [Barack] Obama came into office [in 2009] but in reality there was much more continuity than rupture in the tactics of the war on terror. Under the Obama administration it's well known that they massively scaled up droning attacks, for instance, in Afghanistan and Pakistan. And for all the talk of America First now.. and I think there is a wide perception that this is winding down... we've actually seen a continued expansion of US counter-terrorism operations." 'A determined group of enemies' That's a view largely endorsed by the man appointed by President Donald Trump as the US State Department's co-ordinator for counter-terrorism, Ambassador Nathan Sales. I asked him whether this war - as originally conceived by the Bush administration - is over? "No, the fight is very much ongoing, we're winning the fight but we're continuing to fight against a determined enemy or I should say a determined group of enemies." He points to the example of Islamic State (IS) where a vast, multi-national coalition successfully eliminated the last of the jihadists' physical caliphate at Baghuz in Syria last year, as well as its leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. Yet IS affiliates and networks, he concedes, are still very active around the world. On Wednesday, the State Department releases its annual Country Terrorism Reports. To some in Washington, it must have all seemed so clear-cut in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the US. Announcing the start of the "War on Terror" back then, President Bush declared that you were "either with us or against us". There was no middle ground, no allowance made for the subtle nuances of the Middle East with its ever-shifting alliances and allegiances. In Iraq, which the US and Britain invaded in 2003, this uncompromising position turned potential allies into enemies, laying the foundations for today's ongoing global jihadist movement. Mina Al-Orabi is the Editor of the UAE newspaper The National. She is originally from Mosul, Iraq's second city, which was devastated during the battle to dislodge IS from its streets. "'In Iraq," she says, "there were clear instances where the United States undercut the Iraqi state. Of course in 2003 the decision to dismantle the police and the military, the decision to put tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of young men out of work… with the idea that they should be completely excluded from the country, that became the nucleus for al-Qaeda in Iraq and then the nucleus of IS." 'Far from over' Other policy mistakes have also been made as a part of this war that, although later reversed by President Obama, continue to have consequences today. The detention of hundreds of suspects without trial in Guantanamo Bay, the practice of "extraordinary rendition" - blindfolding terror suspects and flying them across the world to CIA "black sites" where they were subjected to prolonged and "enhanced interrogation". These have all been used by critics of the West to undermine its moral authority. Ambassador Sales from the US state department says that "the world has learned a lot of lessons about what works and what doesn't and we've incorporated those lessons into our current approaches". He is particularly irked by those critics of Guantanamo Bay, including Washington's Western partners, who have now abandoned their citizens in desolate camps strung out across Syria and Iraq. He says these countries should take them back. It is impossible to pin down exactly how much the "War on Terror" has cost but most estimates put it well in excess of US $1 trillion. The vast bulk of that has been spent on "kinetic" military action, as well as intelligence-gathering and drone strikes. Only a tiny fraction has gone towards prevention - steering people away from the path of extremism. Shiraz Maher from Kings College London's International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation believes this war has helped spawn many of today's other problems in society. "If you look at things like the wider Islamic State and Syria and Iraq or these types of thing," he says, "then that fuelled a degree of xenophobia in Europe, that fuelled a degree of suspicion and hostility towards Muslims, which translated into animosity towards refugees and the refugee crisis that was a result of Syria. So you can see a cascading series of consequences. So I think it's fair to say that the 'War on Terror' is far from over in ### Summary: The "War on Terror" is over in the United States, according to a new report. ### Source: The State Department has released its annual Country Terrorism Reports. ### Credit:

world-africa-33097769

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-33097769

Uganda's ethics minister attacks 'lunchtime sex'

Ugandans are wondering if the minister of family affairs, Father Simon Lokodo, would be the best use of police time.

By Catherine ByaruhangaBBC Uganda reporter Most Ugandans discussing this are wondering if such a clampdown would be the best use of police time. Harriet Nabudere, for example, says on Twitter that the minister, Father Simon Lokodo, "should deal with glaring immoralities, like graft, corruption, unlawful detention, defilement in schools etc". Lunchtime sex in Uganda is often talked about as a joke. People laugh about how small guesthouses are the place to go for extramarital affairs. But I should be clear: Not all Ugandans are getting up to this. The best example of how it works was described to me by a woman's rights activist, who used it as an example of the country's double standards. She went to a hotel for lunch. When she arrived at the car park, it was packed and an attendant offered to hide her number plate. This surprised her and she said "No". Once in the restaurant, she found it empty and she asked her friend where everyone was. The reply: "Don't you know what's happening? They're all in the rooms." Father Simon has built up a reputation for making controversial comments, and it has got to the point where some Ugandans have stopped listening to him. He has previously said that he takes free condoms out of hotel toilets because they encourage promiscuity. The condoms are part of a campaign which aims to reduce the number of new HIV infections in the country, where 7.4% of the people are HIV-positive. A social media campaign began when he appeared to suggest in 2013 that mini-skirts should be banned. He has also talked about banning some NGOs that he accused of promoting homosexuality. The minister defends himself by saying he does talk about other issues like corruption but no-one focuses on those because they do not grab the headlines. And he believes safeguarding what he sees as family values is fundamental for Uganda's future. For all the jokes, as a cabinet minister he has the ability to push for legislation that could affect people's lives. He championed the anti-pornography act, for example, which aims to stop public indecency, and he has led televised police raids against dancers performing in music videos and clubs, saying they are too erotic. Several people have been arrested and Ugandan singer Panadol wa Basajja is facing 10 years in jail.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Catherine ByaruhangaBBC Uganda reporter Most Ugandans discussing this are wondering if such a clampdown would be the best use of police time. Harriet Nabudere, for example, says on Twitter that the minister, Father Simon Lokodo, "should deal with glaring immoralities, like graft, corruption, unlawful detention, defilement in schools etc". Lunchtime sex in Uganda is often talked about as a joke. People laugh about how small guesthouses are the place to go for extramarital affairs. But I should be clear: Not all Ugandans are getting up to this. The best example of how it works was described to me by a woman's rights activist, who used it as an example of the country's double standards. She went to a hotel for lunch. When she arrived at the car park, it was packed and an attendant offered to hide her number plate. This surprised her and she said "No". Once in the restaurant, she found it empty and she asked her friend where everyone was. The reply: "Don't you know what's happening? They're all in the rooms." Father Simon has built up a reputation for making controversial comments, and it has got to the point where some Ugandans have stopped listening to him. He has previously said that he takes free condoms out of hotel toilets because they encourage promiscuity. The condoms are part of a campaign which aims to reduce the number of new HIV infections in the country, where 7.4% of the people are HIV-positive. A social media campaign began when he appeared to suggest in 2013 that mini-skirts should be banned. He has also talked about banning some NGOs that he accused of promoting homosexuality. The minister defends himself by saying he does talk about other issues like corruption but no-one focuses on those because they do not grab the headlines. And he believes safeguarding what he sees as family values is fundamental for Uganda's future. For all the jokes, as a cabinet minister he has the ability to push for legislation that could affect people's lives. He championed the anti-pornography act, for example, which aims to stop public indecency, and he has led televised police raids against dancers performing in music videos and clubs, saying they are too erotic. Several people have been arrested and Ugandan singer Panadol wa Basajja is facing 10 years in jail. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Catherine ByaruhangaBBC Uganda reporter Most Ugandans discussing this are wondering if such a clampdown would be the best use of police time. Harriet Nabudere, for example, says on Twitter that the minister, Father Simon Lokodo, "should deal with glaring immoralities, like graft, corruption, unlawful detention, defilement in schools etc". Lunchtime sex in Uganda is often talked about as a joke. People laugh about how small guesthouses are the place to go for extramarital affairs. But I should be clear: Not all Ugandans are getting up to this. The best example of how it works was described to me by a woman's rights activist, who used it as an example of the country's double standards. She went to a hotel for lunch. When she arrived at the car park, it was packed and an attendant offered to hide her number plate. This surprised her and she said "No". Once in the restaurant, she found it empty and she asked her friend where everyone was. The reply: "Don't you know what's happening? They're all in the rooms." Father Simon has built up a reputation for making controversial comments, and it has got to the point where some Ugandans have stopped listening to him. He has previously said that he takes free condoms out of hotel toilets because they encourage promiscuity. The condoms are part of a campaign which aims to reduce the number of new HIV infections in the country, where 7.4% of the people are HIV-positive. A social media campaign began when he appeared to suggest in 2013 that mini-skirts should be banned. He has also talked about banning some NGOs that he accused of promoting homosexuality. The minister defends himself by saying he does talk about other issues like corruption but no-one focuses on those because they do not grab the headlines. And he believes safeguarding what he sees as family values is fundamental for Uganda's future. For all the jokes, as a cabinet minister he has the ability to push for legislation that could affect people's lives. He championed the anti-pornography act, for example, which aims to stop public indecency, and he has led televised police raids against dancers performing in music videos and clubs, saying they are too erotic. Several people have been arrested and Ugandan singer Panadol wa Basajja is facing 10 years in jail. ### Summary: Ugandans are wondering if the minister of family affairs, Father Simon Lokodo, would be the best use of police time. ### Source: By Catherine ByaruhangaBBC Uganda reporter ###

world-us-canada-46189391

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-46189391

FBI: Spike in US hate crimes for third year in a row

The number of hate crimes reported in the US has increased by more than 1,000 in 2017, according to the FBI.

Law enforcement agencies reported 7,175 hate crimes last year compared with 6,121 in 2016. The rise in hate crimes is attributed to an increase of about 1,000 police departments that are now choosing to report these incidents, the FBI says. The report found the surge especially affected black and Jewish Americans. Of the reported attacks in 2017, 2,013 were aimed at African Americans and 938 were against Jewish Americans. Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker called the report a "call to action" and condemned the offences as "despicable violations of our core values as Americans". What did the report find? According to the report, 59.6% of incidents were motivated by bias against race, ethnicity or ancestry. Crimes motivated by a victim's religion constituted 20.6% of attacks, and crimes against a person's sexual orientation made up 15.8%. The FBI definition of a hate crime is a "criminal offence against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity". More on US hate crimes The 2017 data notes that about 5,000 of the crimes were directed against people through intimidation or assault. Around 3,000 were targeted at property, which includes vandalism or burglary. Crimes against Sikhs, Hindus and Arabs were not counted prior to 2015. Crimes against Jewish Americans saw a notable increase of 37% over 2016. Jews have long been the highest targeted religion, as the acting attorney general noted in his statement. The new report comes a month after 11 Jews were killed by a gunman that burst into their synagogue in Pittsburgh as they prayed, marking the deadliest attack against Jews in US history. The suspect was charged with dozens of federal hate crimes. Crimes against African Americans constituted 2,013 crimes, marking a 16% increase over the previous year. Muslim individuals were the target of 18.7% of religiously motivated hate crimes, which was a drop of 6% from 2016. What is the reaction? Civil rights advocates say the numbers are vastly under-reported because of individual victims that choose not to come forward, and some police agencies that do not keep accurate statistics or do not contribute them to the study. Jonathan Greenblatt of the Jewish Anti-Defamation League, said the report "provides further evidence that more must be done to address the divisive climate of hate in America. "That begins with leaders from all walks of life and from all sectors of society forcefully condemning anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate whenever it occurs." Civil rights organisation the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) said the findings were "shocking" and "requires Congress's full attention". The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a Muslim civil liberties organisation, expressed alarm at the "increase of bigotry and hate". "This is the third year where we witness an increase in reported incidents of hate targeted at our most vulnerable populations. Between 2016 and 2017, CAIR-Chicago has received a 50% increase in reported incidents of discrimination," said Deputy Director Sufyan Sohel in a statement. "We can do better. We must do better." In his statement, Mr Whitaker said: "The Department of Justice's top priority is to reduce violent crime in America, and hate crimes are violent crimes." "The American people can be assured that this department has already taken significant and aggressive actions against these crimes and that we will vigorously and effectively defend their rights," he continued.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Law enforcement agencies reported 7,175 hate crimes last year compared with 6,121 in 2016. The rise in hate crimes is attributed to an increase of about 1,000 police departments that are now choosing to report these incidents, the FBI says. The report found the surge especially affected black and Jewish Americans. Of the reported attacks in 2017, 2,013 were aimed at African Americans and 938 were against Jewish Americans. Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker called the report a "call to action" and condemned the offences as "despicable violations of our core values as Americans". What did the report find? According to the report, 59.6% of incidents were motivated by bias against race, ethnicity or ancestry. Crimes motivated by a victim's religion constituted 20.6% of attacks, and crimes against a person's sexual orientation made up 15.8%. The FBI definition of a hate crime is a "criminal offence against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity". More on US hate crimes The 2017 data notes that about 5,000 of the crimes were directed against people through intimidation or assault. Around 3,000 were targeted at property, which includes vandalism or burglary. Crimes against Sikhs, Hindus and Arabs were not counted prior to 2015. Crimes against Jewish Americans saw a notable increase of 37% over 2016. Jews have long been the highest targeted religion, as the acting attorney general noted in his statement. The new report comes a month after 11 Jews were killed by a gunman that burst into their synagogue in Pittsburgh as they prayed, marking the deadliest attack against Jews in US history. The suspect was charged with dozens of federal hate crimes. Crimes against African Americans constituted 2,013 crimes, marking a 16% increase over the previous year. Muslim individuals were the target of 18.7% of religiously motivated hate crimes, which was a drop of 6% from 2016. What is the reaction? Civil rights advocates say the numbers are vastly under-reported because of individual victims that choose not to come forward, and some police agencies that do not keep accurate statistics or do not contribute them to the study. Jonathan Greenblatt of the Jewish Anti-Defamation League, said the report "provides further evidence that more must be done to address the divisive climate of hate in America. "That begins with leaders from all walks of life and from all sectors of society forcefully condemning anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate whenever it occurs." Civil rights organisation the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) said the findings were "shocking" and "requires Congress's full attention". The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a Muslim civil liberties organisation, expressed alarm at the "increase of bigotry and hate". "This is the third year where we witness an increase in reported incidents of hate targeted at our most vulnerable populations. Between 2016 and 2017, CAIR-Chicago has received a 50% increase in reported incidents of discrimination," said Deputy Director Sufyan Sohel in a statement. "We can do better. We must do better." In his statement, Mr Whitaker said: "The Department of Justice's top priority is to reduce violent crime in America, and hate crimes are violent crimes." "The American people can be assured that this department has already taken significant and aggressive actions against these crimes and that we will vigorously and effectively defend their rights," he continued. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Law enforcement agencies reported 7,175 hate crimes last year compared with 6,121 in 2016. The rise in hate crimes is attributed to an increase of about 1,000 police departments that are now choosing to report these incidents, the FBI says. The report found the surge especially affected black and Jewish Americans. Of the reported attacks in 2017, 2,013 were aimed at African Americans and 938 were against Jewish Americans. Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker called the report a "call to action" and condemned the offences as "despicable violations of our core values as Americans". What did the report find? According to the report, 59.6% of incidents were motivated by bias against race, ethnicity or ancestry. Crimes motivated by a victim's religion constituted 20.6% of attacks, and crimes against a person's sexual orientation made up 15.8%. The FBI definition of a hate crime is a "criminal offence against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an offender's bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity". More on US hate crimes The 2017 data notes that about 5,000 of the crimes were directed against people through intimidation or assault. Around 3,000 were targeted at property, which includes vandalism or burglary. Crimes against Sikhs, Hindus and Arabs were not counted prior to 2015. Crimes against Jewish Americans saw a notable increase of 37% over 2016. Jews have long been the highest targeted religion, as the acting attorney general noted in his statement. The new report comes a month after 11 Jews were killed by a gunman that burst into their synagogue in Pittsburgh as they prayed, marking the deadliest attack against Jews in US history. The suspect was charged with dozens of federal hate crimes. Crimes against African Americans constituted 2,013 crimes, marking a 16% increase over the previous year. Muslim individuals were the target of 18.7% of religiously motivated hate crimes, which was a drop of 6% from 2016. What is the reaction? Civil rights advocates say the numbers are vastly under-reported because of individual victims that choose not to come forward, and some police agencies that do not keep accurate statistics or do not contribute them to the study. Jonathan Greenblatt of the Jewish Anti-Defamation League, said the report "provides further evidence that more must be done to address the divisive climate of hate in America. "That begins with leaders from all walks of life and from all sectors of society forcefully condemning anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate whenever it occurs." Civil rights organisation the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) said the findings were "shocking" and "requires Congress's full attention". The Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a Muslim civil liberties organisation, expressed alarm at the "increase of bigotry and hate". "This is the third year where we witness an increase in reported incidents of hate targeted at our most vulnerable populations. Between 2016 and 2017, CAIR-Chicago has received a 50% increase in reported incidents of discrimination," said Deputy Director Sufyan Sohel in a statement. "We can do better. We must do better." In his statement, Mr Whitaker said: "The Department of Justice's top priority is to reduce violent crime in America, and hate crimes are violent crimes." "The American people can be assured that this department has already taken significant and aggressive actions against these crimes and that we will vigorously and effectively defend their rights," he continued. ### Summary: The number of hate crimes reported in the US has increased by more than 1,000 in 2017, according to the FBI. ### Text: The number of hate crimes reported in the

education-49250604

https://www.bbc.com/news/education-49250604

'Don't break yourself over a letter on a piece of paper'

A-levels are not the end of the world.

It's been a year since I nervously walked into school to receive my A-level results. I was neither ecstatic nor disappointed. I didn't quite get what I had hoped for but I was just glad I had passed and somehow got through all the stress without tearing my hair out. One thing I wish I had done that day was to be proud of myself regardless of my grades. It was a shame I couldn't recognise my achievement. 'Things work out' A year later, I look back differently at my time doing A-levels. A-levels are undoubtedly an important, useful and well recognised qualification that can help launch you into the next chapter of your life - be it university or employment. But at the same time, an individual's mental health and wellbeing is even more important. I can't stress that enough. No-one should break themselves over something that is essentially a letter on a piece of paper. And my A-level certificates are probably collecting dust - I haven't even picked them up from my school yet. It may not seem like it at the time - but if results day doesn't go to plan, it's not the end of the world. You might be screaming: "Yes it is!" at your screen right now. But things do have a way of working themselves out. One year later, I'm not doing too badly. In fact, I didn't need A-level grades for this BBC apprenticeship. The recruiters were looking for a candidate with five GCSEs and some potential. So, although this is probably not what you want to hear when you have your heart set on one particular option, there may be other options you have not even considered. For what it's worth, here are my top pieces of advice for the big day. Tips for the day And finally, please do not be the annoying kid who goes around asking what grades people got - because your invite to the future school reunion may accidentally on purpose get lost in the post.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It's been a year since I nervously walked into school to receive my A-level results. I was neither ecstatic nor disappointed. I didn't quite get what I had hoped for but I was just glad I had passed and somehow got through all the stress without tearing my hair out. One thing I wish I had done that day was to be proud of myself regardless of my grades. It was a shame I couldn't recognise my achievement. 'Things work out' A year later, I look back differently at my time doing A-levels. A-levels are undoubtedly an important, useful and well recognised qualification that can help launch you into the next chapter of your life - be it university or employment. But at the same time, an individual's mental health and wellbeing is even more important. I can't stress that enough. No-one should break themselves over something that is essentially a letter on a piece of paper. And my A-level certificates are probably collecting dust - I haven't even picked them up from my school yet. It may not seem like it at the time - but if results day doesn't go to plan, it's not the end of the world. You might be screaming: "Yes it is!" at your screen right now. But things do have a way of working themselves out. One year later, I'm not doing too badly. In fact, I didn't need A-level grades for this BBC apprenticeship. The recruiters were looking for a candidate with five GCSEs and some potential. So, although this is probably not what you want to hear when you have your heart set on one particular option, there may be other options you have not even considered. For what it's worth, here are my top pieces of advice for the big day. Tips for the day And finally, please do not be the annoying kid who goes around asking what grades people got - because your invite to the future school reunion may accidentally on purpose get lost in the post. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It's been a year since I nervously walked into school to receive my A-level results. I was neither ecstatic nor disappointed. I didn't quite get what I had hoped for but I was just glad I had passed and somehow got through all the stress without tearing my hair out. One thing I wish I had done that day was to be proud of myself regardless of my grades. It was a shame I couldn't recognise my achievement. 'Things work out' A year later, I look back differently at my time doing A-levels. A-levels are undoubtedly an important, useful and well recognised qualification that can help launch you into the next chapter of your life - be it university or employment. But at the same time, an individual's mental health and wellbeing is even more important. I can't stress that enough. No-one should break themselves over something that is essentially a letter on a piece of paper. And my A-level certificates are probably collecting dust - I haven't even picked them up from my school yet. It may not seem like it at the time - but if results day doesn't go to plan, it's not the end of the world. You might be screaming: "Yes it is!" at your screen right now. But things do have a way of working themselves out. One year later, I'm not doing too badly. In fact, I didn't need A-level grades for this BBC apprenticeship. The recruiters were looking for a candidate with five GCSEs and some potential. So, although this is probably not what you want to hear when you have your heart set on one particular option, there may be other options you have not even considered. For what it's worth, here are my top pieces of advice for the big day. Tips for the day And finally, please do not be the annoying kid who goes around asking what grades people got - because your invite to the future school reunion may accidentally on purpose get lost in the post. ### Summary: A-levels are not the end of the world. ### Text: I'm not doing too badly. I'm not doing too badly. I'm not doing too badly. I'm not doing too badly

uk-wales-north-east-wales-19341513

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-19341513

Deeside industrial estate chosen for £800m waste plant

A plan to build a waste incinerator in Flintshire has been rejected by the council.

The £800m energy-from-waste project is due to be operational from 2017 and will see five councils take their waste to the one site. The proposals have already led to some local opposition. Flintshire council leader Aaron Shotton said he remained concerned about the plans but could do nothing about it. "My commitment to the public remains unchanged," he said. "At present I remain unconvinced over the possibility of incineration and potential health impacts via emissions. "We will need full assurances over the technology, its track record, and how emissions into the air will be contained. "We will require higher than industry standards on emission control with absolute assurances over any impacts on local air quality." He added that the council expects as much waste as possible to be transported off-road and by rail, and it would campaign for a "significant community benefit". Mr Shotton said inquiries had been made about reversing decisions made by previous councils but they were not possible. "The procurement of such a facility from 2017 was at a stage of no turning back when we came into power," he said. "We have been advised that to reverse the decisions made by the previous councils pre-election, could effectively bankrupt the council, but it is critical that the potential health impact is assessed before any further agreements are made." The project has been drawn up by a consortium of five councils and the proposed location is close to Shotton Paper mill. But there is already widespread opposition to the plans from communities in Connah's Quay, Shotton, and areas as well as communities across the Dee estuary in Wirral. The 25-year contract to build and operate the incinerator is worth an estimated £650m, with the Welsh government providing a further £142m towards the scheme.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The £800m energy-from-waste project is due to be operational from 2017 and will see five councils take their waste to the one site. The proposals have already led to some local opposition. Flintshire council leader Aaron Shotton said he remained concerned about the plans but could do nothing about it. "My commitment to the public remains unchanged," he said. "At present I remain unconvinced over the possibility of incineration and potential health impacts via emissions. "We will need full assurances over the technology, its track record, and how emissions into the air will be contained. "We will require higher than industry standards on emission control with absolute assurances over any impacts on local air quality." He added that the council expects as much waste as possible to be transported off-road and by rail, and it would campaign for a "significant community benefit". Mr Shotton said inquiries had been made about reversing decisions made by previous councils but they were not possible. "The procurement of such a facility from 2017 was at a stage of no turning back when we came into power," he said. "We have been advised that to reverse the decisions made by the previous councils pre-election, could effectively bankrupt the council, but it is critical that the potential health impact is assessed before any further agreements are made." The project has been drawn up by a consortium of five councils and the proposed location is close to Shotton Paper mill. But there is already widespread opposition to the plans from communities in Connah's Quay, Shotton, and areas as well as communities across the Dee estuary in Wirral. The 25-year contract to build and operate the incinerator is worth an estimated £650m, with the Welsh government providing a further £142m towards the scheme. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The £800m energy-from-waste project is due to be operational from 2017 and will see five councils take their waste to the one site. The proposals have already led to some local opposition. Flintshire council leader Aaron Shotton said he remained concerned about the plans but could do nothing about it. "My commitment to the public remains unchanged," he said. "At present I remain unconvinced over the possibility of incineration and potential health impacts via emissions. "We will need full assurances over the technology, its track record, and how emissions into the air will be contained. "We will require higher than industry standards on emission control with absolute assurances over any impacts on local air quality." He added that the council expects as much waste as possible to be transported off-road and by rail, and it would campaign for a "significant community benefit". Mr Shotton said inquiries had been made about reversing decisions made by previous councils but they were not possible. "The procurement of such a facility from 2017 was at a stage of no turning back when we came into power," he said. "We have been advised that to reverse the decisions made by the previous councils pre-election, could effectively bankrupt the council, but it is critical that the potential health impact is assessed before any further agreements are made." The project has been drawn up by a consortium of five councils and the proposed location is close to Shotton Paper mill. But there is already widespread opposition to the plans from communities in Connah's Quay, Shotton, and areas as well as communities across the Dee estuary in Wirral. The 25-year contract to build and operate the incinerator is worth an estimated £650m, with the Welsh government providing a further £142m towards the scheme. ### Summary: A plan to build a waste incinerator in Flintshire has been rejected by the council. ### Text: A plan to build a waste incinerator in Flintshire has been rejected by the council. ###

business-55124236

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-55124236

Huawei ban: UK to impose early end to use of new 5G kit

The UK government has announced a new ban on Huawei's 5G kit.

The announcement came ahead of a law being unveiled this afternoon, which bans the Chinese firm from the network. Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said he was pushing for the "complete removal of high-risk vendors" from 5G networks. The new deadline falls earlier than expected, although maintaining old equipment will still be allowed. Networks will now have to adjust their schedules for deployment of the reserves of Huawei 5G kit they have built up. Previously, BT's EE division, Vodafone and Three UK would have had until 2027 to install any such equipment acquired before the end of this year - when a purchase ban comes into effect. Huawei told the BBC it would not be commenting on the announcement. Big fines Attempts to rid Huawei from the network have been ongoing for more than a year. But the new Telecommunications Security Bill is the first step in enshrining such bans in law, and offers details of exactly how it will work - if it is passed by Parliament. MPs will debate the bill at second reading in the Commons at about 15:30GMT. It will give government national security powers, allowing them to give instructions to big telecoms companies, such as BT, about how they use so-called "high-risk" vendors like Huawei, if at all. It also threatens telecoms firms with hefty fines if they fail to comply with the new, higher security standards. They could total 10% of turnover or more than £100,000 per day. Mr Dowden said that the "new and unprecedented powers" would allow government to "identify and ban telecoms equipment which poses a threat to our national security". "We are also publishing a new strategy to make sure we are never again dependent on a handful of telecoms vendors for the smooth and secure running of our networks," he said. The ban on installations will be accompanied by measures to encourage more suppliers to enter the market and replace Huawei, and the development of new technologies that open up the market. There were fears firms might stockpile new kit and install it later, despite a ban on buying it from the end of 2020. Under the new strategy, the government will spend an initial £250m which will involve setting up a National Telecoms Lab research facility as well as investing in open radio technology. "Our plans will spark a wave of innovation in the design of our future mobile networks," Mr Dowden added. Political wrangling It follows months of political wrangling, both in the UK and internationally, over Huawei's threat to security and its alleged links to the Chinese state. In July, the government ordered the complete removal of the company's kit from the entire 5G network by 2027, amid pressure from the US. The UK had initially decided that Huawei equipment should be removed from the sensitive part of the "core" network, and only make up a maximum of 35% of the non-core systems. The deadline was set to be 2023. Huawei, however, has dismissed concerns from both the US and its allies over its operations. Its vice-president Victor Zhang has previously said that the decision to remove the firm from the UK's 5G network was "politically motivated and not based on a fair evaluation of the risks".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The announcement came ahead of a law being unveiled this afternoon, which bans the Chinese firm from the network. Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said he was pushing for the "complete removal of high-risk vendors" from 5G networks. The new deadline falls earlier than expected, although maintaining old equipment will still be allowed. Networks will now have to adjust their schedules for deployment of the reserves of Huawei 5G kit they have built up. Previously, BT's EE division, Vodafone and Three UK would have had until 2027 to install any such equipment acquired before the end of this year - when a purchase ban comes into effect. Huawei told the BBC it would not be commenting on the announcement. Big fines Attempts to rid Huawei from the network have been ongoing for more than a year. But the new Telecommunications Security Bill is the first step in enshrining such bans in law, and offers details of exactly how it will work - if it is passed by Parliament. MPs will debate the bill at second reading in the Commons at about 15:30GMT. It will give government national security powers, allowing them to give instructions to big telecoms companies, such as BT, about how they use so-called "high-risk" vendors like Huawei, if at all. It also threatens telecoms firms with hefty fines if they fail to comply with the new, higher security standards. They could total 10% of turnover or more than £100,000 per day. Mr Dowden said that the "new and unprecedented powers" would allow government to "identify and ban telecoms equipment which poses a threat to our national security". "We are also publishing a new strategy to make sure we are never again dependent on a handful of telecoms vendors for the smooth and secure running of our networks," he said. The ban on installations will be accompanied by measures to encourage more suppliers to enter the market and replace Huawei, and the development of new technologies that open up the market. There were fears firms might stockpile new kit and install it later, despite a ban on buying it from the end of 2020. Under the new strategy, the government will spend an initial £250m which will involve setting up a National Telecoms Lab research facility as well as investing in open radio technology. "Our plans will spark a wave of innovation in the design of our future mobile networks," Mr Dowden added. Political wrangling It follows months of political wrangling, both in the UK and internationally, over Huawei's threat to security and its alleged links to the Chinese state. In July, the government ordered the complete removal of the company's kit from the entire 5G network by 2027, amid pressure from the US. The UK had initially decided that Huawei equipment should be removed from the sensitive part of the "core" network, and only make up a maximum of 35% of the non-core systems. The deadline was set to be 2023. Huawei, however, has dismissed concerns from both the US and its allies over its operations. Its vice-president Victor Zhang has previously said that the decision to remove the firm from the UK's 5G network was "politically motivated and not based on a fair evaluation of the risks". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The announcement came ahead of a law being unveiled this afternoon, which bans the Chinese firm from the network. Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden said he was pushing for the "complete removal of high-risk vendors" from 5G networks. The new deadline falls earlier than expected, although maintaining old equipment will still be allowed. Networks will now have to adjust their schedules for deployment of the reserves of Huawei 5G kit they have built up. Previously, BT's EE division, Vodafone and Three UK would have had until 2027 to install any such equipment acquired before the end of this year - when a purchase ban comes into effect. Huawei told the BBC it would not be commenting on the announcement. Big fines Attempts to rid Huawei from the network have been ongoing for more than a year. But the new Telecommunications Security Bill is the first step in enshrining such bans in law, and offers details of exactly how it will work - if it is passed by Parliament. MPs will debate the bill at second reading in the Commons at about 15:30GMT. It will give government national security powers, allowing them to give instructions to big telecoms companies, such as BT, about how they use so-called "high-risk" vendors like Huawei, if at all. It also threatens telecoms firms with hefty fines if they fail to comply with the new, higher security standards. They could total 10% of turnover or more than £100,000 per day. Mr Dowden said that the "new and unprecedented powers" would allow government to "identify and ban telecoms equipment which poses a threat to our national security". "We are also publishing a new strategy to make sure we are never again dependent on a handful of telecoms vendors for the smooth and secure running of our networks," he said. The ban on installations will be accompanied by measures to encourage more suppliers to enter the market and replace Huawei, and the development of new technologies that open up the market. There were fears firms might stockpile new kit and install it later, despite a ban on buying it from the end of 2020. Under the new strategy, the government will spend an initial £250m which will involve setting up a National Telecoms Lab research facility as well as investing in open radio technology. "Our plans will spark a wave of innovation in the design of our future mobile networks," Mr Dowden added. Political wrangling It follows months of political wrangling, both in the UK and internationally, over Huawei's threat to security and its alleged links to the Chinese state. In July, the government ordered the complete removal of the company's kit from the entire 5G network by 2027, amid pressure from the US. The UK had initially decided that Huawei equipment should be removed from the sensitive part of the "core" network, and only make up a maximum of 35% of the non-core systems. The deadline was set to be 2023. Huawei, however, has dismissed concerns from both the US and its allies over its operations. Its vice-president Victor Zhang has previously said that the decision to remove the firm from the UK's 5G network was "politically motivated and not based on a fair evaluation of the risks". ### Summary: The UK government has announced a new ban on Huawei's 5G kit. ### Text: The Telecommunications Security Bill will give the government the power to ban telecoms equipment which poses a threat

business-23368505

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-23368505

'Generous' tax breaks for shale gas industry outlined

The government has announced plans to introduce a tax break for shale gas companies.

It has proposed cutting the tax on some of the income generated from producing shale gas - found in underground shale rock formations - from 62% to just 30%. The plans would make the UK the "most generous" regime for shale gas in the world, the government said. But they have been criticised by environmentalists, with Friends of the Earth calling them a "disgrace". Greenpeace added that communities affected by fracking - the technique for extracting shale gas - faced a lot of disruption for very little gain. Chancellor George Osborne said shale gas was a resource with "huge potential" for the UK's energy mix. "We want to create the right conditions for industry to explore and unlock that potential in a way that allows communities to share in the benefits," he said. "I want Britain to be a leader of the shale gas revolution because it has the potential to create thousands of jobs and keep energy bills low for millions of people." The shale gas firm Cuadrilla welcomed the news and said it would consider the implications. "Whilst we are still in the exploration phase, we believe that shale gas has the potential to make a considerable contribution to the UK's energy supply and security, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs and generating very significant tax revenues and community benefits," said Cuadrilla's chief executive, Francis Egan. The UK is believed to have large resources of shale gas. A recent report from the British Geological Survey estimated there may be 1,300 trillion cubic feet of shale gas present in the north of England alone - much of it in the Bowland Basin under Lancashire. Drilling companies have previously estimated that they may be able to extract about 10% of this gas - far in excess of the three trillion cubic feet of gas currently consumed in the UK each year. However, the industry is still in its infancy with a handful of companies holding licences for shale gas exploration in the UK, none of which have begun extracting gas. Water quality In backing shale gas exploration, the government points to the experience of the US, where a shale gas boom has had a dramatic effect on the energy sector. Under its plans, the tax break would apply to a proportion of the income generated from shale gas production. What that proportion is will be determined after a consultation. BBC industry correspondent John Moylan says the industry regards the tax incentives as necessary, as costs are likely to be high during the initial exploration phase over the coming years. The government has also confirmed plans to give communities that host shale gas sites £100,000 per site, and up to 1% of all revenues from production. That is designed to offset some of the controversy surrounding the process of fracking. There are concerns the process, which involves pumping high pressure water, sand and chemicals into rock to force out the gas, is related to water contamination and even earth tremors. Water companies have warned that the quality of drinking water must be protected "at all costs". Water UK, which represents the UK water companies, points out that fracking requires huge amounts of water which could put a strain on local supplies. It also says the drilling and the fracturing process could damage water pipes. "The water industry is not taking sides. If it (fracking) goes ahead we want to ensure corners are not cut and standards compromised," said Jim Marshall, policy and business adviser at Water UK. Environmental groups argue that investment in the industry will divert attention from the need to develop renewable sources of energy. Andrew Pendleton, from Friends of the Earth, condemned the move. "Promising tax hand-outs to polluting energy firms that threaten our communities and environment, when everyone else is being told to tighten their belts, is a disgrace," he said. "Ministers should be encouraging investors to develop the nation's huge renewable energy potential. This would create tens of thousands of jobs and wean the nation off its increasingly expensive fossil fuel dependency."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It has proposed cutting the tax on some of the income generated from producing shale gas - found in underground shale rock formations - from 62% to just 30%. The plans would make the UK the "most generous" regime for shale gas in the world, the government said. But they have been criticised by environmentalists, with Friends of the Earth calling them a "disgrace". Greenpeace added that communities affected by fracking - the technique for extracting shale gas - faced a lot of disruption for very little gain. Chancellor George Osborne said shale gas was a resource with "huge potential" for the UK's energy mix. "We want to create the right conditions for industry to explore and unlock that potential in a way that allows communities to share in the benefits," he said. "I want Britain to be a leader of the shale gas revolution because it has the potential to create thousands of jobs and keep energy bills low for millions of people." The shale gas firm Cuadrilla welcomed the news and said it would consider the implications. "Whilst we are still in the exploration phase, we believe that shale gas has the potential to make a considerable contribution to the UK's energy supply and security, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs and generating very significant tax revenues and community benefits," said Cuadrilla's chief executive, Francis Egan. The UK is believed to have large resources of shale gas. A recent report from the British Geological Survey estimated there may be 1,300 trillion cubic feet of shale gas present in the north of England alone - much of it in the Bowland Basin under Lancashire. Drilling companies have previously estimated that they may be able to extract about 10% of this gas - far in excess of the three trillion cubic feet of gas currently consumed in the UK each year. However, the industry is still in its infancy with a handful of companies holding licences for shale gas exploration in the UK, none of which have begun extracting gas. Water quality In backing shale gas exploration, the government points to the experience of the US, where a shale gas boom has had a dramatic effect on the energy sector. Under its plans, the tax break would apply to a proportion of the income generated from shale gas production. What that proportion is will be determined after a consultation. BBC industry correspondent John Moylan says the industry regards the tax incentives as necessary, as costs are likely to be high during the initial exploration phase over the coming years. The government has also confirmed plans to give communities that host shale gas sites £100,000 per site, and up to 1% of all revenues from production. That is designed to offset some of the controversy surrounding the process of fracking. There are concerns the process, which involves pumping high pressure water, sand and chemicals into rock to force out the gas, is related to water contamination and even earth tremors. Water companies have warned that the quality of drinking water must be protected "at all costs". Water UK, which represents the UK water companies, points out that fracking requires huge amounts of water which could put a strain on local supplies. It also says the drilling and the fracturing process could damage water pipes. "The water industry is not taking sides. If it (fracking) goes ahead we want to ensure corners are not cut and standards compromised," said Jim Marshall, policy and business adviser at Water UK. Environmental groups argue that investment in the industry will divert attention from the need to develop renewable sources of energy. Andrew Pendleton, from Friends of the Earth, condemned the move. "Promising tax hand-outs to polluting energy firms that threaten our communities and environment, when everyone else is being told to tighten their belts, is a disgrace," he said. "Ministers should be encouraging investors to develop the nation's huge renewable energy potential. This would create tens of thousands of jobs and wean the nation off its increasingly expensive fossil fuel dependency." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It has proposed cutting the tax on some of the income generated from producing shale gas - found in underground shale rock formations - from 62% to just 30%. The plans would make the UK the "most generous" regime for shale gas in the world, the government said. But they have been criticised by environmentalists, with Friends of the Earth calling them a "disgrace". Greenpeace added that communities affected by fracking - the technique for extracting shale gas - faced a lot of disruption for very little gain. Chancellor George Osborne said shale gas was a resource with "huge potential" for the UK's energy mix. "We want to create the right conditions for industry to explore and unlock that potential in a way that allows communities to share in the benefits," he said. "I want Britain to be a leader of the shale gas revolution because it has the potential to create thousands of jobs and keep energy bills low for millions of people." The shale gas firm Cuadrilla welcomed the news and said it would consider the implications. "Whilst we are still in the exploration phase, we believe that shale gas has the potential to make a considerable contribution to the UK's energy supply and security, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs and generating very significant tax revenues and community benefits," said Cuadrilla's chief executive, Francis Egan. The UK is believed to have large resources of shale gas. A recent report from the British Geological Survey estimated there may be 1,300 trillion cubic feet of shale gas present in the north of England alone - much of it in the Bowland Basin under Lancashire. Drilling companies have previously estimated that they may be able to extract about 10% of this gas - far in excess of the three trillion cubic feet of gas currently consumed in the UK each year. However, the industry is still in its infancy with a handful of companies holding licences for shale gas exploration in the UK, none of which have begun extracting gas. Water quality In backing shale gas exploration, the government points to the experience of the US, where a shale gas boom has had a dramatic effect on the energy sector. Under its plans, the tax break would apply to a proportion of the income generated from shale gas production. What that proportion is will be determined after a consultation. BBC industry correspondent John Moylan says the industry regards the tax incentives as necessary, as costs are likely to be high during the initial exploration phase over the coming years. The government has also confirmed plans to give communities that host shale gas sites £100,000 per site, and up to 1% of all revenues from production. That is designed to offset some of the controversy surrounding the process of fracking. There are concerns the process, which involves pumping high pressure water, sand and chemicals into rock to force out the gas, is related to water contamination and even earth tremors. Water companies have warned that the quality of drinking water must be protected "at all costs". Water UK, which represents the UK water companies, points out that fracking requires huge amounts of water which could put a strain on local supplies. It also says the drilling and the fracturing process could damage water pipes. "The water industry is not taking sides. If it (fracking) goes ahead we want to ensure corners are not cut and standards compromised," said Jim Marshall, policy and business adviser at Water UK. Environmental groups argue that investment in the industry will divert attention from the need to develop renewable sources of energy. Andrew Pendleton, from Friends of the Earth, condemned the move. "Promising tax hand-outs to polluting energy firms that threaten our communities and environment, when everyone else is being told to tighten their belts, is a disgrace," he said. "Ministers should be encouraging investors to develop the nation's huge renewable energy potential. This would create tens of thousands of jobs and wean the nation off its increasingly expensive fossil fuel dependency." ### Summary: The government has announced plans to introduce a tax break for shale gas companies. ### Text: The government has announced plans to introduce a tax break for shale gas companies. ### Summary: The government has

uk-northern-ireland-53805191

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-53805191

Coronavirus: The County Tyrone hay bale superheroes

A superhero attraction has been erected in a County Tyrone field.

By Ali GordonBBC News NI After weeks of planning, the 12ft (3.65m) high structures have been erected in a County Tyrone field. Spiderman, Batman, Superwoman, Iron Man, Wonder Woman and Captain America are attracting lots of visitors. "There have been people queuing up to see it," one of the designers told BBC News NI. In recent years the field, on the Newtownstewart bypass, has been home to hay bales which have been transformed into a giant teddy bear, Toy Story 4 and Wizard of Oz characters, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The attraction raises money for charity and promotes a community festival. But this year, there's a very important message behind the theme. "We thought we'd use the bales as a message for Covid-19 - that superheroes represent us, the people, who are key weapons in the battle against coronavirus," said Shauneen Kilpatrick. "The superheroes are supposed to be representative of each and every person and the weapons we've been given to fight the battle is social distancing, washing your hands and wearing a mask. "We want to reinforce the message that we are all in this together, especially now when there's a threat of a second wave and we are seeing spikes in the number of cases. "It's another way of reminding people that we should all be complying and not to get complacent." Creating the structures is a team effort. "It starts with finding something that people like and then doing a few sketches to try to work out how the concept works with the bales," said Ms Kilpatrick. "You then have work out what materials to use, whether you want wooden structures or what works best. "We have a great team though. You have to work out the positions of the bales and how to balance them which is no easy job. "To get them that high, you have to balance them properly and then they are structured with iron bars and posts to give them stability. "Everyone does their best to make the concept come alive. "You have to be public-minded too and make sure the public are safe when they come to visit. "You don't realise how high they are until you see people beside them and then you realise just how big they are, but that's what draws people to them. "The reaction has been amazing, it's been so positive."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Ali GordonBBC News NI After weeks of planning, the 12ft (3.65m) high structures have been erected in a County Tyrone field. Spiderman, Batman, Superwoman, Iron Man, Wonder Woman and Captain America are attracting lots of visitors. "There have been people queuing up to see it," one of the designers told BBC News NI. In recent years the field, on the Newtownstewart bypass, has been home to hay bales which have been transformed into a giant teddy bear, Toy Story 4 and Wizard of Oz characters, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The attraction raises money for charity and promotes a community festival. But this year, there's a very important message behind the theme. "We thought we'd use the bales as a message for Covid-19 - that superheroes represent us, the people, who are key weapons in the battle against coronavirus," said Shauneen Kilpatrick. "The superheroes are supposed to be representative of each and every person and the weapons we've been given to fight the battle is social distancing, washing your hands and wearing a mask. "We want to reinforce the message that we are all in this together, especially now when there's a threat of a second wave and we are seeing spikes in the number of cases. "It's another way of reminding people that we should all be complying and not to get complacent." Creating the structures is a team effort. "It starts with finding something that people like and then doing a few sketches to try to work out how the concept works with the bales," said Ms Kilpatrick. "You then have work out what materials to use, whether you want wooden structures or what works best. "We have a great team though. You have to work out the positions of the bales and how to balance them which is no easy job. "To get them that high, you have to balance them properly and then they are structured with iron bars and posts to give them stability. "Everyone does their best to make the concept come alive. "You have to be public-minded too and make sure the public are safe when they come to visit. "You don't realise how high they are until you see people beside them and then you realise just how big they are, but that's what draws people to them. "The reaction has been amazing, it's been so positive." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Ali GordonBBC News NI After weeks of planning, the 12ft (3.65m) high structures have been erected in a County Tyrone field. Spiderman, Batman, Superwoman, Iron Man, Wonder Woman and Captain America are attracting lots of visitors. "There have been people queuing up to see it," one of the designers told BBC News NI. In recent years the field, on the Newtownstewart bypass, has been home to hay bales which have been transformed into a giant teddy bear, Toy Story 4 and Wizard of Oz characters, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The attraction raises money for charity and promotes a community festival. But this year, there's a very important message behind the theme. "We thought we'd use the bales as a message for Covid-19 - that superheroes represent us, the people, who are key weapons in the battle against coronavirus," said Shauneen Kilpatrick. "The superheroes are supposed to be representative of each and every person and the weapons we've been given to fight the battle is social distancing, washing your hands and wearing a mask. "We want to reinforce the message that we are all in this together, especially now when there's a threat of a second wave and we are seeing spikes in the number of cases. "It's another way of reminding people that we should all be complying and not to get complacent." Creating the structures is a team effort. "It starts with finding something that people like and then doing a few sketches to try to work out how the concept works with the bales," said Ms Kilpatrick. "You then have work out what materials to use, whether you want wooden structures or what works best. "We have a great team though. You have to work out the positions of the bales and how to balance them which is no easy job. "To get them that high, you have to balance them properly and then they are structured with iron bars and posts to give them stability. "Everyone does their best to make the concept come alive. "You have to be public-minded too and make sure the public are safe when they come to visit. "You don't realise how high they are until you see people beside them and then you realise just how big they are, but that's what draws people to them. "The reaction has been amazing, it's been so positive." ### Summary: A superhero attraction has been erected in a County Tyrone field. ### Text: A superhero attraction has been erected in a County Tyrone field. ### Summary:

world-europe-55674985

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-55674985

German sports doctor jailed over blood doping scandal

A doctor who was found guilty of blood doping has been fined €158,000 (£140,000; $190,000).

Mark Schmidt, 42, was also fined €158,000 (£140,000; $190,000) and banned from practising medicine for a further three years by a Munich court. The blood-doping ring mostly involved cross-country skiers and cyclists. Schmidt was arrested in February 2019 following raids on his home in Erfurt, Germany, and at Seefeld in Austria. At the time, the ski resort in Seefeld was hosting the Nordic World Ski Championships. Several suspects were detained just before the start of a men's cross-country event and one Austrian athlete was caught undergoing a blood transfusion. The arrests sent shockwaves through the skiing world. Blood doping involves re-injecting an athlete's own blood to boost red-blood cell concentration, increasing stamina and performance. The police operation "Aderlass", which means blood-letting in German, led to the first major prosecutions since doping became a criminal offence in Germany in 2015. Schmidt went on trial in September with four accomplices who were also found guilty by the Munich court. Two received suspended sentences and the other two were handed fines. The disgraced doctor expressed remorse for his crimes last week in a written statement read out by his lawyers, saying: "I took a wrong turn and have myself to blame." He also said he regretted involving his co-defendants, adding: "I am infinitely sorry that I dragged the other four into it." One of the co-defendants had told the court how she had driven around Europe handing out doping supplies to athletes for a fee of €200 (£180; $240) each time. During the trial Schmidt admitted blood doping but insisted he didn't financially profit from it and that no-one's health was put at risk. Schmidt was found guilty on 24 counts of using doping methods and two counts of forbidden use of medicinal drugs.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mark Schmidt, 42, was also fined €158,000 (£140,000; $190,000) and banned from practising medicine for a further three years by a Munich court. The blood-doping ring mostly involved cross-country skiers and cyclists. Schmidt was arrested in February 2019 following raids on his home in Erfurt, Germany, and at Seefeld in Austria. At the time, the ski resort in Seefeld was hosting the Nordic World Ski Championships. Several suspects were detained just before the start of a men's cross-country event and one Austrian athlete was caught undergoing a blood transfusion. The arrests sent shockwaves through the skiing world. Blood doping involves re-injecting an athlete's own blood to boost red-blood cell concentration, increasing stamina and performance. The police operation "Aderlass", which means blood-letting in German, led to the first major prosecutions since doping became a criminal offence in Germany in 2015. Schmidt went on trial in September with four accomplices who were also found guilty by the Munich court. Two received suspended sentences and the other two were handed fines. The disgraced doctor expressed remorse for his crimes last week in a written statement read out by his lawyers, saying: "I took a wrong turn and have myself to blame." He also said he regretted involving his co-defendants, adding: "I am infinitely sorry that I dragged the other four into it." One of the co-defendants had told the court how she had driven around Europe handing out doping supplies to athletes for a fee of €200 (£180; $240) each time. During the trial Schmidt admitted blood doping but insisted he didn't financially profit from it and that no-one's health was put at risk. Schmidt was found guilty on 24 counts of using doping methods and two counts of forbidden use of medicinal drugs. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mark Schmidt, 42, was also fined €158,000 (£140,000; $190,000) and banned from practising medicine for a further three years by a Munich court. The blood-doping ring mostly involved cross-country skiers and cyclists. Schmidt was arrested in February 2019 following raids on his home in Erfurt, Germany, and at Seefeld in Austria. At the time, the ski resort in Seefeld was hosting the Nordic World Ski Championships. Several suspects were detained just before the start of a men's cross-country event and one Austrian athlete was caught undergoing a blood transfusion. The arrests sent shockwaves through the skiing world. Blood doping involves re-injecting an athlete's own blood to boost red-blood cell concentration, increasing stamina and performance. The police operation "Aderlass", which means blood-letting in German, led to the first major prosecutions since doping became a criminal offence in Germany in 2015. Schmidt went on trial in September with four accomplices who were also found guilty by the Munich court. Two received suspended sentences and the other two were handed fines. The disgraced doctor expressed remorse for his crimes last week in a written statement read out by his lawyers, saying: "I took a wrong turn and have myself to blame." He also said he regretted involving his co-defendants, adding: "I am infinitely sorry that I dragged the other four into it." One of the co-defendants had told the court how she had driven around Europe handing out doping supplies to athletes for a fee of €200 (£180; $240) each time. During the trial Schmidt admitted blood doping but insisted he didn't financially profit from it and that no-one's health was put at risk. Schmidt was found guilty on 24 counts of using doping methods and two counts of forbidden use of medicinal drugs. ### Summary: A doctor who was found guilty of blood doping has been fined €158,000 (£140,000; $190,000). ### Text: A doctor

uk-england-hampshire-45193555

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-45193555

Itchen Bridge toll dropped for electric cars

A new toll bridge has been introduced in Southampton.

Charges on Itchen Bridge, which links Woolston to Southampton city centre, have been scrapped by the council to encourage the use of electric vehicles. The move comes under new proposals to improve air quality in the city which is one of five forecast to exceed EU air quality limits beyond 2020. Eligible drivers will need to present a SmartCities card to cross the bridge free of charge. About £32,000 is expected to be lost in tolls in the first year as electric vehicles currently represent about 1% of road traffic, Southampton City Council said. Online payments were introduced on the crossing in 2013 when automatic toll gates were brought in. Drivers have to use cash bins, which do not give change, or pre-paid smart cards. Fees to cross the bridge vary from 50p to £25 depending on the size of vehicle and time of travel. Each year the bridge sees about seven million crossings with tolls generating an annual revenue of approximately £3.2m.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Charges on Itchen Bridge, which links Woolston to Southampton city centre, have been scrapped by the council to encourage the use of electric vehicles. The move comes under new proposals to improve air quality in the city which is one of five forecast to exceed EU air quality limits beyond 2020. Eligible drivers will need to present a SmartCities card to cross the bridge free of charge. About £32,000 is expected to be lost in tolls in the first year as electric vehicles currently represent about 1% of road traffic, Southampton City Council said. Online payments were introduced on the crossing in 2013 when automatic toll gates were brought in. Drivers have to use cash bins, which do not give change, or pre-paid smart cards. Fees to cross the bridge vary from 50p to £25 depending on the size of vehicle and time of travel. Each year the bridge sees about seven million crossings with tolls generating an annual revenue of approximately £3.2m. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Charges on Itchen Bridge, which links Woolston to Southampton city centre, have been scrapped by the council to encourage the use of electric vehicles. The move comes under new proposals to improve air quality in the city which is one of five forecast to exceed EU air quality limits beyond 2020. Eligible drivers will need to present a SmartCities card to cross the bridge free of charge. About £32,000 is expected to be lost in tolls in the first year as electric vehicles currently represent about 1% of road traffic, Southampton City Council said. Online payments were introduced on the crossing in 2013 when automatic toll gates were brought in. Drivers have to use cash bins, which do not give change, or pre-paid smart cards. Fees to cross the bridge vary from 50p to £25 depending on the size of vehicle and time of travel. Each year the bridge sees about seven million crossings with tolls generating an annual revenue of approximately £3.2m. ### Summary: A new toll bridge has been introduced in Southampton. ### Next story: A new toll bridge has been introduced in Southampton. ### Next story: A new toll bridge has been introduced

uk-england-hereford-worcester-26769257

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-26769257

West Mercia Police 'wrong to Taser man on roof'

A man who was Tasered by police has been cleared of any wrongdoing.

The man was armed with a knife and hammer on a roof in Worcester, threatening to harm himself, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said. Trying to detain him under the Mental Health Act, an officer Tasered him, despite a negotiator being on the way. He suffered minor injuries in the 8ft fall and made a complaint. He said officers had not warned him in advance that the device would be used. The IPCC concluded there was a case for misconduct and, at a hearing earlier this month, West Mercia Police upheld the charge. An inspector and sergeant received management advice for authorising its use to a third officer, who was himself cleared of any wrongdoing. 'Completely inappropriate' The IPCC said the victim did not pose a threat. "He was clearly distressed and in my view it was wrong to use force against him, whilst the option of persuading him to come down safely remained open," IPCC Deputy Chair Rachel Cerfontyne said. She described the Taser use as "potentially very dangerous and completely inappropriate". In a statement, West Mercia Police said one of the officers has chosen to appeal and that it would be "inappropriate for us to comment further at this time". The IPCC investigation also found the force should clarify how officers are debriefed in such cases. Last year there were 154 referrals to the IPCC over the use of stun guns by forces in England and Wales, up from 99 in 2010. "The IPCC is very clear that we have serious reservations about some of the circumstances in which a Taser is used," Ms Cerfontyne said. "The public's concern over the use of Taser will only increase with cases such as this one."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The man was armed with a knife and hammer on a roof in Worcester, threatening to harm himself, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said. Trying to detain him under the Mental Health Act, an officer Tasered him, despite a negotiator being on the way. He suffered minor injuries in the 8ft fall and made a complaint. He said officers had not warned him in advance that the device would be used. The IPCC concluded there was a case for misconduct and, at a hearing earlier this month, West Mercia Police upheld the charge. An inspector and sergeant received management advice for authorising its use to a third officer, who was himself cleared of any wrongdoing. 'Completely inappropriate' The IPCC said the victim did not pose a threat. "He was clearly distressed and in my view it was wrong to use force against him, whilst the option of persuading him to come down safely remained open," IPCC Deputy Chair Rachel Cerfontyne said. She described the Taser use as "potentially very dangerous and completely inappropriate". In a statement, West Mercia Police said one of the officers has chosen to appeal and that it would be "inappropriate for us to comment further at this time". The IPCC investigation also found the force should clarify how officers are debriefed in such cases. Last year there were 154 referrals to the IPCC over the use of stun guns by forces in England and Wales, up from 99 in 2010. "The IPCC is very clear that we have serious reservations about some of the circumstances in which a Taser is used," Ms Cerfontyne said. "The public's concern over the use of Taser will only increase with cases such as this one." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The man was armed with a knife and hammer on a roof in Worcester, threatening to harm himself, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said. Trying to detain him under the Mental Health Act, an officer Tasered him, despite a negotiator being on the way. He suffered minor injuries in the 8ft fall and made a complaint. He said officers had not warned him in advance that the device would be used. The IPCC concluded there was a case for misconduct and, at a hearing earlier this month, West Mercia Police upheld the charge. An inspector and sergeant received management advice for authorising its use to a third officer, who was himself cleared of any wrongdoing. 'Completely inappropriate' The IPCC said the victim did not pose a threat. "He was clearly distressed and in my view it was wrong to use force against him, whilst the option of persuading him to come down safely remained open," IPCC Deputy Chair Rachel Cerfontyne said. She described the Taser use as "potentially very dangerous and completely inappropriate". In a statement, West Mercia Police said one of the officers has chosen to appeal and that it would be "inappropriate for us to comment further at this time". The IPCC investigation also found the force should clarify how officers are debriefed in such cases. Last year there were 154 referrals to the IPCC over the use of stun guns by forces in England and Wales, up from 99 in 2010. "The IPCC is very clear that we have serious reservations about some of the circumstances in which a Taser is used," Ms Cerfontyne said. "The public's concern over the use of Taser will only increase with cases such as this one." ### Summary: A man who was Tasered by police has been cleared of any wrongdoing. ### Source: A man who was Tasered by police has been cleared of any wrongdoing. ### Details A man who

uk-scotland-highlands-islands-29504475

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-29504475

High winds and floods affect roads and ferries in Scotland

A flood warning has been issued for parts of Scotland.

The Met Office has issued yellow "be aware" warnings for many areas, including the Northern Isles and parts of Tayside, Lothian and the south west. Ferry sailings in the Hebrides and the west coast have been badly affected. The Skye Bridge was closed to all traffic for several hours, before later being opened to cars. The Dornoch Bridge was also closed to high sided vehicles. Traffic Scotland has warned about the possibility of disruption in large parts of the country. Gusts of up to 115mph have been recorded at the CairnGorm Mountain ski centre. Flooding has closed Castlebay Community School on the island of Barra. Water up to eight inches deep filled classrooms and corridors. The school will remain closed on Friday ahead of the October holidays. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued three flood alerts for Tayside, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen and Dundee and Angus. A flood warning is also in place for Glen Lyon. Police Scotland has also warned of flooding affecting the Whitesands area in Dumfries.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Met Office has issued yellow "be aware" warnings for many areas, including the Northern Isles and parts of Tayside, Lothian and the south west. Ferry sailings in the Hebrides and the west coast have been badly affected. The Skye Bridge was closed to all traffic for several hours, before later being opened to cars. The Dornoch Bridge was also closed to high sided vehicles. Traffic Scotland has warned about the possibility of disruption in large parts of the country. Gusts of up to 115mph have been recorded at the CairnGorm Mountain ski centre. Flooding has closed Castlebay Community School on the island of Barra. Water up to eight inches deep filled classrooms and corridors. The school will remain closed on Friday ahead of the October holidays. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued three flood alerts for Tayside, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen and Dundee and Angus. A flood warning is also in place for Glen Lyon. Police Scotland has also warned of flooding affecting the Whitesands area in Dumfries. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Met Office has issued yellow "be aware" warnings for many areas, including the Northern Isles and parts of Tayside, Lothian and the south west. Ferry sailings in the Hebrides and the west coast have been badly affected. The Skye Bridge was closed to all traffic for several hours, before later being opened to cars. The Dornoch Bridge was also closed to high sided vehicles. Traffic Scotland has warned about the possibility of disruption in large parts of the country. Gusts of up to 115mph have been recorded at the CairnGorm Mountain ski centre. Flooding has closed Castlebay Community School on the island of Barra. Water up to eight inches deep filled classrooms and corridors. The school will remain closed on Friday ahead of the October holidays. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has issued three flood alerts for Tayside, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen and Dundee and Angus. A flood warning is also in place for Glen Lyon. Police Scotland has also warned of flooding affecting the Whitesands area in Dumfries. ### Summary: A flood warning has been issued for parts of Scotland. ### Next story: Flood warnings have been issued for parts of Scotland. ### Next story: Flood warnings have been issued for parts of Scotland.

uk-england-dorset-46411503

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-dorset-46411503

Woman dies 10 days after Poole car crash

A woman has died after being struck by a car in Dorset.

The woman was struck by a grey Toyota Yaris at the junction of Lake Road and Upwey Avenue in Hamworthy, Dorset, shortly after 16:30 GMT on 20 November. She was taken to hospital for treatment to a serious head injury, but died on Friday morning. Dorset Police has appealed for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. The driver of the car, a woman aged in her 70s, was uninjured.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The woman was struck by a grey Toyota Yaris at the junction of Lake Road and Upwey Avenue in Hamworthy, Dorset, shortly after 16:30 GMT on 20 November. She was taken to hospital for treatment to a serious head injury, but died on Friday morning. Dorset Police has appealed for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. The driver of the car, a woman aged in her 70s, was uninjured. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The woman was struck by a grey Toyota Yaris at the junction of Lake Road and Upwey Avenue in Hamworthy, Dorset, shortly after 16:30 GMT on 20 November. She was taken to hospital for treatment to a serious head injury, but died on Friday morning. Dorset Police has appealed for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. The driver of the car, a woman aged in her 70s, was uninjured. ### Summary: A woman has died after being struck by a car in Dorset. ### Next steps: ### Ends: ### No more updates ### Next story: A woman has died after being struck by a car

uk-england-london-16528509

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-16528509

Stephen Lawrence Centre in Deptford 'at risk' of shutting

A charity has been forced to close after a gang of youths stabbed a man to death.

Mr Lawrence, 18, was stabbed to death in 1993 by a gang of youths in Eltham. Gary Dobson, 36, and David Norris, 35, were recently jailed for the murder. Doreen Lawrence has said the Stephen Lawrence Centre in Deptford - which aims to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds - may close unless more money can be found. The centre provides training courses in areas such as IT and the creative arts. Doreen Lawrence said: "We've been experiencing financial hardship for a while, but now as time's gone on it's got really bad. 'Squeezed so much' "The situation's been getting more and more difficult. "We find ourselves in the situation now where funding's been squeezed so much. "People believe because Stephen Lawrence's name is so high profile the trust doesn't need any help - but we need help desperately." She said charities such as this one were finding it difficult to continue their work. Related Internet Links The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Lawrence, 18, was stabbed to death in 1993 by a gang of youths in Eltham. Gary Dobson, 36, and David Norris, 35, were recently jailed for the murder. Doreen Lawrence has said the Stephen Lawrence Centre in Deptford - which aims to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds - may close unless more money can be found. The centre provides training courses in areas such as IT and the creative arts. Doreen Lawrence said: "We've been experiencing financial hardship for a while, but now as time's gone on it's got really bad. 'Squeezed so much' "The situation's been getting more and more difficult. "We find ourselves in the situation now where funding's been squeezed so much. "People believe because Stephen Lawrence's name is so high profile the trust doesn't need any help - but we need help desperately." She said charities such as this one were finding it difficult to continue their work. Related Internet Links The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Lawrence, 18, was stabbed to death in 1993 by a gang of youths in Eltham. Gary Dobson, 36, and David Norris, 35, were recently jailed for the murder. Doreen Lawrence has said the Stephen Lawrence Centre in Deptford - which aims to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds - may close unless more money can be found. The centre provides training courses in areas such as IT and the creative arts. Doreen Lawrence said: "We've been experiencing financial hardship for a while, but now as time's gone on it's got really bad. 'Squeezed so much' "The situation's been getting more and more difficult. "We find ourselves in the situation now where funding's been squeezed so much. "People believe because Stephen Lawrence's name is so high profile the trust doesn't need any help - but we need help desperately." She said charities such as this one were finding it difficult to continue their work. Related Internet Links The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust ### Summary: A charity has been forced to close after a gang of youths stabbed a man to death. ### Next story: A charity has been forced to close after a gang of youths stabbed a man to

uk-wales-south-east-wales-15399052

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-15399052

Assembly gas drilling guidance call over Vale rejection

The Welsh government has said it would welcome the UK government working with devolved administrations across the UK to put in place a robust and evidence based policy framework for shale gas in the UK.

Vale of Glamorgan leader Gordon Kemp spoke after the council unanimously rejected an application for drilling at a site in Llandow. The council said Welsh Water concerns about pollution of its reserve groundwater sites swayed the decision. The Welsh government called for a UK government policy on shale gas. Bridgend-based Coastal Oil and Gas Limited has said it will appeal against the council's rejection on Thursday night. Mr Kemp told BBC Radio Wales: "There was a lot of public opposition to it and councillors took that into account. They also had concerns about the application itself. "The committee weren't satisfied the applicants had put enough information in regarding ground water supplies. "In any situation where there's doubt the decision to reject was probably the correct one." Mr Kemp said he had been keen throughout the application process to receive guidance from the Welsh government, and had written to the first minister. "This is not the best way of getting [the matter] considered by the assembly. It's an ad hoc thing as it were. It will be based on an appeal. I'd have preferred them to have made a decision themselves from day on on it." He denied that the council was out of its depth on the matter. "The difficulty is we have no proper guidance from the assembly on this. The assembly has... there are mineral policies but I don't think they cover a situation such as this. "This is why I have been calling both the assembly to determine matters such as this and also come up with some guidance." The Welsh government said there was a need to look at both the potential of gas exploration, but also concerns about the potential impacts of this form of gas extraction. "We would welcome the UK government working with devolved administrations across the UK to put in place a robust and evidence based policy framework for shale gas in the UK," said a spokesperson. 'Small risk' "The case for a moratorium on shale gas rests with the UK government, who are the licensing agents for exploration." In its letter Welsh Water said it believed there was "a very small risk" of contamination of its reserve groundwater sites from the proposed exploratory drilling. But it added: "If there is an excessive loss of drilling fluid to the aquifer during the drilling procedure due to unforeseen geological features being met, then this level of risk increases." Clifford Patten, planning consultant for Coastal Oil and Gas Limited, said he was "very surprised" that Welsh Water considered there could be a risk. "I was at a meeting with them on Monday where they said the only ground water interest they would have would be around... the Ewenny, Ogmore-by-Sea area. "Surface water is an issue for Environment Agency." Fracking The application was opposed by The Vale Says No campaign group whose members had campaigned in Barry, where the council met. The group had expressed concerns about an element of drilling for shale gas called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. It involves the high-pressure fracturing of rocks such as shale with a mixture of water, sand and chemicals. It is a process which has been condemned in several US states. In Europe, France has banned fracking after 100,000 people signed a petition, though the Polish government has been more supportive of using shale gas as an energy source. Investigated Campaigners from The Vale Says No had claimed that gas drilling, especially shale gas drilling, could be "potentially catastrophic" and would shatter the peace of a rural area. The side effects of fracking are still being investigated after two earth tremors near Blackpool last summer. Gas drilling in that part of Lancashire has been suspended. Concerns are on contaminating any underground water, and which chemicals are pumped at high pressure to release shale gas. Coast Oil and Gas had said the plan for the Vale was still at the exploration stage and the firm had no intention of fracking in the near future. He said the potential in terms of energy security and local jobs was considerable. In July shadow UK energy minister Huw Irranca-Davies called for the UK government to embed shale gas in its wider energy policy. The Ogmore MP said with the decline in North Sea gas and the UK's increasing reliance on imported gas, it could have potential. He said if extracted properly, shale gas could be a source of cheap affordable gas and be part of the UK's low carbon future.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Vale of Glamorgan leader Gordon Kemp spoke after the council unanimously rejected an application for drilling at a site in Llandow. The council said Welsh Water concerns about pollution of its reserve groundwater sites swayed the decision. The Welsh government called for a UK government policy on shale gas. Bridgend-based Coastal Oil and Gas Limited has said it will appeal against the council's rejection on Thursday night. Mr Kemp told BBC Radio Wales: "There was a lot of public opposition to it and councillors took that into account. They also had concerns about the application itself. "The committee weren't satisfied the applicants had put enough information in regarding ground water supplies. "In any situation where there's doubt the decision to reject was probably the correct one." Mr Kemp said he had been keen throughout the application process to receive guidance from the Welsh government, and had written to the first minister. "This is not the best way of getting [the matter] considered by the assembly. It's an ad hoc thing as it were. It will be based on an appeal. I'd have preferred them to have made a decision themselves from day on on it." He denied that the council was out of its depth on the matter. "The difficulty is we have no proper guidance from the assembly on this. The assembly has... there are mineral policies but I don't think they cover a situation such as this. "This is why I have been calling both the assembly to determine matters such as this and also come up with some guidance." The Welsh government said there was a need to look at both the potential of gas exploration, but also concerns about the potential impacts of this form of gas extraction. "We would welcome the UK government working with devolved administrations across the UK to put in place a robust and evidence based policy framework for shale gas in the UK," said a spokesperson. 'Small risk' "The case for a moratorium on shale gas rests with the UK government, who are the licensing agents for exploration." In its letter Welsh Water said it believed there was "a very small risk" of contamination of its reserve groundwater sites from the proposed exploratory drilling. But it added: "If there is an excessive loss of drilling fluid to the aquifer during the drilling procedure due to unforeseen geological features being met, then this level of risk increases." Clifford Patten, planning consultant for Coastal Oil and Gas Limited, said he was "very surprised" that Welsh Water considered there could be a risk. "I was at a meeting with them on Monday where they said the only ground water interest they would have would be around... the Ewenny, Ogmore-by-Sea area. "Surface water is an issue for Environment Agency." Fracking The application was opposed by The Vale Says No campaign group whose members had campaigned in Barry, where the council met. The group had expressed concerns about an element of drilling for shale gas called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. It involves the high-pressure fracturing of rocks such as shale with a mixture of water, sand and chemicals. It is a process which has been condemned in several US states. In Europe, France has banned fracking after 100,000 people signed a petition, though the Polish government has been more supportive of using shale gas as an energy source. Investigated Campaigners from The Vale Says No had claimed that gas drilling, especially shale gas drilling, could be "potentially catastrophic" and would shatter the peace of a rural area. The side effects of fracking are still being investigated after two earth tremors near Blackpool last summer. Gas drilling in that part of Lancashire has been suspended. Concerns are on contaminating any underground water, and which chemicals are pumped at high pressure to release shale gas. Coast Oil and Gas had said the plan for the Vale was still at the exploration stage and the firm had no intention of fracking in the near future. He said the potential in terms of energy security and local jobs was considerable. In July shadow UK energy minister Huw Irranca-Davies called for the UK government to embed shale gas in its wider energy policy. The Ogmore MP said with the decline in North Sea gas and the UK's increasing reliance on imported gas, it could have potential. He said if extracted properly, shale gas could be a source of cheap affordable gas and be part of the UK's low carbon future. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Vale of Glamorgan leader Gordon Kemp spoke after the council unanimously rejected an application for drilling at a site in Llandow. The council said Welsh Water concerns about pollution of its reserve groundwater sites swayed the decision. The Welsh government called for a UK government policy on shale gas. Bridgend-based Coastal Oil and Gas Limited has said it will appeal against the council's rejection on Thursday night. Mr Kemp told BBC Radio Wales: "There was a lot of public opposition to it and councillors took that into account. They also had concerns about the application itself. "The committee weren't satisfied the applicants had put enough information in regarding ground water supplies. "In any situation where there's doubt the decision to reject was probably the correct one." Mr Kemp said he had been keen throughout the application process to receive guidance from the Welsh government, and had written to the first minister. "This is not the best way of getting [the matter] considered by the assembly. It's an ad hoc thing as it were. It will be based on an appeal. I'd have preferred them to have made a decision themselves from day on on it." He denied that the council was out of its depth on the matter. "The difficulty is we have no proper guidance from the assembly on this. The assembly has... there are mineral policies but I don't think they cover a situation such as this. "This is why I have been calling both the assembly to determine matters such as this and also come up with some guidance." The Welsh government said there was a need to look at both the potential of gas exploration, but also concerns about the potential impacts of this form of gas extraction. "We would welcome the UK government working with devolved administrations across the UK to put in place a robust and evidence based policy framework for shale gas in the UK," said a spokesperson. 'Small risk' "The case for a moratorium on shale gas rests with the UK government, who are the licensing agents for exploration." In its letter Welsh Water said it believed there was "a very small risk" of contamination of its reserve groundwater sites from the proposed exploratory drilling. But it added: "If there is an excessive loss of drilling fluid to the aquifer during the drilling procedure due to unforeseen geological features being met, then this level of risk increases." Clifford Patten, planning consultant for Coastal Oil and Gas Limited, said he was "very surprised" that Welsh Water considered there could be a risk. "I was at a meeting with them on Monday where they said the only ground water interest they would have would be around... the Ewenny, Ogmore-by-Sea area. "Surface water is an issue for Environment Agency." Fracking The application was opposed by The Vale Says No campaign group whose members had campaigned in Barry, where the council met. The group had expressed concerns about an element of drilling for shale gas called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. It involves the high-pressure fracturing of rocks such as shale with a mixture of water, sand and chemicals. It is a process which has been condemned in several US states. In Europe, France has banned fracking after 100,000 people signed a petition, though the Polish government has been more supportive of using shale gas as an energy source. Investigated Campaigners from The Vale Says No had claimed that gas drilling, especially shale gas drilling, could be "potentially catastrophic" and would shatter the peace of a rural area. The side effects of fracking are still being investigated after two earth tremors near Blackpool last summer. Gas drilling in that part of Lancashire has been suspended. Concerns are on contaminating any underground water, and which chemicals are pumped at high pressure to release shale gas. Coast Oil and Gas had said the plan for the Vale was still at the exploration stage and the firm had no intention of fracking in the near future. He said the potential in terms of energy security and local jobs was considerable. In July shadow UK energy minister Huw Irranca-Davies called for the UK government to embed shale gas in its wider energy policy. The Ogmore MP said with the decline in North Sea gas and the UK's increasing reliance on imported gas, it could have potential. He said if extracted properly, shale gas could be a source of cheap affordable gas and be part of the UK's low carbon future. ### Summary: The Welsh government has said it would welcome the UK government working with devolved administrations across the UK to put in place a robust and evidence based policy framework for shale gas in the UK. ### Next steps The V

business-54104381

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-54104381

'I still spend so much time on the kids - that needs to change'

Sarah and Mahen are living in a two-bedroom apartment in Sydney.

Sarah was born in the UK and now lives in Sydney, having moved from Fiji for her children to be educated in Australia. Her husband Mahen is in Fiji, unable to travel due to the business and Covid-19 travel restrictions. Sarah and Mahen have barely seen each other during the last year. Sarah's daughter Sophie, 19, is at university while son Ganesh, 21, is taking a break from study and working long hours as a kitchen hand. They have a rescue dog called Libby and two cats called Susie and Jacey. Sarah has always been a stay-at-home mum while also helping Mahen with his shoe business. Now she is getting government assistance of A$530 (£300) a fortnight and looking for work. At the moment they have a six-month mortgage holiday due to Covid-19. Sarah says she doesn't know how she will manage when it ends. With the stress of Covid-19, separation, upset children and unsure income Sarah says her already shaky mental health has taken a bashing. She referred herself to an organisation called Flourish, run by Western Sydney Health. It is a support organisation designed to prevent people not fitting into the mental health system from falling through the cracks. Over to Sarah... My Mondays are always the same. It is Ganesh's only day off so I make time to be with him, doing whatever he needs. Today he is very tired from a bad work week so we do some shopping for his new den, then he takes the rest of the day to relax while I work out, do housework and cook whatever he likes for his one evening at home. I do my shopping at our local market, which is open Friday to Sunday. With Covid I have decreased my Aldi visit for pet food and non-perishables to every three weeks so we already have everything we need for the week. For breakfast I have muesli and a homemade cappuccino. Lunch is spicy chicken and potato soup made of leftovers. After lunch Sophie and I walk our dog Libby. Spring sprang last week, but the wind is a cold southerly this afternoon so we all hide in a sunny sheltered spot for chatting and doggy cuddles. Home for hot tea and homemade cake for all. I bake at least once a week, cheaper and tastier than bought. Ganesh and I make dinner, his choice of homemade hamburgers with a vinaigrette slaw of fennel, red capsicum, spring onions and carrot. I have a long video call with Mahen, then a comfortable evening with my book. I devour free e-books from the library. Total spend: A$0 My Money More blogs from the BBC's My Money Series: We're looking for more people to share what they spend their money on. If you're interested, please email my.money@bbc.co.uk or get in touch via our My Money (World) Facebook group, or if you live in the UK, please join our My Money (UK) Facebook group and we'll aim to contact you. Treat myself to reading the news in bed before feeding the animals. Use the cross trainer and eat breakfast of a chicken salad roll and cappuccino. I have to taxi Ganesh to work until his driving test (two more weeks!) as he worries about Covid on the bus. Sophie comes along to spend the last of her extra Covid youth allowance on a haircut - a treat as usually done at home - and an inner ear piercing. Have to rush to drop her home and pick up Libby to get to my Flourish meeting. Walk Libby with a case worker. Flourish has been an incredible safety net and makes a huge difference to me. We meet twice a week, setting and checking goals for me to improve my mental health. It is comforting, highly effective and free, for which I am profoundly grateful. Bed sheet changing, then a late dinner of lamb, last night's salad, couscous and herb dressing. A long chat with Mahen. Collect Ganesh, cook him beef and noodles then book and bed with the cats. Total spend: A$0 No workout this morning. Breakfast of chicken sandwich and homemade cappuccino. I forgot to fill the car last night (39 litres of diesel costs A$42.83, and usually lasts two weeks) so do that and head into the city. I have to select leather for shoe designs I drew for Mahen last week. It takes me all morning Skyping with Mahen to choose my two samples plus another 14 which should last him until Christmas. Fondling soft sheep skins is heaven, but I am dirty and tired from hauling cow hides so I take the quick toll road home. Tolls cost A$16.60 one way but the cost goes to Mahen's business. Dinner is chicken and kale Caesar salad. We eat lots of chicken - perk of Ganesh's job. Great, but I would rather he received a higher wage. Chat with mum, then collect Ganesh from work and Sophie from the gym before bed. Total spend: A$42.83 (£24.20) Treat breakfast of berries, custard apple, chocolate digestives and cappuccino. Cheered by the arrival of my new A$7 earrings ordered in June. Love buying from China - low prices and such slow post that it feels like a present when the goods arrive! Today is rubbish bins, and tomorrow is market day so I tidy, check and sort things to use, put away or dispose of. Start in the kitchen. Clear all produce from the fridge and cook any that's old. Update shopping lists, clean and organise. Cook stewed apple, spinach, a large pan of soffritto for future meals and microwaved strawberries. I apply for a post as a National Trust volunteer. Back for lunch of beef and veggie noodles to share with Ganesh (last of the beef and some soffritto). Continue through the house, tidying and sorting. It has reached 32C today (third day of spring) so the fan comes out of winter storage. Pay the phone bill - A$105 of which A$40 will be reclaimed from the kids so really A$65.00. Drop Ganesh at work and buy milk and jelly crystals (A$5.05) to make up with the strawberries and some Cointreau. Dinner is hummus, kale, chicken and roast capsicum on pitta. I chat with Mahen and my sister in the UK, then relax. A good day. Total spend: A$70.05 (£39.58) Up, a slice of toast with hummus, then drop Ganesh at work and hit the market. I finish just as it starts to rain. I buy meat, fruit and vegetables and two wholemeal loaves for A$78.07. I seem to have bought a lot of meat, including 2kg of chicken thighs for tandoori, but the kids constantly ask for meat. The kale and lettuce are whole plants, so I store them in a bowl of water by the window. I still have some veggies left from last week, and a loaf and flatbreads in the freezer. We finished the last cake, so I will bake coconut cake and lemon biscuits next week. Tomato sandwich, stewed apple, Greek yoghurt and honey for lunch. Then in the afternoon coffee and a yarn with my friend Jane - my turn to pay, A$9.60. Job applications for the rest of the day. An oven full of tandoori, so I eat some for dinner with lettuce, spinach raita and rice. Strawberry jelly, then Skype and binge watching Liziqi on YouTube with the animals. Total spend: A$87.67 (£49.54) Pleasant start to the morning, drinking cappuccino on the deck chatting with Mahen (though it was mainly work talk). The jasmine hedge is flowering and the scent is almost overpowering. We look at him coming home for Christmas, but at nearly A$10,000 with four weeks quarantine for two weeks at home it's a joke. Maybe things will improve. My homemade cappuccino has taken a while to perfect. Coffee bags come on special offer regularly, 28 bags for A$4.20. Make up one bag with one cup of hot water, add one teaspoon of instant and I get two coffees with real coffee flavour. Half a cup of hot full cream milk whizzed to a froth, topped off with coffee and powdered chocolate comes to about A$0.70, as opposed to A$4.60 for bought. I no longer crave cafe coffee, but can't help reflecting on being reduced to this! Feeling lonely and depressed, so I take Libby for a picnic and tell myself to grow up. Spend the rest of the day distracting myself. Ganesh finishes at 11:00pm so I stay up to collect him, then the kids fight. Love family life! Total spend: A$0 Not going to allow another bad day like yesterday. Father's Day today with no father around. I have a marinated veggie and hummus sandwich, and two coffees to prepare myself; then nag the kids into each mowing a lawn while I weed and sweep up. Feels like a major achievement! Reward myself with an extra long bush walk and a bar of chocolate. There is always a A$1 special offer at Woolworths, this week it's a Boost bar. Life these days is either special offers or go without. Dentist, hairdressers, new clothes - it is possible to manage without them all. It makes me laugh all this psychology nonsense about how women over 40 shouldn't have long hair. It's easy to seem confident and look good with a short cut if you can afford a stylist regularly. No way I'm trying that on myself! Total spend: A$1 (£0.56) Total spent this week: A$201.55 (£113.82) How does Sarah feel about her week? I watch every cent, and it has been an easy week to save. No big bills and I am up-to-date. Buying from the market means we eat very well for the money we spend. Unfortunately this is short-lived. Our bank gave us a six-month mortgage holiday when Covid-19 lockdown struck, but this winds back soon. I have squirrelled like mad but severe mortgage stress is about to start, with a A$1,800 (£1,016) monthly payment. Pressure is on for Mahen to send money back that he doesn't have. I am very grateful that we did have money at one stage. I have a lovely home surrounded by beautiful objects from my travels. But I am happy not to be caught up in a cycle of materialism and constant buying. Genteel poverty it may be, but there are worse ways to live. Seems strange to see my life written down. I realise just how much time I still spend on the kids. That needs to change. They are adults now and I need to work on being there for me instead. Next challenge!

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Sarah was born in the UK and now lives in Sydney, having moved from Fiji for her children to be educated in Australia. Her husband Mahen is in Fiji, unable to travel due to the business and Covid-19 travel restrictions. Sarah and Mahen have barely seen each other during the last year. Sarah's daughter Sophie, 19, is at university while son Ganesh, 21, is taking a break from study and working long hours as a kitchen hand. They have a rescue dog called Libby and two cats called Susie and Jacey. Sarah has always been a stay-at-home mum while also helping Mahen with his shoe business. Now she is getting government assistance of A$530 (£300) a fortnight and looking for work. At the moment they have a six-month mortgage holiday due to Covid-19. Sarah says she doesn't know how she will manage when it ends. With the stress of Covid-19, separation, upset children and unsure income Sarah says her already shaky mental health has taken a bashing. She referred herself to an organisation called Flourish, run by Western Sydney Health. It is a support organisation designed to prevent people not fitting into the mental health system from falling through the cracks. Over to Sarah... My Mondays are always the same. It is Ganesh's only day off so I make time to be with him, doing whatever he needs. Today he is very tired from a bad work week so we do some shopping for his new den, then he takes the rest of the day to relax while I work out, do housework and cook whatever he likes for his one evening at home. I do my shopping at our local market, which is open Friday to Sunday. With Covid I have decreased my Aldi visit for pet food and non-perishables to every three weeks so we already have everything we need for the week. For breakfast I have muesli and a homemade cappuccino. Lunch is spicy chicken and potato soup made of leftovers. After lunch Sophie and I walk our dog Libby. Spring sprang last week, but the wind is a cold southerly this afternoon so we all hide in a sunny sheltered spot for chatting and doggy cuddles. Home for hot tea and homemade cake for all. I bake at least once a week, cheaper and tastier than bought. Ganesh and I make dinner, his choice of homemade hamburgers with a vinaigrette slaw of fennel, red capsicum, spring onions and carrot. I have a long video call with Mahen, then a comfortable evening with my book. I devour free e-books from the library. Total spend: A$0 My Money More blogs from the BBC's My Money Series: We're looking for more people to share what they spend their money on. If you're interested, please email my.money@bbc.co.uk or get in touch via our My Money (World) Facebook group, or if you live in the UK, please join our My Money (UK) Facebook group and we'll aim to contact you. Treat myself to reading the news in bed before feeding the animals. Use the cross trainer and eat breakfast of a chicken salad roll and cappuccino. I have to taxi Ganesh to work until his driving test (two more weeks!) as he worries about Covid on the bus. Sophie comes along to spend the last of her extra Covid youth allowance on a haircut - a treat as usually done at home - and an inner ear piercing. Have to rush to drop her home and pick up Libby to get to my Flourish meeting. Walk Libby with a case worker. Flourish has been an incredible safety net and makes a huge difference to me. We meet twice a week, setting and checking goals for me to improve my mental health. It is comforting, highly effective and free, for which I am profoundly grateful. Bed sheet changing, then a late dinner of lamb, last night's salad, couscous and herb dressing. A long chat with Mahen. Collect Ganesh, cook him beef and noodles then book and bed with the cats. Total spend: A$0 No workout this morning. Breakfast of chicken sandwich and homemade cappuccino. I forgot to fill the car last night (39 litres of diesel costs A$42.83, and usually lasts two weeks) so do that and head into the city. I have to select leather for shoe designs I drew for Mahen last week. It takes me all morning Skyping with Mahen to choose my two samples plus another 14 which should last him until Christmas. Fondling soft sheep skins is heaven, but I am dirty and tired from hauling cow hides so I take the quick toll road home. Tolls cost A$16.60 one way but the cost goes to Mahen's business. Dinner is chicken and kale Caesar salad. We eat lots of chicken - perk of ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Sarah was born in the UK and now lives in Sydney, having moved from Fiji for her children to be educated in Australia. Her husband Mahen is in Fiji, unable to travel due to the business and Covid-19 travel restrictions. Sarah and Mahen have barely seen each other during the last year. Sarah's daughter Sophie, 19, is at university while son Ganesh, 21, is taking a break from study and working long hours as a kitchen hand. They have a rescue dog called Libby and two cats called Susie and Jacey. Sarah has always been a stay-at-home mum while also helping Mahen with his shoe business. Now she is getting government assistance of A$530 (£300) a fortnight and looking for work. At the moment they have a six-month mortgage holiday due to Covid-19. Sarah says she doesn't know how she will manage when it ends. With the stress of Covid-19, separation, upset children and unsure income Sarah says her already shaky mental health has taken a bashing. She referred herself to an organisation called Flourish, run by Western Sydney Health. It is a support organisation designed to prevent people not fitting into the mental health system from falling through the cracks. Over to Sarah... My Mondays are always the same. It is Ganesh's only day off so I make time to be with him, doing whatever he needs. Today he is very tired from a bad work week so we do some shopping for his new den, then he takes the rest of the day to relax while I work out, do housework and cook whatever he likes for his one evening at home. I do my shopping at our local market, which is open Friday to Sunday. With Covid I have decreased my Aldi visit for pet food and non-perishables to every three weeks so we already have everything we need for the week. For breakfast I have muesli and a homemade cappuccino. Lunch is spicy chicken and potato soup made of leftovers. After lunch Sophie and I walk our dog Libby. Spring sprang last week, but the wind is a cold southerly this afternoon so we all hide in a sunny sheltered spot for chatting and doggy cuddles. Home for hot tea and homemade cake for all. I bake at least once a week, cheaper and tastier than bought. Ganesh and I make dinner, his choice of homemade hamburgers with a vinaigrette slaw of fennel, red capsicum, spring onions and carrot. I have a long video call with Mahen, then a comfortable evening with my book. I devour free e-books from the library. Total spend: A$0 My Money More blogs from the BBC's My Money Series: We're looking for more people to share what they spend their money on. If you're interested, please email my.money@bbc.co.uk or get in touch via our My Money (World) Facebook group, or if you live in the UK, please join our My Money (UK) Facebook group and we'll aim to contact you. Treat myself to reading the news in bed before feeding the animals. Use the cross trainer and eat breakfast of a chicken salad roll and cappuccino. I have to taxi Ganesh to work until his driving test (two more weeks!) as he worries about Covid on the bus. Sophie comes along to spend the last of her extra Covid youth allowance on a haircut - a treat as usually done at home - and an inner ear piercing. Have to rush to drop her home and pick up Libby to get to my Flourish meeting. Walk Libby with a case worker. Flourish has been an incredible safety net and makes a huge difference to me. We meet twice a week, setting and checking goals for me to improve my mental health. It is comforting, highly effective and free, for which I am profoundly grateful. Bed sheet changing, then a late dinner of lamb, last night's salad, couscous and herb dressing. A long chat with Mahen. Collect Ganesh, cook him beef and noodles then book and bed with the cats. Total spend: A$0 No workout this morning. Breakfast of chicken sandwich and homemade cappuccino. I forgot to fill the car last night (39 litres of diesel costs A$42.83, and usually lasts two weeks) so do that and head into the city. I have to select leather for shoe designs I drew for Mahen last week. It takes me all morning Skyping with Mahen to choose my two samples plus another 14 which should last him until Christmas. Fondling soft sheep skins is heaven, but I am dirty and tired from hauling cow hides so I take the quick toll road home. Tolls cost A$16.60 one way but the cost goes to Mahen's business. Dinner is chicken and kale Caesar salad. We eat lots of chicken - perk of ### Summary: Sarah and Mahen are living in a two-bedroom apartment in Sydney. ### Next: I am a stay-at-home mum and I am looking for work. ### Next: I am

newsbeat-10001079

https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-10001079

U2 explain Spider-Man 'opera'

The band U2 have confirmed they will not appear in the Broadway musical Spider-Man.

By Greg CochraneNewsbeat music reporter Turn Off The Dark, the production the Dublin band has written music and lyrics for, is set to open on Broadway in New York in 2010. They also confirmed American actress Evan Rachel Wood would play the part of MJ and revealed more about the other characters. Speaking to Radio 1's Edith Bowman, Bono said: "We've got a new villain, it's a girl. It's a very extraordinary role. We've taken it to a much more dizzy place than you'd expect. We've got big tunes. We're very proud of it." More details Bono explained the characters won't be the same which appeared in comic or the film adaptations of the original Marvel comic series. "Our Peter Parker is much more…not Kurt Cobain, but a kind of slacker, a more kind of shy sort of guy," said Bono. "It touches on opera, it touches on rock 'n' roll. There are some real character driven songs as well, very unusual song types for us," explained guitarist The Edge. Not musical fans The guitarist was keen not to describe the production, directed by Julie Taymor, as a musical, but rather an "opera". "It is a new challenge. The thing is we don't really like musicals. Most musicals are really pants. They're really not very cool," said The Edge. "It is much more like opera than a straight musical. We're actually not calling it a musical for that reason because we don't want to put people off. "We just thought, 'Well if we're going to do this we should do something that knocks it out of the park and hits on every level with great tunes'." Evan Rachel Wood, previously star of films like Thirteen and The Wrestler, will play the role of MJ. "She's the greatest actor of her generation, she's the one to watch," said Bono. "She happens to sing like a bird, it's like a true voice. "She's a very pure spirit and a very bright mind and she brings the part of MJ to life really." Despite their involvement in the writing the band said they will not appear themselves. "We made one rule for ourselves though that we would never have Spider-Man singing. A guy singing in tights can't happen," joked The Edge. U2, who recently performed two nights at London's Wembley Stadium, are currently touring the UK with their 360° tour.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Greg CochraneNewsbeat music reporter Turn Off The Dark, the production the Dublin band has written music and lyrics for, is set to open on Broadway in New York in 2010. They also confirmed American actress Evan Rachel Wood would play the part of MJ and revealed more about the other characters. Speaking to Radio 1's Edith Bowman, Bono said: "We've got a new villain, it's a girl. It's a very extraordinary role. We've taken it to a much more dizzy place than you'd expect. We've got big tunes. We're very proud of it." More details Bono explained the characters won't be the same which appeared in comic or the film adaptations of the original Marvel comic series. "Our Peter Parker is much more…not Kurt Cobain, but a kind of slacker, a more kind of shy sort of guy," said Bono. "It touches on opera, it touches on rock 'n' roll. There are some real character driven songs as well, very unusual song types for us," explained guitarist The Edge. Not musical fans The guitarist was keen not to describe the production, directed by Julie Taymor, as a musical, but rather an "opera". "It is a new challenge. The thing is we don't really like musicals. Most musicals are really pants. They're really not very cool," said The Edge. "It is much more like opera than a straight musical. We're actually not calling it a musical for that reason because we don't want to put people off. "We just thought, 'Well if we're going to do this we should do something that knocks it out of the park and hits on every level with great tunes'." Evan Rachel Wood, previously star of films like Thirteen and The Wrestler, will play the role of MJ. "She's the greatest actor of her generation, she's the one to watch," said Bono. "She happens to sing like a bird, it's like a true voice. "She's a very pure spirit and a very bright mind and she brings the part of MJ to life really." Despite their involvement in the writing the band said they will not appear themselves. "We made one rule for ourselves though that we would never have Spider-Man singing. A guy singing in tights can't happen," joked The Edge. U2, who recently performed two nights at London's Wembley Stadium, are currently touring the UK with their 360° tour. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Greg CochraneNewsbeat music reporter Turn Off The Dark, the production the Dublin band has written music and lyrics for, is set to open on Broadway in New York in 2010. They also confirmed American actress Evan Rachel Wood would play the part of MJ and revealed more about the other characters. Speaking to Radio 1's Edith Bowman, Bono said: "We've got a new villain, it's a girl. It's a very extraordinary role. We've taken it to a much more dizzy place than you'd expect. We've got big tunes. We're very proud of it." More details Bono explained the characters won't be the same which appeared in comic or the film adaptations of the original Marvel comic series. "Our Peter Parker is much more…not Kurt Cobain, but a kind of slacker, a more kind of shy sort of guy," said Bono. "It touches on opera, it touches on rock 'n' roll. There are some real character driven songs as well, very unusual song types for us," explained guitarist The Edge. Not musical fans The guitarist was keen not to describe the production, directed by Julie Taymor, as a musical, but rather an "opera". "It is a new challenge. The thing is we don't really like musicals. Most musicals are really pants. They're really not very cool," said The Edge. "It is much more like opera than a straight musical. We're actually not calling it a musical for that reason because we don't want to put people off. "We just thought, 'Well if we're going to do this we should do something that knocks it out of the park and hits on every level with great tunes'." Evan Rachel Wood, previously star of films like Thirteen and The Wrestler, will play the role of MJ. "She's the greatest actor of her generation, she's the one to watch," said Bono. "She happens to sing like a bird, it's like a true voice. "She's a very pure spirit and a very bright mind and she brings the part of MJ to life really." Despite their involvement in the writing the band said they will not appear themselves. "We made one rule for ourselves though that we would never have Spider-Man singing. A guy singing in tights can't happen," joked The Edge. U2, who recently performed two nights at London's Wembley Stadium, are currently touring the UK with their 360° tour. ### Summary: The band U2 have confirmed they will not appear in the Broadway musical Spider-Man. ### Next: The band have confirmed they will not appear in the Broadway musical Spider-Man. ### Next: The band

world-us-canada-56302176

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56302176

Covid: California to open outdoor attractions in April

California has announced that it will reopen its theme parks and entertainment venues.

Outdoor sports and entertainment facilities will be permitted to reopen with limited attendance from 1 April, health officials said on Friday. Under the new rules, bookings will be restricted to local area residents and there will be a ban on indoor dining. California has seen a steady decline in coronavirus cases since mid-January. The state has so far recorded more than 53,000 Covid-related deaths. The US has seen almost twice as many deaths - 522,610 - as the next hardest-hit country, Brazil. In a statement on Friday, California's health secretary Mark Ghaly said it was the right time to reopen the state's outdoor attractions. "California can begin gradually and safely bringing back more activities, especially those that occur outdoors and where consistent masking is possible," he said. The news was welcomed by Disneyland's president Ken Potrock, who said the theme park was looking forward to receiving guests "with responsible Disney safety protocols already implemented around the world". Along with Disneyland, other attractions permitted to admit visitors include Magic Mountain and Universal Studios. Other outdoor venues such as ballparks and stadiums will also be able to accept a limited number of visitors. Capacity will be limited to between 15% and 35%, depending on each county's tier system for restrictions, health officials said.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Outdoor sports and entertainment facilities will be permitted to reopen with limited attendance from 1 April, health officials said on Friday. Under the new rules, bookings will be restricted to local area residents and there will be a ban on indoor dining. California has seen a steady decline in coronavirus cases since mid-January. The state has so far recorded more than 53,000 Covid-related deaths. The US has seen almost twice as many deaths - 522,610 - as the next hardest-hit country, Brazil. In a statement on Friday, California's health secretary Mark Ghaly said it was the right time to reopen the state's outdoor attractions. "California can begin gradually and safely bringing back more activities, especially those that occur outdoors and where consistent masking is possible," he said. The news was welcomed by Disneyland's president Ken Potrock, who said the theme park was looking forward to receiving guests "with responsible Disney safety protocols already implemented around the world". Along with Disneyland, other attractions permitted to admit visitors include Magic Mountain and Universal Studios. Other outdoor venues such as ballparks and stadiums will also be able to accept a limited number of visitors. Capacity will be limited to between 15% and 35%, depending on each county's tier system for restrictions, health officials said. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Outdoor sports and entertainment facilities will be permitted to reopen with limited attendance from 1 April, health officials said on Friday. Under the new rules, bookings will be restricted to local area residents and there will be a ban on indoor dining. California has seen a steady decline in coronavirus cases since mid-January. The state has so far recorded more than 53,000 Covid-related deaths. The US has seen almost twice as many deaths - 522,610 - as the next hardest-hit country, Brazil. In a statement on Friday, California's health secretary Mark Ghaly said it was the right time to reopen the state's outdoor attractions. "California can begin gradually and safely bringing back more activities, especially those that occur outdoors and where consistent masking is possible," he said. The news was welcomed by Disneyland's president Ken Potrock, who said the theme park was looking forward to receiving guests "with responsible Disney safety protocols already implemented around the world". Along with Disneyland, other attractions permitted to admit visitors include Magic Mountain and Universal Studios. Other outdoor venues such as ballparks and stadiums will also be able to accept a limited number of visitors. Capacity will be limited to between 15% and 35%, depending on each county's tier system for restrictions, health officials said. ### Summary: California has announced that it will reopen its theme parks and entertainment venues. ### Text: California has announced that it will reopen its theme parks and entertainment venues. ### Summary:

uk-england-somerset-33730969

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-somerset-33730969

MP wants 'urgent' safety improvements to A303 at Ilminster

A man has died after a crash on the A303 at Ilminster.

Marcus Fysh, MP for Yeovil, said he had asked the Department for Transport to undertake an "urgent review" of the safety aspects of the A303 Ilminster bypass. He said: "The recent spate of tragic accidents has made that a necessity." The government has committed to making the A303 a dual carriageway, but work is not expected to begin until 2017. Mr Fysh said that interim safety improvements on the road could include average speed cameras or a barrier. Highways England said it was "constantly reviewing" the safety of all of its roads by analysing collision data provided by the police. However, it said the A303 at Ilminster had had fewer collisions per hundred million vehicle miles than other single-carriageway stretches of the road. A 27-year-old woman died following a crash on the road on 7 July, and a 43-year-old woman died in another accident on 15 July.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Marcus Fysh, MP for Yeovil, said he had asked the Department for Transport to undertake an "urgent review" of the safety aspects of the A303 Ilminster bypass. He said: "The recent spate of tragic accidents has made that a necessity." The government has committed to making the A303 a dual carriageway, but work is not expected to begin until 2017. Mr Fysh said that interim safety improvements on the road could include average speed cameras or a barrier. Highways England said it was "constantly reviewing" the safety of all of its roads by analysing collision data provided by the police. However, it said the A303 at Ilminster had had fewer collisions per hundred million vehicle miles than other single-carriageway stretches of the road. A 27-year-old woman died following a crash on the road on 7 July, and a 43-year-old woman died in another accident on 15 July. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Marcus Fysh, MP for Yeovil, said he had asked the Department for Transport to undertake an "urgent review" of the safety aspects of the A303 Ilminster bypass. He said: "The recent spate of tragic accidents has made that a necessity." The government has committed to making the A303 a dual carriageway, but work is not expected to begin until 2017. Mr Fysh said that interim safety improvements on the road could include average speed cameras or a barrier. Highways England said it was "constantly reviewing" the safety of all of its roads by analysing collision data provided by the police. However, it said the A303 at Ilminster had had fewer collisions per hundred million vehicle miles than other single-carriageway stretches of the road. A 27-year-old woman died following a crash on the road on 7 July, and a 43-year-old woman died in another accident on 15 July. ### Summary: A man has died after a crash on the A303 at Ilminster. ### Text: A man has died after a crash on the A303 at Ilminster. ### Summary:

uk-england-berkshire-48736687

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-berkshire-48736687

Eisenhower D-Day trip re-enacted to Berkshire

A convoy of veterans has been sent off from Hampshire to the Greenham Common airfield in Berkshire.

The Drive To Remember event on Saturday saw 60 classic vehicles retracing the general's journey from Hampshire to the Greenham Common airfield in Berkshire. Organisers said it was a means of remembering fallen servicemen. Marion Loveland, a veteran Wren who waved the convoy off, said "the memories came flooding back". Ms Loveland, who was Third Officer and assistant to the commodore during D-day, added: "Today the veterans here are few and far between, but the people who are remembering the 75th anniversary of D-Day are very commendable. "They really believed in what they were doing, and I'm sure this will make other people remember when they see them. "It brings it to the notice of the younger generation who are very interested in the Second World War. "I knew that D-Day was very important and that the outcome would change everything, so it was with fear and trembling that we looked to it." Ms Loveland said she lost her fiancé on D-Day on Sword Beach. General Eisenhower was appointed commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces for Operation Overlord in late 1943. On 5 June 1944, the day before the seaborne landing, he set off from his military base at Southwick Park to give encouragement to the troops heading to Normandy. Convoy leader Michael Burne, from the Military Vehicle Trust, said it was important to remember the "extraordinary" planning. He said Eisenhower wanted to talk to the airborne troops "that were going to be the spearhead of the landing because he knew it would be a fairly difficult time". "Many wouldn't survive," he said.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Drive To Remember event on Saturday saw 60 classic vehicles retracing the general's journey from Hampshire to the Greenham Common airfield in Berkshire. Organisers said it was a means of remembering fallen servicemen. Marion Loveland, a veteran Wren who waved the convoy off, said "the memories came flooding back". Ms Loveland, who was Third Officer and assistant to the commodore during D-day, added: "Today the veterans here are few and far between, but the people who are remembering the 75th anniversary of D-Day are very commendable. "They really believed in what they were doing, and I'm sure this will make other people remember when they see them. "It brings it to the notice of the younger generation who are very interested in the Second World War. "I knew that D-Day was very important and that the outcome would change everything, so it was with fear and trembling that we looked to it." Ms Loveland said she lost her fiancé on D-Day on Sword Beach. General Eisenhower was appointed commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces for Operation Overlord in late 1943. On 5 June 1944, the day before the seaborne landing, he set off from his military base at Southwick Park to give encouragement to the troops heading to Normandy. Convoy leader Michael Burne, from the Military Vehicle Trust, said it was important to remember the "extraordinary" planning. He said Eisenhower wanted to talk to the airborne troops "that were going to be the spearhead of the landing because he knew it would be a fairly difficult time". "Many wouldn't survive," he said. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Drive To Remember event on Saturday saw 60 classic vehicles retracing the general's journey from Hampshire to the Greenham Common airfield in Berkshire. Organisers said it was a means of remembering fallen servicemen. Marion Loveland, a veteran Wren who waved the convoy off, said "the memories came flooding back". Ms Loveland, who was Third Officer and assistant to the commodore during D-day, added: "Today the veterans here are few and far between, but the people who are remembering the 75th anniversary of D-Day are very commendable. "They really believed in what they were doing, and I'm sure this will make other people remember when they see them. "It brings it to the notice of the younger generation who are very interested in the Second World War. "I knew that D-Day was very important and that the outcome would change everything, so it was with fear and trembling that we looked to it." Ms Loveland said she lost her fiancé on D-Day on Sword Beach. General Eisenhower was appointed commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces for Operation Overlord in late 1943. On 5 June 1944, the day before the seaborne landing, he set off from his military base at Southwick Park to give encouragement to the troops heading to Normandy. Convoy leader Michael Burne, from the Military Vehicle Trust, said it was important to remember the "extraordinary" planning. He said Eisenhower wanted to talk to the airborne troops "that were going to be the spearhead of the landing because he knew it would be a fairly difficult time". "Many wouldn't survive," he said. ### Summary: A convoy of veterans has been sent off from Hampshire to the Greenham Common airfield in Berkshire. ### Text: A convoy of veterans has been sent off from Hampshire to the Greenham Common

uk-england-london-50330487

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-50330487

Jodie Chesney murder: Svenson Ong-a-Kwie and 17-year-old boy guilty

A teenager who stabbed a girl to death in Harold Hill has been found guilty of murder.

Jodie was stabbed in the back in a case of mistaken identity as she socialised with friends in Harold Hill on 1 March. Drug dealer Svenson Ong-a-Kwie, 19, and a 17-year-old boy were both convicted of murder following an eight-week trial at the Old Bailey. Manuel Petrovic, 20, of Romford, and a 16-year-old boy were both cleared of murder and manslaughter. The jury spent less than six hours deliberating their verdicts on all four defendants. Judge Wendy Joseph QC said Ong-a-Kwie and the 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, would be sentenced on 18 November. Following the guilty verdicts, Det Ch Insp Dave Whellams, of Scotland Yard, said the murder of "girl next door" Jodie had "shocked a nation". He added: "It could have been anybody's daughter. She was a very nice girl, she had a small circle of friends, she did well at school, worked in the community. "They have gone there purposefully to stab somebody and they have not cared who they stabbed. They stabbed a 17-year-old girl in the back for no reason." Throughout the trial it was never disputed that Ong-a-Kwie and the teenager were the two people who went into Amy's Park on the night Jodie was stabbed. The pair blamed each other for the stabbing, while Ong-a-Kwie admitted burning his clothes with a cigarette lighter. Jurors heard Jodie had her back to her attackers and the knife almost passed right through her body. After being stabbed the teenager screamed and fell into the arms of her boyfriend Eddie Coyle, the court was told. Frantic efforts were made to save her but she was pronounced dead in a petrol station in Gants Hill about an hour later. Following the verdict, Peter Chesney said his daughter's murder had "destroyed my life". "I have no idea how I am going to continue with my life or even come to terms with the loss," he said. Jodie's sister Lucy wrote in a victim impact statement that she had been "dreading my life rather than looking forward to it" following the 17-year-old's death. "Jodie was not only my sister she was my best friend. Losing her is like losing half of myself." She added that she was now "anxious about everything" as "if someone as good and pure as Jodie could be murdered, it could happen to anyone and I spend everywhere I go looking over my shoulder because of it". Prosecutor Crispin Aylett QC told the jury Jodie was "a victim of a brutal act of unprovoked violence". He described the girl's death as "another example" of the "terrible consequences of the carrying and using of knives". "It seems every day now in our city another young life is lost to a knife," he said. During his evidence, Mr Petrovic admitted driving the group to Harold Hill but denied any knowledge of what happened in Amy's Park. He told jurors he was "glad he was arrested because he had nothing to hide".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Jodie was stabbed in the back in a case of mistaken identity as she socialised with friends in Harold Hill on 1 March. Drug dealer Svenson Ong-a-Kwie, 19, and a 17-year-old boy were both convicted of murder following an eight-week trial at the Old Bailey. Manuel Petrovic, 20, of Romford, and a 16-year-old boy were both cleared of murder and manslaughter. The jury spent less than six hours deliberating their verdicts on all four defendants. Judge Wendy Joseph QC said Ong-a-Kwie and the 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, would be sentenced on 18 November. Following the guilty verdicts, Det Ch Insp Dave Whellams, of Scotland Yard, said the murder of "girl next door" Jodie had "shocked a nation". He added: "It could have been anybody's daughter. She was a very nice girl, she had a small circle of friends, she did well at school, worked in the community. "They have gone there purposefully to stab somebody and they have not cared who they stabbed. They stabbed a 17-year-old girl in the back for no reason." Throughout the trial it was never disputed that Ong-a-Kwie and the teenager were the two people who went into Amy's Park on the night Jodie was stabbed. The pair blamed each other for the stabbing, while Ong-a-Kwie admitted burning his clothes with a cigarette lighter. Jurors heard Jodie had her back to her attackers and the knife almost passed right through her body. After being stabbed the teenager screamed and fell into the arms of her boyfriend Eddie Coyle, the court was told. Frantic efforts were made to save her but she was pronounced dead in a petrol station in Gants Hill about an hour later. Following the verdict, Peter Chesney said his daughter's murder had "destroyed my life". "I have no idea how I am going to continue with my life or even come to terms with the loss," he said. Jodie's sister Lucy wrote in a victim impact statement that she had been "dreading my life rather than looking forward to it" following the 17-year-old's death. "Jodie was not only my sister she was my best friend. Losing her is like losing half of myself." She added that she was now "anxious about everything" as "if someone as good and pure as Jodie could be murdered, it could happen to anyone and I spend everywhere I go looking over my shoulder because of it". Prosecutor Crispin Aylett QC told the jury Jodie was "a victim of a brutal act of unprovoked violence". He described the girl's death as "another example" of the "terrible consequences of the carrying and using of knives". "It seems every day now in our city another young life is lost to a knife," he said. During his evidence, Mr Petrovic admitted driving the group to Harold Hill but denied any knowledge of what happened in Amy's Park. He told jurors he was "glad he was arrested because he had nothing to hide". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Jodie was stabbed in the back in a case of mistaken identity as she socialised with friends in Harold Hill on 1 March. Drug dealer Svenson Ong-a-Kwie, 19, and a 17-year-old boy were both convicted of murder following an eight-week trial at the Old Bailey. Manuel Petrovic, 20, of Romford, and a 16-year-old boy were both cleared of murder and manslaughter. The jury spent less than six hours deliberating their verdicts on all four defendants. Judge Wendy Joseph QC said Ong-a-Kwie and the 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, would be sentenced on 18 November. Following the guilty verdicts, Det Ch Insp Dave Whellams, of Scotland Yard, said the murder of "girl next door" Jodie had "shocked a nation". He added: "It could have been anybody's daughter. She was a very nice girl, she had a small circle of friends, she did well at school, worked in the community. "They have gone there purposefully to stab somebody and they have not cared who they stabbed. They stabbed a 17-year-old girl in the back for no reason." Throughout the trial it was never disputed that Ong-a-Kwie and the teenager were the two people who went into Amy's Park on the night Jodie was stabbed. The pair blamed each other for the stabbing, while Ong-a-Kwie admitted burning his clothes with a cigarette lighter. Jurors heard Jodie had her back to her attackers and the knife almost passed right through her body. After being stabbed the teenager screamed and fell into the arms of her boyfriend Eddie Coyle, the court was told. Frantic efforts were made to save her but she was pronounced dead in a petrol station in Gants Hill about an hour later. Following the verdict, Peter Chesney said his daughter's murder had "destroyed my life". "I have no idea how I am going to continue with my life or even come to terms with the loss," he said. Jodie's sister Lucy wrote in a victim impact statement that she had been "dreading my life rather than looking forward to it" following the 17-year-old's death. "Jodie was not only my sister she was my best friend. Losing her is like losing half of myself." She added that she was now "anxious about everything" as "if someone as good and pure as Jodie could be murdered, it could happen to anyone and I spend everywhere I go looking over my shoulder because of it". Prosecutor Crispin Aylett QC told the jury Jodie was "a victim of a brutal act of unprovoked violence". He described the girl's death as "another example" of the "terrible consequences of the carrying and using of knives". "It seems every day now in our city another young life is lost to a knife," he said. During his evidence, Mr Petrovic admitted driving the group to Harold Hill but denied any knowledge of what happened in Amy's Park. He told jurors he was "glad he was arrested because he had nothing to hide". ### Summary: A teenager who stabbed a girl to death in Harold Hill has been found guilty of murder. ### Text: A teenager who stabbed a girl to death in Harold Hill has been found guilty of murder

uk-england-manchester-48736299

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-manchester-48736299

Car smashes into Greenacres Cemetery headstones

A car has been abandoned at a cemetery in Oldham.

Headstones and memorial crosses were damaged at Greenacres Cemetery in Oldham on Friday. Oldham Council posted a photograph on social media of the Audi car that was abandoned at the scene. The authority said police were investigating and it would carry out any repairs to damage as quickly as possible. Councillor Ateeque Ur-Rehman, cabinet member for neighbourhoods services, said: "This is a reckless, shocking and appalling incident and shows a complete lack of respect for our community, the deceased and their loved ones. "I know our dedicated team of officers who look after the area will be devastated as I'm sure many residents will be." Many Oldham residents took to Facebook and Twitter to share their disgust over the attack. Posting under the council's official statement on Facebook, Tracey Mansfield said: "This is so shocking and saddening in equal measure. "My partner's parents are at rest here and it really is a lovely cemetery to just go and sit when you need to. "Why someone would do this just beggars belief. "My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends whose loved ones graves have been damaged." You may also be interested in:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Headstones and memorial crosses were damaged at Greenacres Cemetery in Oldham on Friday. Oldham Council posted a photograph on social media of the Audi car that was abandoned at the scene. The authority said police were investigating and it would carry out any repairs to damage as quickly as possible. Councillor Ateeque Ur-Rehman, cabinet member for neighbourhoods services, said: "This is a reckless, shocking and appalling incident and shows a complete lack of respect for our community, the deceased and their loved ones. "I know our dedicated team of officers who look after the area will be devastated as I'm sure many residents will be." Many Oldham residents took to Facebook and Twitter to share their disgust over the attack. Posting under the council's official statement on Facebook, Tracey Mansfield said: "This is so shocking and saddening in equal measure. "My partner's parents are at rest here and it really is a lovely cemetery to just go and sit when you need to. "Why someone would do this just beggars belief. "My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends whose loved ones graves have been damaged." You may also be interested in: ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Headstones and memorial crosses were damaged at Greenacres Cemetery in Oldham on Friday. Oldham Council posted a photograph on social media of the Audi car that was abandoned at the scene. The authority said police were investigating and it would carry out any repairs to damage as quickly as possible. Councillor Ateeque Ur-Rehman, cabinet member for neighbourhoods services, said: "This is a reckless, shocking and appalling incident and shows a complete lack of respect for our community, the deceased and their loved ones. "I know our dedicated team of officers who look after the area will be devastated as I'm sure many residents will be." Many Oldham residents took to Facebook and Twitter to share their disgust over the attack. Posting under the council's official statement on Facebook, Tracey Mansfield said: "This is so shocking and saddening in equal measure. "My partner's parents are at rest here and it really is a lovely cemetery to just go and sit when you need to. "Why someone would do this just beggars belief. "My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends whose loved ones graves have been damaged." You may also be interested in: ### Summary: A car has been abandoned at a cemetery in Oldham. ### Next steps: The council has said it will carry out any repairs to damage as quickly as possible. ### In this next story: A

world-us-canada-45133847

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45133847

Canadians rescued from flooding elevator describe ordeal

A man and a woman have been rescued from a flooded elevator in Toronto.

Klever Freire and Gabriel Otrin spoke to media about what it was like to fight the rising water in the moments before police rescued them. By the time police officers arrived, there was just one foot (30cm) of air space left in the elevator. "I'm not sure how much time we had left in there," Mr Freire said. Toronto was hit by tropical-like storms on Tuesday evening, with nearly 60 millilitres of rain pouring down in some parts in a matter of hours. Mr Friere said he had heard the garage of his office building was flooding, so he took the elevator to check on his car. Mr Otrin joined him. But when they approached the lower level the elevator began to fill with putrid-smelling water. The water quickly reached their waists, covering the emergency speaker and shorting the electricity so the buttons would not work. "I prayed about it," Mr Otrin told CBC on Wednesday. "I was able to remain calm as a result because I knew God would save us." With no cell reception in the cramped compartment, Mr Otrin and Mr Friere began punching the hard ceiling of the elevator to open the shaft. It took so much effort that both men suffered cuts and bruises on their knuckles, but they were able to hold an arm into the shaft to use Mr Otrin's cell phone and dial emergency services. "We climbed the handrails, but then we actually ended up breaking them off because in order to get enough leverage to start forcing the panel up we broke the handrails off," Mr Friere told CTV News. "So that became a little bit more dangerous to keep the phone above water so that we could continue trying to get reception." By the time Const Ryan Barnett and Const Josh McSweeney arrived minutes later, the basement was filled water and police had to swim to the elevator, where they pried the doors open with a crowbar. Const McSweeney said the men "might have had about five or 10 more minutes" left, as there was only about one foot left of air left in the elevator. "I went to bed, I couldn't sleep. I was very excited and happy. You get to save a couple of people's' lives. It's what we do this job for," Const. Barnett told CTV. "I'm sure any other officers who got the call would've done the exact same thing."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Klever Freire and Gabriel Otrin spoke to media about what it was like to fight the rising water in the moments before police rescued them. By the time police officers arrived, there was just one foot (30cm) of air space left in the elevator. "I'm not sure how much time we had left in there," Mr Freire said. Toronto was hit by tropical-like storms on Tuesday evening, with nearly 60 millilitres of rain pouring down in some parts in a matter of hours. Mr Friere said he had heard the garage of his office building was flooding, so he took the elevator to check on his car. Mr Otrin joined him. But when they approached the lower level the elevator began to fill with putrid-smelling water. The water quickly reached their waists, covering the emergency speaker and shorting the electricity so the buttons would not work. "I prayed about it," Mr Otrin told CBC on Wednesday. "I was able to remain calm as a result because I knew God would save us." With no cell reception in the cramped compartment, Mr Otrin and Mr Friere began punching the hard ceiling of the elevator to open the shaft. It took so much effort that both men suffered cuts and bruises on their knuckles, but they were able to hold an arm into the shaft to use Mr Otrin's cell phone and dial emergency services. "We climbed the handrails, but then we actually ended up breaking them off because in order to get enough leverage to start forcing the panel up we broke the handrails off," Mr Friere told CTV News. "So that became a little bit more dangerous to keep the phone above water so that we could continue trying to get reception." By the time Const Ryan Barnett and Const Josh McSweeney arrived minutes later, the basement was filled water and police had to swim to the elevator, where they pried the doors open with a crowbar. Const McSweeney said the men "might have had about five or 10 more minutes" left, as there was only about one foot left of air left in the elevator. "I went to bed, I couldn't sleep. I was very excited and happy. You get to save a couple of people's' lives. It's what we do this job for," Const. Barnett told CTV. "I'm sure any other officers who got the call would've done the exact same thing." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Klever Freire and Gabriel Otrin spoke to media about what it was like to fight the rising water in the moments before police rescued them. By the time police officers arrived, there was just one foot (30cm) of air space left in the elevator. "I'm not sure how much time we had left in there," Mr Freire said. Toronto was hit by tropical-like storms on Tuesday evening, with nearly 60 millilitres of rain pouring down in some parts in a matter of hours. Mr Friere said he had heard the garage of his office building was flooding, so he took the elevator to check on his car. Mr Otrin joined him. But when they approached the lower level the elevator began to fill with putrid-smelling water. The water quickly reached their waists, covering the emergency speaker and shorting the electricity so the buttons would not work. "I prayed about it," Mr Otrin told CBC on Wednesday. "I was able to remain calm as a result because I knew God would save us." With no cell reception in the cramped compartment, Mr Otrin and Mr Friere began punching the hard ceiling of the elevator to open the shaft. It took so much effort that both men suffered cuts and bruises on their knuckles, but they were able to hold an arm into the shaft to use Mr Otrin's cell phone and dial emergency services. "We climbed the handrails, but then we actually ended up breaking them off because in order to get enough leverage to start forcing the panel up we broke the handrails off," Mr Friere told CTV News. "So that became a little bit more dangerous to keep the phone above water so that we could continue trying to get reception." By the time Const Ryan Barnett and Const Josh McSweeney arrived minutes later, the basement was filled water and police had to swim to the elevator, where they pried the doors open with a crowbar. Const McSweeney said the men "might have had about five or 10 more minutes" left, as there was only about one foot left of air left in the elevator. "I went to bed, I couldn't sleep. I was very excited and happy. You get to save a couple of people's' lives. It's what we do this job for," Const. Barnett told CTV. "I'm sure any other officers who got the call would've done the exact same thing." ### Summary: A man and a woman have been rescued from a flooded elevator in Toronto. ### Source: By Mike CochraneBBC News Toronto has been hit by tropical-like storms on Tuesday evening.

education-55721680

https://www.bbc.com/news/education-55721680

Schools may reopen region by region, says medical adviser

The government should consider opening schools after the February half-term holiday, a committee chairman has said.

By Hannah RichardsonEducation and social affairs reporter Speaking to the Commons education committee, Dr Harries suggested there would be different rates of infection across the country when lockdown ends. This would mean a "differential application" of restrictive measures would be required, she said. Schools were closed at the start of January to stem the spread of Covid-19. Although schools remain open to vulnerable children and those of keyworkers, all others are due to learn remotely from home until after the February half term holiday. But the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has suggested they may not return fully then. A Department for Education spokesperson said the department was continuing to keep plans for the return to school under review and that it would inform schools, parents and pupils of the plans ahead of February half term. Committee chairman Robert Halfon said he suspected schools would be closed for quite "a few weeks yet", but there has been no formal confirmation of this. Medical and science advisers were warning the government before Christmas that the NHS would not be able to manage the number of Covid-19 cases if schools remained open. 'Uneven spread' The new, more transmissible variant of the virus had been increasing exponentially in London and the south-east before Christmas. But in some parts of the north and north-east saw rates of increase were reducing. Dr Harries said: "It is highly likely that when we come out of this national lockdown we will not have consistent patterns of infection in our communities across the country. "And therefore, as we had prior to the national lockdown, it may well be possible that we need to have some differential application." But Dr Harries said schools would be at the top of the priority to ensure that the balance of education and wellbeing were "right at the forefront" of consideration. Vaccination call Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: "Although the government intends that schools will fully reopen after the February half-term holiday, it is clearly in the balance when this happens and whether there will be any sort of regional approach. "We expect that it will depend on coronavirus infection rates and the pressure on the NHS, and that the government will make a call on this issue nearer the time. "What is important is that when schools fully reopen, everything possible is done to keep them open and to keep disruption to a minimum. "This is why we are calling for education staff to be prioritised for vaccinations as soon as possible, and for schools to be given more support in the use of rapid turnaround mass testing." 'Clarity needed' Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said if the government was planning to stagger opening of schools by region, it needed to "provide clarity sooner rather than later". "This will give vital time to prepare for a smoother reopening of schools and business," he said. On calls for vaccination of teachers, Dr Harries suggested the safe re-opening of schools did not depend on this. But members of the committee suggested education would be less disrupted by teachers needing to go home and isolate when infected. The vaccination programme had been worked out in order of vulnerability to the disease, she stressed. And Dr Harries added that although pupils could and did transmit the virus, she did not have evidence of them being "a significant driver" of "large-scale community infections".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Hannah RichardsonEducation and social affairs reporter Speaking to the Commons education committee, Dr Harries suggested there would be different rates of infection across the country when lockdown ends. This would mean a "differential application" of restrictive measures would be required, she said. Schools were closed at the start of January to stem the spread of Covid-19. Although schools remain open to vulnerable children and those of keyworkers, all others are due to learn remotely from home until after the February half term holiday. But the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has suggested they may not return fully then. A Department for Education spokesperson said the department was continuing to keep plans for the return to school under review and that it would inform schools, parents and pupils of the plans ahead of February half term. Committee chairman Robert Halfon said he suspected schools would be closed for quite "a few weeks yet", but there has been no formal confirmation of this. Medical and science advisers were warning the government before Christmas that the NHS would not be able to manage the number of Covid-19 cases if schools remained open. 'Uneven spread' The new, more transmissible variant of the virus had been increasing exponentially in London and the south-east before Christmas. But in some parts of the north and north-east saw rates of increase were reducing. Dr Harries said: "It is highly likely that when we come out of this national lockdown we will not have consistent patterns of infection in our communities across the country. "And therefore, as we had prior to the national lockdown, it may well be possible that we need to have some differential application." But Dr Harries said schools would be at the top of the priority to ensure that the balance of education and wellbeing were "right at the forefront" of consideration. Vaccination call Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: "Although the government intends that schools will fully reopen after the February half-term holiday, it is clearly in the balance when this happens and whether there will be any sort of regional approach. "We expect that it will depend on coronavirus infection rates and the pressure on the NHS, and that the government will make a call on this issue nearer the time. "What is important is that when schools fully reopen, everything possible is done to keep them open and to keep disruption to a minimum. "This is why we are calling for education staff to be prioritised for vaccinations as soon as possible, and for schools to be given more support in the use of rapid turnaround mass testing." 'Clarity needed' Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said if the government was planning to stagger opening of schools by region, it needed to "provide clarity sooner rather than later". "This will give vital time to prepare for a smoother reopening of schools and business," he said. On calls for vaccination of teachers, Dr Harries suggested the safe re-opening of schools did not depend on this. But members of the committee suggested education would be less disrupted by teachers needing to go home and isolate when infected. The vaccination programme had been worked out in order of vulnerability to the disease, she stressed. And Dr Harries added that although pupils could and did transmit the virus, she did not have evidence of them being "a significant driver" of "large-scale community infections". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Hannah RichardsonEducation and social affairs reporter Speaking to the Commons education committee, Dr Harries suggested there would be different rates of infection across the country when lockdown ends. This would mean a "differential application" of restrictive measures would be required, she said. Schools were closed at the start of January to stem the spread of Covid-19. Although schools remain open to vulnerable children and those of keyworkers, all others are due to learn remotely from home until after the February half term holiday. But the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has suggested they may not return fully then. A Department for Education spokesperson said the department was continuing to keep plans for the return to school under review and that it would inform schools, parents and pupils of the plans ahead of February half term. Committee chairman Robert Halfon said he suspected schools would be closed for quite "a few weeks yet", but there has been no formal confirmation of this. Medical and science advisers were warning the government before Christmas that the NHS would not be able to manage the number of Covid-19 cases if schools remained open. 'Uneven spread' The new, more transmissible variant of the virus had been increasing exponentially in London and the south-east before Christmas. But in some parts of the north and north-east saw rates of increase were reducing. Dr Harries said: "It is highly likely that when we come out of this national lockdown we will not have consistent patterns of infection in our communities across the country. "And therefore, as we had prior to the national lockdown, it may well be possible that we need to have some differential application." But Dr Harries said schools would be at the top of the priority to ensure that the balance of education and wellbeing were "right at the forefront" of consideration. Vaccination call Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: "Although the government intends that schools will fully reopen after the February half-term holiday, it is clearly in the balance when this happens and whether there will be any sort of regional approach. "We expect that it will depend on coronavirus infection rates and the pressure on the NHS, and that the government will make a call on this issue nearer the time. "What is important is that when schools fully reopen, everything possible is done to keep them open and to keep disruption to a minimum. "This is why we are calling for education staff to be prioritised for vaccinations as soon as possible, and for schools to be given more support in the use of rapid turnaround mass testing." 'Clarity needed' Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said if the government was planning to stagger opening of schools by region, it needed to "provide clarity sooner rather than later". "This will give vital time to prepare for a smoother reopening of schools and business," he said. On calls for vaccination of teachers, Dr Harries suggested the safe re-opening of schools did not depend on this. But members of the committee suggested education would be less disrupted by teachers needing to go home and isolate when infected. The vaccination programme had been worked out in order of vulnerability to the disease, she stressed. And Dr Harries added that although pupils could and did transmit the virus, she did not have evidence of them being "a significant driver" of "large-scale community infections". ### Summary: The government should consider opening schools after the February half-term holiday, a committee chairman has said. ### Spelling and grammar The government should consider opening schools after the February half-term holiday, a committee chairman has said

technology-16700913

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-16700913

Star Wars crowdsourced film reaches million YouTube views

A new film has been released on YouTube.

The film, uploaded on 18 January, is made up of hundreds of 15-second scenes created by internet users. The Star Wars Uncut project is widely regarded as an example of the power of crowdsourcing. Ramon Youseph, of the Crowdsourcing Gazette blog, told the BBC it showed "the power of the web to engage people in a global collaborative effort". The website starwarsuncut.com began asking for fan-made scenes in 2009. It went on to win an interactive media Emmy in 2010. Scenessubmitted to Starwarsuncut.comwere specially selected for this compilation. Although the clips had been available online previously, this is the first time they have been put together into a full-length film. Writing online, the project's creator Casey Pugh said: "Finally, the crowdsourced project has been stitched together and put online for your streaming pleasure. "The director's cut is a feature-length film that contains hand-picked scenes from the entire starwarsuncut.com collection." Thenew version of the film quickly became a YouTube hit. "1M views in 72hrs! Thanks everyone for all the wonderful feedback," tweeted the @starwarsuncut account. The film is alsoavailable on Vimeowhere it has been played nearly 300,000 times. Copyright Jeff Howe, author of the book Crowdsourcing, said the project's success shows the public can have a role in movie-making: "The trick, of course, is not simply to stitch together disparate footage from many minds (and cameras), but to make it entertaining, compelling, etc." He added that the project had "provided clear guidelines by cutting the original film into 15-second bits. What few people understand is that crowdsourcing is not some free-for-all. "The rules are actually more important than they might be in a more traditional methodology." The 400-plus scenes in the film, which were edited together by Aaron Valdez and Bryan Pugh, are an eclectic mix of live-action, animation and puppetry. Actors of all ages, and in some cases species, appear in the scenes. Influences range from Yellow Submarine to Ingmar Bergman's Seventh Seal. A bewildering variety of household goods are enlisted as substitutes for the original film's ground-breaking special effects and props. In one scene a fly-swat has an unexpected cameo as Luke's lightsaber. Locations vary, with efforts to faithfully recreate the original sets sitting side-by-side with homes, suburban streets, bowling alleys and, in one case, a hot tub. According to reports, Lucasfilm has been supportive of the project. The release comes at a time of fierce debate about copyright law provoked by the US Stop Online Piracy Act, which some fear might stifle projects of this kind. The @starwarsuncut Twitter feed said of the release: "We have to admit it was a little anti-SOPA inspired." While Mr Youseph acknowledged the risk, he told the BBC that it was important for people embarking on these projects to "have the necessary permissions in place before undertaking a project". But he added: "Surprisingly many organisations and individuals have granted rights for their material to be used in this manner. "A good example is Joss Whedon and 20th Century Fox who allowed fans of the sci-fi show Firefly to crowdsource (and crowdfund) a fan film based on that show."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The film, uploaded on 18 January, is made up of hundreds of 15-second scenes created by internet users. The Star Wars Uncut project is widely regarded as an example of the power of crowdsourcing. Ramon Youseph, of the Crowdsourcing Gazette blog, told the BBC it showed "the power of the web to engage people in a global collaborative effort". The website starwarsuncut.com began asking for fan-made scenes in 2009. It went on to win an interactive media Emmy in 2010. Scenessubmitted to Starwarsuncut.comwere specially selected for this compilation. Although the clips had been available online previously, this is the first time they have been put together into a full-length film. Writing online, the project's creator Casey Pugh said: "Finally, the crowdsourced project has been stitched together and put online for your streaming pleasure. "The director's cut is a feature-length film that contains hand-picked scenes from the entire starwarsuncut.com collection." Thenew version of the film quickly became a YouTube hit. "1M views in 72hrs! Thanks everyone for all the wonderful feedback," tweeted the @starwarsuncut account. The film is alsoavailable on Vimeowhere it has been played nearly 300,000 times. Copyright Jeff Howe, author of the book Crowdsourcing, said the project's success shows the public can have a role in movie-making: "The trick, of course, is not simply to stitch together disparate footage from many minds (and cameras), but to make it entertaining, compelling, etc." He added that the project had "provided clear guidelines by cutting the original film into 15-second bits. What few people understand is that crowdsourcing is not some free-for-all. "The rules are actually more important than they might be in a more traditional methodology." The 400-plus scenes in the film, which were edited together by Aaron Valdez and Bryan Pugh, are an eclectic mix of live-action, animation and puppetry. Actors of all ages, and in some cases species, appear in the scenes. Influences range from Yellow Submarine to Ingmar Bergman's Seventh Seal. A bewildering variety of household goods are enlisted as substitutes for the original film's ground-breaking special effects and props. In one scene a fly-swat has an unexpected cameo as Luke's lightsaber. Locations vary, with efforts to faithfully recreate the original sets sitting side-by-side with homes, suburban streets, bowling alleys and, in one case, a hot tub. According to reports, Lucasfilm has been supportive of the project. The release comes at a time of fierce debate about copyright law provoked by the US Stop Online Piracy Act, which some fear might stifle projects of this kind. The @starwarsuncut Twitter feed said of the release: "We have to admit it was a little anti-SOPA inspired." While Mr Youseph acknowledged the risk, he told the BBC that it was important for people embarking on these projects to "have the necessary permissions in place before undertaking a project". But he added: "Surprisingly many organisations and individuals have granted rights for their material to be used in this manner. "A good example is Joss Whedon and 20th Century Fox who allowed fans of the sci-fi show Firefly to crowdsource (and crowdfund) a fan film based on that show." ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The film, uploaded on 18 January, is made up of hundreds of 15-second scenes created by internet users. The Star Wars Uncut project is widely regarded as an example of the power of crowdsourcing. Ramon Youseph, of the Crowdsourcing Gazette blog, told the BBC it showed "the power of the web to engage people in a global collaborative effort". The website starwarsuncut.com began asking for fan-made scenes in 2009. It went on to win an interactive media Emmy in 2010. Scenessubmitted to Starwarsuncut.comwere specially selected for this compilation. Although the clips had been available online previously, this is the first time they have been put together into a full-length film. Writing online, the project's creator Casey Pugh said: "Finally, the crowdsourced project has been stitched together and put online for your streaming pleasure. "The director's cut is a feature-length film that contains hand-picked scenes from the entire starwarsuncut.com collection." Thenew version of the film quickly became a YouTube hit. "1M views in 72hrs! Thanks everyone for all the wonderful feedback," tweeted the @starwarsuncut account. The film is alsoavailable on Vimeowhere it has been played nearly 300,000 times. Copyright Jeff Howe, author of the book Crowdsourcing, said the project's success shows the public can have a role in movie-making: "The trick, of course, is not simply to stitch together disparate footage from many minds (and cameras), but to make it entertaining, compelling, etc." He added that the project had "provided clear guidelines by cutting the original film into 15-second bits. What few people understand is that crowdsourcing is not some free-for-all. "The rules are actually more important than they might be in a more traditional methodology." The 400-plus scenes in the film, which were edited together by Aaron Valdez and Bryan Pugh, are an eclectic mix of live-action, animation and puppetry. Actors of all ages, and in some cases species, appear in the scenes. Influences range from Yellow Submarine to Ingmar Bergman's Seventh Seal. A bewildering variety of household goods are enlisted as substitutes for the original film's ground-breaking special effects and props. In one scene a fly-swat has an unexpected cameo as Luke's lightsaber. Locations vary, with efforts to faithfully recreate the original sets sitting side-by-side with homes, suburban streets, bowling alleys and, in one case, a hot tub. According to reports, Lucasfilm has been supportive of the project. The release comes at a time of fierce debate about copyright law provoked by the US Stop Online Piracy Act, which some fear might stifle projects of this kind. The @starwarsuncut Twitter feed said of the release: "We have to admit it was a little anti-SOPA inspired." While Mr Youseph acknowledged the risk, he told the BBC that it was important for people embarking on these projects to "have the necessary permissions in place before undertaking a project". But he added: "Surprisingly many organisations and individuals have granted rights for their material to be used in this manner. "A good example is Joss Whedon and 20th Century Fox who allowed fans of the sci-fi show Firefly to crowdsource (and crowdfund) a fan film based on that show." ### Summary: A new film has been released on YouTube. ### Text: A new film has been released on YouTube. ### Summary: A new film has been released on YouTube. ### Text: A

sinhala.050612_president_tna

https://www.bbc.com/sinhala/news/story/2005/06/050612_president_tna

President assures JM to TNA

The president of Sri Lanka has assured the TNA that she will have more discussions with them before signing the deal.

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarians impressed upon the president in Colombo on Sunday that the JM should be established without delay, they said. Parliamentary group leader of the TNA R Sampanthan told BBC Sandeshaya (BBC Sinhala) that the president explained the reasons for the delay in establishing the structure. “The president reiterated her commitment to establish the JM as soon as possible.” Sampanthan said the president assured them the decision to share tsunami aid with the rebels would not be changed if she is to continuously hold the office of the president. JVP criticised President Kumaratunga met the TNA delegation after making a scathing attack on coalition partner Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) in the morning. She accused the four JVP ministers in the cabinet of running a “psychological terrorism” and ruining the country’s economy. The president on Friday assured the Buddhist Mahanayakes that she would have more discussions with them before signing the deal. The influential Buddhist monks were assured by the president that the deal would not harm Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity. Udugama Sri Buddharakkhita, Mahanayake thero of the Asgiriya chapter who met the president on Saturday told BBC Sandeshaya that after talks he felt that there is no need for protest. In an apparent attempt to mobilise support for the proposed deal, Kumaratunga is to meet opposition leader Ranil Wickramasinghe on Monday.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarians impressed upon the president in Colombo on Sunday that the JM should be established without delay, they said. Parliamentary group leader of the TNA R Sampanthan told BBC Sandeshaya (BBC Sinhala) that the president explained the reasons for the delay in establishing the structure. “The president reiterated her commitment to establish the JM as soon as possible.” Sampanthan said the president assured them the decision to share tsunami aid with the rebels would not be changed if she is to continuously hold the office of the president. JVP criticised President Kumaratunga met the TNA delegation after making a scathing attack on coalition partner Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) in the morning. She accused the four JVP ministers in the cabinet of running a “psychological terrorism” and ruining the country’s economy. The president on Friday assured the Buddhist Mahanayakes that she would have more discussions with them before signing the deal. The influential Buddhist monks were assured by the president that the deal would not harm Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity. Udugama Sri Buddharakkhita, Mahanayake thero of the Asgiriya chapter who met the president on Saturday told BBC Sandeshaya that after talks he felt that there is no need for protest. In an apparent attempt to mobilise support for the proposed deal, Kumaratunga is to meet opposition leader Ranil Wickramasinghe on Monday. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarians impressed upon the president in Colombo on Sunday that the JM should be established without delay, they said. Parliamentary group leader of the TNA R Sampanthan told BBC Sandeshaya (BBC Sinhala) that the president explained the reasons for the delay in establishing the structure. “The president reiterated her commitment to establish the JM as soon as possible.” Sampanthan said the president assured them the decision to share tsunami aid with the rebels would not be changed if she is to continuously hold the office of the president. JVP criticised President Kumaratunga met the TNA delegation after making a scathing attack on coalition partner Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) in the morning. She accused the four JVP ministers in the cabinet of running a “psychological terrorism” and ruining the country’s economy. The president on Friday assured the Buddhist Mahanayakes that she would have more discussions with them before signing the deal. The influential Buddhist monks were assured by the president that the deal would not harm Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity. Udugama Sri Buddharakkhita, Mahanayake thero of the Asgiriya chapter who met the president on Saturday told BBC Sandeshaya that after talks he felt that there is no need for protest. In an apparent attempt to mobilise support for the proposed deal, Kumaratunga is to meet opposition leader Ranil Wickramasinghe on Monday. ### Summary: The president of Sri Lanka has assured the TNA that she will have more discussions with them before signing the deal. ### Source: Sri Lanka's president has assured the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) that

world-europe-jersey-36649387

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-jersey-36649387

Woman held after boy critically injured in Jersey crash

A boy has been flown to hospital in Southampton after a crash in Jersey.

Paramedics were called to Millennium Town Park in St Helier, Jersey, at 15:51 BST on Monday and the boy was later flown to hospital in Southampton. The woman, 38, was held on suspicion of road traffic law offences and has been bailed, Jersey Police said. The boy, who was visiting the island with his family from the UK, remains in a critical condition in hospital. Police said they have taken statements from a number of witnesses, but were appealing for anyone else who saw the crash and any owner of premises with CCTV in the area to come forward.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Paramedics were called to Millennium Town Park in St Helier, Jersey, at 15:51 BST on Monday and the boy was later flown to hospital in Southampton. The woman, 38, was held on suspicion of road traffic law offences and has been bailed, Jersey Police said. The boy, who was visiting the island with his family from the UK, remains in a critical condition in hospital. Police said they have taken statements from a number of witnesses, but were appealing for anyone else who saw the crash and any owner of premises with CCTV in the area to come forward. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Paramedics were called to Millennium Town Park in St Helier, Jersey, at 15:51 BST on Monday and the boy was later flown to hospital in Southampton. The woman, 38, was held on suspicion of road traffic law offences and has been bailed, Jersey Police said. The boy, who was visiting the island with his family from the UK, remains in a critical condition in hospital. Police said they have taken statements from a number of witnesses, but were appealing for anyone else who saw the crash and any owner of premises with CCTV in the area to come forward. ### Summary: A boy has been flown to hospital in Southampton after a crash in Jersey. ### Next: A boy has been flown to hospital in Southampton after a crash in Jersey. ### Next:

science-environment-24981735

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-24981735

Coal fires green anger at UN climate talks

The Polish government has said it is committed to developing cleaner technologies.

By Matt McGrathEnvironment correspondent, BBC News They are angry because they believe Poland is more committed to coal than curbing climate change. The Polish government says that coal will remain a critical part of their energy mix for many decades. But they say they are committed to developing cleaner technologies. The UN's chief climate negotiator, Christiana Figueres, will address the International Coal and Climate two-day summit and is expected to call for radical reform. She said she "wanted to speak directly to an industry that must change quickly". But her appearance at the event has drawn criticism from green groups. According to WWF's head of delegation at the climate talks, the coal meeting is a "provocative act". "For the coal industry to come to Warsaw at a time when we are dealing with these serious issues and to say they have a future and try to pretend they can make a contribution, is a bit provocative," Tasneem Essop told BBC News. The World Coal Association believes that coal is an important part of the energy mix right now and is growing in many parts of the world. They say that coal accounts for 41% of the world's electricity and in 20 years' time is still expected to be providing a quarter of the world's primary energy, the same level it was at in 1980. If people are serious about tackling climate change, they need to accept this reality and help the industry develop the "clean coal" technology that can extract the CO2 from the substance. But Tasneem Essop rejects the idea that coal can be cleaned up. "This whole concept of clean coal is a myth and it is being presented by the industry," she said. "We do recognise that for developing countries that giving up coal is going to be a challenge and we're not suggesting that tomorrow they stop. "What we are saying is that we need to recognise that there is a point at which we cannot continue using coal in our energy mix and we have a just transition into renewables." Poland is investing heavily in clean coal technology and the coal meeting has the open approval of the government, being held at the Ministry of the Economy. Speaking in September, Prime Minister Donald Tusk re-iterated the importance of coal for Poland. "The future of Polish energy is in brown and black coal, as well as shale gas," he was quoted as saying. "Some wanted coal to be dispensed with, but energy independence requires not only the diversification of energy resources, but also the maximum use of one's own resources." Follow Matt on Twitter

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Matt McGrathEnvironment correspondent, BBC News They are angry because they believe Poland is more committed to coal than curbing climate change. The Polish government says that coal will remain a critical part of their energy mix for many decades. But they say they are committed to developing cleaner technologies. The UN's chief climate negotiator, Christiana Figueres, will address the International Coal and Climate two-day summit and is expected to call for radical reform. She said she "wanted to speak directly to an industry that must change quickly". But her appearance at the event has drawn criticism from green groups. According to WWF's head of delegation at the climate talks, the coal meeting is a "provocative act". "For the coal industry to come to Warsaw at a time when we are dealing with these serious issues and to say they have a future and try to pretend they can make a contribution, is a bit provocative," Tasneem Essop told BBC News. The World Coal Association believes that coal is an important part of the energy mix right now and is growing in many parts of the world. They say that coal accounts for 41% of the world's electricity and in 20 years' time is still expected to be providing a quarter of the world's primary energy, the same level it was at in 1980. If people are serious about tackling climate change, they need to accept this reality and help the industry develop the "clean coal" technology that can extract the CO2 from the substance. But Tasneem Essop rejects the idea that coal can be cleaned up. "This whole concept of clean coal is a myth and it is being presented by the industry," she said. "We do recognise that for developing countries that giving up coal is going to be a challenge and we're not suggesting that tomorrow they stop. "What we are saying is that we need to recognise that there is a point at which we cannot continue using coal in our energy mix and we have a just transition into renewables." Poland is investing heavily in clean coal technology and the coal meeting has the open approval of the government, being held at the Ministry of the Economy. Speaking in September, Prime Minister Donald Tusk re-iterated the importance of coal for Poland. "The future of Polish energy is in brown and black coal, as well as shale gas," he was quoted as saying. "Some wanted coal to be dispensed with, but energy independence requires not only the diversification of energy resources, but also the maximum use of one's own resources." Follow Matt on Twitter ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Matt McGrathEnvironment correspondent, BBC News They are angry because they believe Poland is more committed to coal than curbing climate change. The Polish government says that coal will remain a critical part of their energy mix for many decades. But they say they are committed to developing cleaner technologies. The UN's chief climate negotiator, Christiana Figueres, will address the International Coal and Climate two-day summit and is expected to call for radical reform. She said she "wanted to speak directly to an industry that must change quickly". But her appearance at the event has drawn criticism from green groups. According to WWF's head of delegation at the climate talks, the coal meeting is a "provocative act". "For the coal industry to come to Warsaw at a time when we are dealing with these serious issues and to say they have a future and try to pretend they can make a contribution, is a bit provocative," Tasneem Essop told BBC News. The World Coal Association believes that coal is an important part of the energy mix right now and is growing in many parts of the world. They say that coal accounts for 41% of the world's electricity and in 20 years' time is still expected to be providing a quarter of the world's primary energy, the same level it was at in 1980. If people are serious about tackling climate change, they need to accept this reality and help the industry develop the "clean coal" technology that can extract the CO2 from the substance. But Tasneem Essop rejects the idea that coal can be cleaned up. "This whole concept of clean coal is a myth and it is being presented by the industry," she said. "We do recognise that for developing countries that giving up coal is going to be a challenge and we're not suggesting that tomorrow they stop. "What we are saying is that we need to recognise that there is a point at which we cannot continue using coal in our energy mix and we have a just transition into renewables." Poland is investing heavily in clean coal technology and the coal meeting has the open approval of the government, being held at the Ministry of the Economy. Speaking in September, Prime Minister Donald Tusk re-iterated the importance of coal for Poland. "The future of Polish energy is in brown and black coal, as well as shale gas," he was quoted as saying. "Some wanted coal to be dispensed with, but energy independence requires not only the diversification of energy resources, but also the maximum use of one's own resources." Follow Matt on Twitter ### Summary: The Polish government has said it is committed to developing cleaner technologies. ### Spelling and grammar The World Coal Association says it is committed to developing cleaner technologies. ### Constructed response The Polish government

uk-scotland-highlands-islands-29077544

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-29077544

Back to front: Loopallu the festival 'that shouldn't work'

A festival in Scotland's north west Highland coast has been named the best festival in the UK.

By Steven McKenzieBBC Scotland Highlands and Islands reporter The odds of Loopallu being a success are stacked against it, according Mr Hicks. It is held in autumn - placing it outside the traditional summer festival season - in a location on Scotland's north west Highland coast and with just 2,500 revellers on each of the two days it is held. "On paper, it is an event that should not work," says Mr Hicks, who lives in Ullapool. "But here we are 10 years on. "I think we now stand alongside Scotland's other festivals - T in the Park, the Wickerman, HebCelt and Belladrum," he adds. Hayseed Dixie, at the time enjoying a huge public profile, promoted and headlined the first Loopallu. The Tennessee-based group, which continues to tour in the UK and recently finished a new album, had previously played in the village hall at Ullapool. In the build up to Loopallu's debut, Hayseed Dixie plugged it at every opportunity including during an appearance on BBC Radio Two's Jeremy Vine show and from the main stage of Glastonbury. Mr Hicks drew his inspiration from Glasgow band Belle and Sebastians Camber Sands Weekender, where the band took over a holiday camp for the weekend Mr Hicks says: "The first festival was very much about Hayseed Dixie and Ullapool. "While they did not have a financial input in it, they promoted the festival throughout the UK in the build up to the first event, coupled with incredible support from Radio Two's Janice Long. The rest, as they say, is history." He adds: "The festival is held at the end of September to avoid clashing with the height of the summer tourist season. "Ironically it is now one of the biggest weeks in terms of income for the village. Many of those going to the festival start arriving on the Wednesday and stay until Sunday." About 30% of the revellers are from the Highlands, 50-60% from the rest of Scotland and the rest from other parts of the UK and abroad. In the past, an economic impact study showed the festival generated between £600,000 to £700,000 for the local economy. Mr Hicks adds: "Pretty much the same people have been involved in running Loopallu since the start. "We have people who down tools to come and run it. There is a joiner who becomes the site manager, another joiner who manages the bar." Tickets for this year's festival sold out before any of the acts were announced, a cause of delight but also concern for Mr Hicks. "It was incredible. It was the quickest ever we have sold out," he says. "On one hand I was really, really chuffed, on the other hand I was really nervous. I thought 'oh god who do they think we have got?'" Headline acts in previous years have included Franz Ferdinand, Paolo Nutini and Mumford and Sons. Mr Hick says: "People's expectations are high. "Fortunately, when we announced this year's line up it was again well received. I think we have built up a trust with our audience that we will deliver." Acts, as well as festival-goers, have also shown a willingness to come back year after year. They include Hunter and the Bear and, making their second appearance at Loopallu, Public Service Broadcasting. Mr Hicks says one of the biggest complements has been Mumford and Sons being inspired to set up their own mini festival, Gentlemen of the Road Stopover, following their appearance at Loopallu. "I'm flattered that we've had that little bit of influence on a global act," he says. Loopallu takes place on 26-27 September.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Steven McKenzieBBC Scotland Highlands and Islands reporter The odds of Loopallu being a success are stacked against it, according Mr Hicks. It is held in autumn - placing it outside the traditional summer festival season - in a location on Scotland's north west Highland coast and with just 2,500 revellers on each of the two days it is held. "On paper, it is an event that should not work," says Mr Hicks, who lives in Ullapool. "But here we are 10 years on. "I think we now stand alongside Scotland's other festivals - T in the Park, the Wickerman, HebCelt and Belladrum," he adds. Hayseed Dixie, at the time enjoying a huge public profile, promoted and headlined the first Loopallu. The Tennessee-based group, which continues to tour in the UK and recently finished a new album, had previously played in the village hall at Ullapool. In the build up to Loopallu's debut, Hayseed Dixie plugged it at every opportunity including during an appearance on BBC Radio Two's Jeremy Vine show and from the main stage of Glastonbury. Mr Hicks drew his inspiration from Glasgow band Belle and Sebastians Camber Sands Weekender, where the band took over a holiday camp for the weekend Mr Hicks says: "The first festival was very much about Hayseed Dixie and Ullapool. "While they did not have a financial input in it, they promoted the festival throughout the UK in the build up to the first event, coupled with incredible support from Radio Two's Janice Long. The rest, as they say, is history." He adds: "The festival is held at the end of September to avoid clashing with the height of the summer tourist season. "Ironically it is now one of the biggest weeks in terms of income for the village. Many of those going to the festival start arriving on the Wednesday and stay until Sunday." About 30% of the revellers are from the Highlands, 50-60% from the rest of Scotland and the rest from other parts of the UK and abroad. In the past, an economic impact study showed the festival generated between £600,000 to £700,000 for the local economy. Mr Hicks adds: "Pretty much the same people have been involved in running Loopallu since the start. "We have people who down tools to come and run it. There is a joiner who becomes the site manager, another joiner who manages the bar." Tickets for this year's festival sold out before any of the acts were announced, a cause of delight but also concern for Mr Hicks. "It was incredible. It was the quickest ever we have sold out," he says. "On one hand I was really, really chuffed, on the other hand I was really nervous. I thought 'oh god who do they think we have got?'" Headline acts in previous years have included Franz Ferdinand, Paolo Nutini and Mumford and Sons. Mr Hick says: "People's expectations are high. "Fortunately, when we announced this year's line up it was again well received. I think we have built up a trust with our audience that we will deliver." Acts, as well as festival-goers, have also shown a willingness to come back year after year. They include Hunter and the Bear and, making their second appearance at Loopallu, Public Service Broadcasting. Mr Hicks says one of the biggest complements has been Mumford and Sons being inspired to set up their own mini festival, Gentlemen of the Road Stopover, following their appearance at Loopallu. "I'm flattered that we've had that little bit of influence on a global act," he says. Loopallu takes place on 26-27 September. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Steven McKenzieBBC Scotland Highlands and Islands reporter The odds of Loopallu being a success are stacked against it, according Mr Hicks. It is held in autumn - placing it outside the traditional summer festival season - in a location on Scotland's north west Highland coast and with just 2,500 revellers on each of the two days it is held. "On paper, it is an event that should not work," says Mr Hicks, who lives in Ullapool. "But here we are 10 years on. "I think we now stand alongside Scotland's other festivals - T in the Park, the Wickerman, HebCelt and Belladrum," he adds. Hayseed Dixie, at the time enjoying a huge public profile, promoted and headlined the first Loopallu. The Tennessee-based group, which continues to tour in the UK and recently finished a new album, had previously played in the village hall at Ullapool. In the build up to Loopallu's debut, Hayseed Dixie plugged it at every opportunity including during an appearance on BBC Radio Two's Jeremy Vine show and from the main stage of Glastonbury. Mr Hicks drew his inspiration from Glasgow band Belle and Sebastians Camber Sands Weekender, where the band took over a holiday camp for the weekend Mr Hicks says: "The first festival was very much about Hayseed Dixie and Ullapool. "While they did not have a financial input in it, they promoted the festival throughout the UK in the build up to the first event, coupled with incredible support from Radio Two's Janice Long. The rest, as they say, is history." He adds: "The festival is held at the end of September to avoid clashing with the height of the summer tourist season. "Ironically it is now one of the biggest weeks in terms of income for the village. Many of those going to the festival start arriving on the Wednesday and stay until Sunday." About 30% of the revellers are from the Highlands, 50-60% from the rest of Scotland and the rest from other parts of the UK and abroad. In the past, an economic impact study showed the festival generated between £600,000 to £700,000 for the local economy. Mr Hicks adds: "Pretty much the same people have been involved in running Loopallu since the start. "We have people who down tools to come and run it. There is a joiner who becomes the site manager, another joiner who manages the bar." Tickets for this year's festival sold out before any of the acts were announced, a cause of delight but also concern for Mr Hicks. "It was incredible. It was the quickest ever we have sold out," he says. "On one hand I was really, really chuffed, on the other hand I was really nervous. I thought 'oh god who do they think we have got?'" Headline acts in previous years have included Franz Ferdinand, Paolo Nutini and Mumford and Sons. Mr Hick says: "People's expectations are high. "Fortunately, when we announced this year's line up it was again well received. I think we have built up a trust with our audience that we will deliver." Acts, as well as festival-goers, have also shown a willingness to come back year after year. They include Hunter and the Bear and, making their second appearance at Loopallu, Public Service Broadcasting. Mr Hicks says one of the biggest complements has been Mumford and Sons being inspired to set up their own mini festival, Gentlemen of the Road Stopover, following their appearance at Loopallu. "I'm flattered that we've had that little bit of influence on a global act," he says. Loopallu takes place on 26-27 September. ### Summary: A festival in Scotland's north west Highland coast has been named the best festival in the UK. ### Next: The first festival in Scotland's north west Highland coast has been named the best in the UK.

science-environment-18359287

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-18359287

Shortages: Metals in demand

The world's supply of metals is expected to increase in the coming years.

By Roger HarrabinEnvironment analyst It was the latest in a pandemic of metals thefts: lead from church roofs, copper from railway cables. Does this mean we're reaching a shortage of these metals? No - it just means they have attained a value that makes a low-risk crime worthwhile. Will we suffer a shortage of metals as the world population grows and gets richer? That's a different and difficult question. Demand for metals will surely increase - but it's impossible to predict by how much because shortage is determined by a complex equation involving demand, availability, cost of extraction and processing, technology improvement and substitutability - all of them influenced by the state of the economy. First, availability: we can't say how much metal lies in the earth's crust, and the more we seek the more we find. Many new finds, though, are dilute. Copper ores used to contain as much as 30% copper. Now firms are having to smash rocks containing as little as 1% of copper. So it's highly likely that future metals will be increasingly expensive. New technologies for extraction may mitigate the cost, though. In Chile, for instance, they're developing bio-mining - a process which uses bacteria to liberate copper from rocks, saving money and energy. Future demand for metals will depend on the state of economic development and spread of wealth. It'll also depend on substitutes being found. In Michigan in the US for instance a firm's attempting to slash the cost of carbon fibre for it to be used in wind turbine blades. This lightweight substitution removes the need of steel for the blades and reduces the need for steel in the turbine tower. Another firm is super-hardening steel so less of it needs to be used. Advances like these are hard to predict. It's also impossible to foretell which minerals will suddenly come into fashion. Gold dust A report by the UK think-tank Green Alliance collated seven recent studies on mineral shortage. Iron and aluminium are so abundant they didn't get a mention. There was little concern expressed for copper, silver or chromium. But there were substantial worries over the minerals that are gold dust for the new economy: antimony, used in flame-retardants and micro-electronics; the platinum group of metals, used in catalytic converters, fuel cells, phones and hard discs; and lithium, used in batteries. Indium was a greater concern still - it's used in flat screens and touch screens. But the greatest anxiety was over the group of metals known as rare earths whose market price jumped in some cases by 2,000% in a year. Rare earths used in fluorescent lamps help save energy. The rare earth lanthanum's in demand for hybrid car batteries. Neodymium, dysprosium and praseodymium improve efficiency of high power magnets, electric vehicles and wind turbines. Rare earths are not actually rare but the fears developed because China, which has the biggest deposits, spooked businesses by imposing export restrictions, saying that they were needed for the domestic manufacturers. There's been a rush to produce rare earths in other countries and the price slumped in the recession so those anxieties have ebbed a little. But the threat of shortage rarely fails to provoke a reflexive reaction and the mini-crisis prompted policy-makers to ponder how we can recycle more of the metals we use. Double paradox This is easier said than done , with economics, technology and societal attitudes all at play. Aluminium, which is cost-effective and easy to recover, is recycled globally at just 60-70% because it's hard to set up comprehensive collection systems. Copper is recycled at only 40% even though 99% is potentially reusable. When it comes to the metals embedded in complex products like phones, circuit boards and screens the task is much harder. And the more cars become computers on wheels the less easy it is to shred them and retrieve the metal. Designers are being urged to make products that can be dismantled and are recyclable but this often means increasing the weight and use of materials. And there's a double paradox. The more designers reduce the amounts of metals in products, the less worthwhile it is to recycle them. And even if we do get smarter about recycling the metals in the shortest supply it won't keep up with the predicted increase in demand. There's another factor, too - the environment. As we're mining metals in greater dilution we're using more and more energy and water - commodities themselves under ever-increasing pressure. Like so many other stress factors for the world, metals don't exist in isolation. And it's the combination of stresses that gives many analysts such cause for concern.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Roger HarrabinEnvironment analyst It was the latest in a pandemic of metals thefts: lead from church roofs, copper from railway cables. Does this mean we're reaching a shortage of these metals? No - it just means they have attained a value that makes a low-risk crime worthwhile. Will we suffer a shortage of metals as the world population grows and gets richer? That's a different and difficult question. Demand for metals will surely increase - but it's impossible to predict by how much because shortage is determined by a complex equation involving demand, availability, cost of extraction and processing, technology improvement and substitutability - all of them influenced by the state of the economy. First, availability: we can't say how much metal lies in the earth's crust, and the more we seek the more we find. Many new finds, though, are dilute. Copper ores used to contain as much as 30% copper. Now firms are having to smash rocks containing as little as 1% of copper. So it's highly likely that future metals will be increasingly expensive. New technologies for extraction may mitigate the cost, though. In Chile, for instance, they're developing bio-mining - a process which uses bacteria to liberate copper from rocks, saving money and energy. Future demand for metals will depend on the state of economic development and spread of wealth. It'll also depend on substitutes being found. In Michigan in the US for instance a firm's attempting to slash the cost of carbon fibre for it to be used in wind turbine blades. This lightweight substitution removes the need of steel for the blades and reduces the need for steel in the turbine tower. Another firm is super-hardening steel so less of it needs to be used. Advances like these are hard to predict. It's also impossible to foretell which minerals will suddenly come into fashion. Gold dust A report by the UK think-tank Green Alliance collated seven recent studies on mineral shortage. Iron and aluminium are so abundant they didn't get a mention. There was little concern expressed for copper, silver or chromium. But there were substantial worries over the minerals that are gold dust for the new economy: antimony, used in flame-retardants and micro-electronics; the platinum group of metals, used in catalytic converters, fuel cells, phones and hard discs; and lithium, used in batteries. Indium was a greater concern still - it's used in flat screens and touch screens. But the greatest anxiety was over the group of metals known as rare earths whose market price jumped in some cases by 2,000% in a year. Rare earths used in fluorescent lamps help save energy. The rare earth lanthanum's in demand for hybrid car batteries. Neodymium, dysprosium and praseodymium improve efficiency of high power magnets, electric vehicles and wind turbines. Rare earths are not actually rare but the fears developed because China, which has the biggest deposits, spooked businesses by imposing export restrictions, saying that they were needed for the domestic manufacturers. There's been a rush to produce rare earths in other countries and the price slumped in the recession so those anxieties have ebbed a little. But the threat of shortage rarely fails to provoke a reflexive reaction and the mini-crisis prompted policy-makers to ponder how we can recycle more of the metals we use. Double paradox This is easier said than done, with economics, technology and societal attitudes all at play. Aluminium, which is cost-effective and easy to recover, is recycled globally at just 60-70% because it's hard to set up comprehensive collection systems. Copper is recycled at only 40% even though 99% is potentially reusable. When it comes to the metals embedded in complex products like phones, circuit boards and screens the task is much harder. And the more cars become computers on wheels the less easy it is to shred them and retrieve the metal. Designers are being urged to make products that can be dismantled and are recyclable but this often means increasing the weight and use of materials. And there's a double paradox. The more designers reduce the amounts of metals in products, the less worthwhile it is to recycle them. And even if we do get smarter about recycling the metals in the shortest supply it won't keep up with the predicted increase in demand. There's another factor, too - the environment. As we're mining metals in greater dilution we're using more and more energy and water - commodities themselves under ever-increasing pressure. Like so many other stress factors for the world, metals don't exist in isolation. And it's the combination of stresses that gives many analysts such cause for concern. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Roger HarrabinEnvironment analyst It was the latest in a pandemic of metals thefts: lead from church roofs, copper from railway cables. Does this mean we're reaching a shortage of these metals? No - it just means they have attained a value that makes a low-risk crime worthwhile. Will we suffer a shortage of metals as the world population grows and gets richer? That's a different and difficult question. Demand for metals will surely increase - but it's impossible to predict by how much because shortage is determined by a complex equation involving demand, availability, cost of extraction and processing, technology improvement and substitutability - all of them influenced by the state of the economy. First, availability: we can't say how much metal lies in the earth's crust, and the more we seek the more we find. Many new finds, though, are dilute. Copper ores used to contain as much as 30% copper. Now firms are having to smash rocks containing as little as 1% of copper. So it's highly likely that future metals will be increasingly expensive. New technologies for extraction may mitigate the cost, though. In Chile, for instance, they're developing bio-mining - a process which uses bacteria to liberate copper from rocks, saving money and energy. Future demand for metals will depend on the state of economic development and spread of wealth. It'll also depend on substitutes being found. In Michigan in the US for instance a firm's attempting to slash the cost of carbon fibre for it to be used in wind turbine blades. This lightweight substitution removes the need of steel for the blades and reduces the need for steel in the turbine tower. Another firm is super-hardening steel so less of it needs to be used. Advances like these are hard to predict. It's also impossible to foretell which minerals will suddenly come into fashion. Gold dust A report by the UK think-tank Green Alliance collated seven recent studies on mineral shortage. Iron and aluminium are so abundant they didn't get a mention. There was little concern expressed for copper, silver or chromium. But there were substantial worries over the minerals that are gold dust for the new economy: antimony, used in flame-retardants and micro-electronics; the platinum group of metals, used in catalytic converters, fuel cells, phones and hard discs; and lithium, used in batteries. Indium was a greater concern still - it's used in flat screens and touch screens. But the greatest anxiety was over the group of metals known as rare earths whose market price jumped in some cases by 2,000% in a year. Rare earths used in fluorescent lamps help save energy. The rare earth lanthanum's in demand for hybrid car batteries. Neodymium, dysprosium and praseodymium improve efficiency of high power magnets, electric vehicles and wind turbines. Rare earths are not actually rare but the fears developed because China, which has the biggest deposits, spooked businesses by imposing export restrictions, saying that they were needed for the domestic manufacturers. There's been a rush to produce rare earths in other countries and the price slumped in the recession so those anxieties have ebbed a little. But the threat of shortage rarely fails to provoke a reflexive reaction and the mini-crisis prompted policy-makers to ponder how we can recycle more of the metals we use. Double paradox This is easier said than done, with economics, technology and societal attitudes all at play. Aluminium, which is cost-effective and easy to recover, is recycled globally at just 60-70% because it's hard to set up comprehensive collection systems. Copper is recycled at only 40% even though 99% is potentially reusable. When it comes to the metals embedded in complex products like phones, circuit boards and screens the task is much harder. And the more cars become computers on wheels the less easy it is to shred them and retrieve the metal. Designers are being urged to make products that can be dismantled and are recyclable but this often means increasing the weight and use of materials. And there's a double paradox. The more designers reduce the amounts of metals in products, the less worthwhile it is to recycle them. And even if we do get smarter about recycling the metals in the shortest supply it won't keep up with the predicted increase in demand. There's another factor, too - the environment. As we're mining metals in greater dilution we're using more and more energy and water - commodities themselves under ever-increasing pressure. Like so many other stress factors for the world, metals don't exist in isolation. And it's the combination of stresses that gives many analysts such cause for concern. ### Summary: The world's supply of metals is expected to increase in the coming years. ### Text: The world's supply of metals is expected to increase in the coming years. ### Summary: The

world-asia-india-44497002

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-44497002

How Amazon and Netflix are changing comedy in India

Comedian Zakir Khan has been in the US for more than a decade.

By Nikita MandhaniBBC News Delhi "The guy looked at my handwriting and said, 'Sir, you are very gullible,'" he says. "I was like, 'How do you know that?'" "And he's like, 'Because you came here.'" The audience howls with laughter. This is a clip from Mr Gill's hour-long Amazon Prime special, Keep It Real, which was released in 2017. Mr Gill is one of several Indian comedians who have made shows for international streaming sites. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video launched in India in 2016 and almost immediately started tapping into the country's stand-up comedy talent. Comedy was already taking off in India, thanks to YouTube. Stand-up comics like Zakir Khan and Kenny Sebastian, and comedy groups such as All India Bakchod (AIB) and The Viral Fever (TVF), have amassed a few million followers on the video-sharing site. But the arrival of Amazon and Netflix, subscription-based platforms that commission shows and pay for production, offers new possibilities. Uploading a thrifty 10-minute clip on YouTube is no longer the only option for upcoming comedians. If they got their own special on Amazon, they can do an hour-long show and experiment with different styles of humour. "I wanted a grand piano in the backdrop and they made it possible," says Aadar Malik, whose comedy special debuted on Amazon Prime Video in early 2017. "These shows have in a way brought us to the same level as Bollywood and cricket," says Zakir Khan, equating stand-up comedy with India's two most successful sources of entertainment. But, Mr Khan says, when he started doing stand-up comedy in 2011, he never imagined that the profession would "become this big in India". The 30-year-old shot to fame after winning Comedy Central's competition for India's Best Stand Up Comedian in 2012. Now, he has his own 90-minute-long comedy special and an eight-episode fictional series on Amazon Prime Video. So, is stand-up comedy on the verge of becoming the next big thing in India? Since their launch, both Amazon and Netflix have been aggressively courting young Indian comedians with a large following on social media. In 2017, Netflix released comedy specials featuring Vir Das and Aditi Mittal - two of India's earliest and best known comedians. Mr Das also starred in the Bollywood hit film, Delhi Belly, and has more than 7.5 million Twitter followers. Ms Mittal, who has close to 400,000 Twitter followers, was in the American documentary Stand-Up Planet with Indian-American comedian Hasan Minhaj. In 2017 alone, Amazon Prime Video launched comedy specials featuring 14 Indian stand-up comics. "Indians love comedy and we picked up that signal from our customers," says Vijay Subramaniam, director of content, Amazon Prime Video. "It was made possible by the fact that the country has a growing lead of comedians of different statures, popularity and genres." Sapan Verma, whose comedy special was one of the first to release on Amazon, says this is "a new career goal for a lot of comedians". "It has made a perspective shift. Now a stand-up special is what everybody is working towards." For many comedians, one of the key benefits of having a show on a global platform is the possibility of reaching audiences in different countries. But with that, Mr Verma says, comes the added pressure to produce a "kickass product". "Your special is a representation of you," says comedian Neville Shah. "If you're not good in the first 10 minutes, you lose an audience for life." Sumukhi Suresh, whose comedy web series "Pushpavalli" released on Amazon in December 2017, believes global streaming services have made the Indian comedy scene more professional and also more demanding. "Earlier, a 10-15 minute show was a big deal," says Ms Suresh. "Now, writing a solid hour-long show is important." Comedian Azeem Banatwalla says the profession has come an "insanely long way" - and most Indian stand-up comics would agree that's been the case since they first started out. "In the US, comedians take 15-20 years to get their own special," Banatwalla says, adding that Indian stand-up comics got such an opportunity within six or seven years. Amazon is set to release another season of Indian comedy specials this year. The service also plans to launch its first comedy talent show - Quest for the next stand-up comic - to discover and encourage young stand-up comics in India. "Our customers love what they're getting. So there's a clear need for us to continue growing in this direction," Mr Subramaniam added. Ms Suresh is currently making a show that will air as part of Amazon Prime's second offering of comedy specials in 2018. "The good thing is that since it's a second league special, there's already a market that's been created by the folks last year," she says. "The disadvantage is that the standards are higher." Netflix too has recently announced that it will release two more live stand-up comedy specials by Vir Das. "We have seen how comedy has become a popular genre in India and this tells us that there's a special place for humour among our members in India," a Netflix spokesperson told the BBC in an email conversation. For most stand-up comics in India, having their own special is an emotional journey. "Releasing a five minute YouTube clip is cool but a special is where the audience really gets to know you," said Mr Verma. "It has a deeper emotional connect to it and that changes a lot."

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Nikita MandhaniBBC News Delhi "The guy looked at my handwriting and said, 'Sir, you are very gullible,'" he says. "I was like, 'How do you know that?'" "And he's like, 'Because you came here.'" The audience howls with laughter. This is a clip from Mr Gill's hour-long Amazon Prime special, Keep It Real, which was released in 2017. Mr Gill is one of several Indian comedians who have made shows for international streaming sites. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video launched in India in 2016 and almost immediately started tapping into the country's stand-up comedy talent. Comedy was already taking off in India, thanks to YouTube. Stand-up comics like Zakir Khan and Kenny Sebastian, and comedy groups such as All India Bakchod (AIB) and The Viral Fever (TVF), have amassed a few million followers on the video-sharing site. But the arrival of Amazon and Netflix, subscription-based platforms that commission shows and pay for production, offers new possibilities. Uploading a thrifty 10-minute clip on YouTube is no longer the only option for upcoming comedians. If they got their own special on Amazon, they can do an hour-long show and experiment with different styles of humour. "I wanted a grand piano in the backdrop and they made it possible," says Aadar Malik, whose comedy special debuted on Amazon Prime Video in early 2017. "These shows have in a way brought us to the same level as Bollywood and cricket," says Zakir Khan, equating stand-up comedy with India's two most successful sources of entertainment. But, Mr Khan says, when he started doing stand-up comedy in 2011, he never imagined that the profession would "become this big in India". The 30-year-old shot to fame after winning Comedy Central's competition for India's Best Stand Up Comedian in 2012. Now, he has his own 90-minute-long comedy special and an eight-episode fictional series on Amazon Prime Video. So, is stand-up comedy on the verge of becoming the next big thing in India? Since their launch, both Amazon and Netflix have been aggressively courting young Indian comedians with a large following on social media. In 2017, Netflix released comedy specials featuring Vir Das and Aditi Mittal - two of India's earliest and best known comedians. Mr Das also starred in the Bollywood hit film, Delhi Belly, and has more than 7.5 million Twitter followers. Ms Mittal, who has close to 400,000 Twitter followers, was in the American documentary Stand-Up Planet with Indian-American comedian Hasan Minhaj. In 2017 alone, Amazon Prime Video launched comedy specials featuring 14 Indian stand-up comics. "Indians love comedy and we picked up that signal from our customers," says Vijay Subramaniam, director of content, Amazon Prime Video. "It was made possible by the fact that the country has a growing lead of comedians of different statures, popularity and genres." Sapan Verma, whose comedy special was one of the first to release on Amazon, says this is "a new career goal for a lot of comedians". "It has made a perspective shift. Now a stand-up special is what everybody is working towards." For many comedians, one of the key benefits of having a show on a global platform is the possibility of reaching audiences in different countries. But with that, Mr Verma says, comes the added pressure to produce a "kickass product". "Your special is a representation of you," says comedian Neville Shah. "If you're not good in the first 10 minutes, you lose an audience for life." Sumukhi Suresh, whose comedy web series "Pushpavalli" released on Amazon in December 2017, believes global streaming services have made the Indian comedy scene more professional and also more demanding. "Earlier, a 10-15 minute show was a big deal," says Ms Suresh. "Now, writing a solid hour-long show is important." Comedian Azeem Banatwalla says the profession has come an "insanely long way" - and most Indian stand-up comics would agree that's been the case since they first started out. "In the US, comedians take 15-20 years to get their own special," Banatwalla says, adding that Indian stand-up comics got such an opportunity within six or seven years. Amazon is set to release another season of Indian comedy specials this year. The service also plans to launch its first comedy talent show - Quest for the next stand-up comic - to discover and encourage young stand-up comics in India. "Our customers love what they're getting. So there's a clear need for us to continue growing in this direction," Mr Subramaniam added. Ms Suresh is currently making a show that will air as part of Amazon Prime's second offering of comedy specials in 2018. "The good thing is that ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Nikita MandhaniBBC News Delhi "The guy looked at my handwriting and said, 'Sir, you are very gullible,'" he says. "I was like, 'How do you know that?'" "And he's like, 'Because you came here.'" The audience howls with laughter. This is a clip from Mr Gill's hour-long Amazon Prime special, Keep It Real, which was released in 2017. Mr Gill is one of several Indian comedians who have made shows for international streaming sites. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video launched in India in 2016 and almost immediately started tapping into the country's stand-up comedy talent. Comedy was already taking off in India, thanks to YouTube. Stand-up comics like Zakir Khan and Kenny Sebastian, and comedy groups such as All India Bakchod (AIB) and The Viral Fever (TVF), have amassed a few million followers on the video-sharing site. But the arrival of Amazon and Netflix, subscription-based platforms that commission shows and pay for production, offers new possibilities. Uploading a thrifty 10-minute clip on YouTube is no longer the only option for upcoming comedians. If they got their own special on Amazon, they can do an hour-long show and experiment with different styles of humour. "I wanted a grand piano in the backdrop and they made it possible," says Aadar Malik, whose comedy special debuted on Amazon Prime Video in early 2017. "These shows have in a way brought us to the same level as Bollywood and cricket," says Zakir Khan, equating stand-up comedy with India's two most successful sources of entertainment. But, Mr Khan says, when he started doing stand-up comedy in 2011, he never imagined that the profession would "become this big in India". The 30-year-old shot to fame after winning Comedy Central's competition for India's Best Stand Up Comedian in 2012. Now, he has his own 90-minute-long comedy special and an eight-episode fictional series on Amazon Prime Video. So, is stand-up comedy on the verge of becoming the next big thing in India? Since their launch, both Amazon and Netflix have been aggressively courting young Indian comedians with a large following on social media. In 2017, Netflix released comedy specials featuring Vir Das and Aditi Mittal - two of India's earliest and best known comedians. Mr Das also starred in the Bollywood hit film, Delhi Belly, and has more than 7.5 million Twitter followers. Ms Mittal, who has close to 400,000 Twitter followers, was in the American documentary Stand-Up Planet with Indian-American comedian Hasan Minhaj. In 2017 alone, Amazon Prime Video launched comedy specials featuring 14 Indian stand-up comics. "Indians love comedy and we picked up that signal from our customers," says Vijay Subramaniam, director of content, Amazon Prime Video. "It was made possible by the fact that the country has a growing lead of comedians of different statures, popularity and genres." Sapan Verma, whose comedy special was one of the first to release on Amazon, says this is "a new career goal for a lot of comedians". "It has made a perspective shift. Now a stand-up special is what everybody is working towards." For many comedians, one of the key benefits of having a show on a global platform is the possibility of reaching audiences in different countries. But with that, Mr Verma says, comes the added pressure to produce a "kickass product". "Your special is a representation of you," says comedian Neville Shah. "If you're not good in the first 10 minutes, you lose an audience for life." Sumukhi Suresh, whose comedy web series "Pushpavalli" released on Amazon in December 2017, believes global streaming services have made the Indian comedy scene more professional and also more demanding. "Earlier, a 10-15 minute show was a big deal," says Ms Suresh. "Now, writing a solid hour-long show is important." Comedian Azeem Banatwalla says the profession has come an "insanely long way" - and most Indian stand-up comics would agree that's been the case since they first started out. "In the US, comedians take 15-20 years to get their own special," Banatwalla says, adding that Indian stand-up comics got such an opportunity within six or seven years. Amazon is set to release another season of Indian comedy specials this year. The service also plans to launch its first comedy talent show - Quest for the next stand-up comic - to discover and encourage young stand-up comics in India. "Our customers love what they're getting. So there's a clear need for us to continue growing in this direction," Mr Subramaniam added. Ms Suresh is currently making a show that will air as part of Amazon Prime's second offering of comedy specials in 2018. "The good thing is that ### Summary: Comedian Zakir Khan has been in the US for more than a decade. ### Source: By Nikita MandhaniBBC News, Delhi Zakir Khan is one of the most popular comedians in

science-environment-47044101

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-47044101

Shark on UK plates highlights trade in endangered species

A study has found that shark fins are being sold in the UK.

By Helen BriggsBBC News DNA tests show that shark products destined for restaurants include two species vulnerable to extinction. Consumers may be unaware what shark they are eating - and whether it is from a sustainable population, British scientists say. The UK is playing a continuing role in the "damaging trade in endangered shark species", they say. One of the two threatened sharks identified - the scalloped hammerhead - is subject to international restrictions. University of Exeter researchers say, despite the small number of samples studied, they have demonstrated the sale of threatened sharks, highlighting the global nature of the damaging trade in endangered species. "The discovery of scalloped hammerheads in shark fins that were destined to be sold in the UK highlights how widespread the sale of these endangered species really is," Dr Andrew Griffiths told BBC News. The research, reported in the journal Scientific Reports, examined both shark fins destined for restaurants and shark steaks sold in fishmongers and chip shops. It found that Squalus acanthias (spiny dogfish), a small shark classed vulnerable to extinction, globally - and, for one population in the north-east Atlantic, endangered, was the main shark being sold at chip shops, under the generic name huss, rock, rock salmon or rock eel. The shark was probably imported from areas where stocks are sustainable, and generic names are permitted - but the scientists say it is difficult for customers to tell exactly what type of shark they are eating and where it comes from. "It's almost impossible for consumers to know what they are buying," said Catherine Hobbs, also of the University of Exeter. "People might think they're getting a sustainably sourced product when they're actually buying a threatened species." The scalloped hammerhead shark was identified among 10 shark fins imported for the UK restaurant trade. The fins are often used to make soup, a celebratory dish in some Asian cuisines. How do we know that sharks are ending up on the British dinner plate? Once shark meat is processed, it is difficult to tell which species it comes from. Therefore, the scientists carried out DNA tests to see what was entering the human food chain. They gathered more than 100 samples from chip shops and supermarkets in southern England. They also looked at dried shark fins imported into the UK. A type of DNA analysis, known as DNA bar-coding, gave an insight into the shark species on sale. A fragment of DNA can be matched with an online database known as the bar-code of life to identify the animal. What did the study find? Of the 78 samples on sale at chips shops in 2016 and 2017, about 90% came from the spiny dogfish. Landing this shark is generally not permitted under EU rules, although that on sale was probably sourced from more sustainable stocks elsewhere, then imported and frozen, the scientists say. Of the 39 fresh and frozen samples obtained from fishmongers, about half were assigned to Mustelus asterias (starry smooth hound), a type of hound-shark. This shark is judged of least concern in terms of extinction risk. The Sphyrna lewini (scalloped hammerhead) was found in three of 10 dried shark fins on sale in the UK. These may have been imported and stored before international restrictions came into force in 2014. This shark, which is not found in UK waters, is targeted for its fins and is in decline. Commenting on the study, Simon Walmsley, Chief Marine Adviser at WWF said: "Endangered shark species shouldn't be ending up on people's plates as their weekend takeaway, particularly the spiny dogfish which is vulnerable and threatened with extinction." Where is shark meat eaten? Shark meat is eaten across the world and has been part of the human diet for centuries. But between 2000 and 2011, global imports of sharks, skates, rays and other cartilaginous fishes rose by 42%, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The international trade in 12 species is regulated because of concern over extinction risks. But there is debate among scientists over which - if any - sharks can be regarded as sustainable and harvested for food. "Sharks are inherently more vulnerable to overfishing because they don't produce many eggs and they take a long time to reach maturity - to be able to produce offspring," said Dr Griffiths. Follow Helen on Twitter.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Helen BriggsBBC News DNA tests show that shark products destined for restaurants include two species vulnerable to extinction. Consumers may be unaware what shark they are eating - and whether it is from a sustainable population, British scientists say. The UK is playing a continuing role in the "damaging trade in endangered shark species", they say. One of the two threatened sharks identified - the scalloped hammerhead - is subject to international restrictions. University of Exeter researchers say, despite the small number of samples studied, they have demonstrated the sale of threatened sharks, highlighting the global nature of the damaging trade in endangered species. "The discovery of scalloped hammerheads in shark fins that were destined to be sold in the UK highlights how widespread the sale of these endangered species really is," Dr Andrew Griffiths told BBC News. The research, reported in the journal Scientific Reports, examined both shark fins destined for restaurants and shark steaks sold in fishmongers and chip shops. It found that Squalus acanthias (spiny dogfish), a small shark classed vulnerable to extinction, globally - and, for one population in the north-east Atlantic, endangered, was the main shark being sold at chip shops, under the generic name huss, rock, rock salmon or rock eel. The shark was probably imported from areas where stocks are sustainable, and generic names are permitted - but the scientists say it is difficult for customers to tell exactly what type of shark they are eating and where it comes from. "It's almost impossible for consumers to know what they are buying," said Catherine Hobbs, also of the University of Exeter. "People might think they're getting a sustainably sourced product when they're actually buying a threatened species." The scalloped hammerhead shark was identified among 10 shark fins imported for the UK restaurant trade. The fins are often used to make soup, a celebratory dish in some Asian cuisines. How do we know that sharks are ending up on the British dinner plate? Once shark meat is processed, it is difficult to tell which species it comes from. Therefore, the scientists carried out DNA tests to see what was entering the human food chain. They gathered more than 100 samples from chip shops and supermarkets in southern England. They also looked at dried shark fins imported into the UK. A type of DNA analysis, known as DNA bar-coding, gave an insight into the shark species on sale. A fragment of DNA can be matched with an online database known as the bar-code of life to identify the animal. What did the study find? Of the 78 samples on sale at chips shops in 2016 and 2017, about 90% came from the spiny dogfish. Landing this shark is generally not permitted under EU rules, although that on sale was probably sourced from more sustainable stocks elsewhere, then imported and frozen, the scientists say. Of the 39 fresh and frozen samples obtained from fishmongers, about half were assigned to Mustelus asterias (starry smooth hound), a type of hound-shark. This shark is judged of least concern in terms of extinction risk. The Sphyrna lewini (scalloped hammerhead) was found in three of 10 dried shark fins on sale in the UK. These may have been imported and stored before international restrictions came into force in 2014. This shark, which is not found in UK waters, is targeted for its fins and is in decline. Commenting on the study, Simon Walmsley, Chief Marine Adviser at WWF said: "Endangered shark species shouldn't be ending up on people's plates as their weekend takeaway, particularly the spiny dogfish which is vulnerable and threatened with extinction." Where is shark meat eaten? Shark meat is eaten across the world and has been part of the human diet for centuries. But between 2000 and 2011, global imports of sharks, skates, rays and other cartilaginous fishes rose by 42%, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The international trade in 12 species is regulated because of concern over extinction risks. But there is debate among scientists over which - if any - sharks can be regarded as sustainable and harvested for food. "Sharks are inherently more vulnerable to overfishing because they don't produce many eggs and they take a long time to reach maturity - to be able to produce offspring," said Dr Griffiths. Follow Helen on Twitter. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Helen BriggsBBC News DNA tests show that shark products destined for restaurants include two species vulnerable to extinction. Consumers may be unaware what shark they are eating - and whether it is from a sustainable population, British scientists say. The UK is playing a continuing role in the "damaging trade in endangered shark species", they say. One of the two threatened sharks identified - the scalloped hammerhead - is subject to international restrictions. University of Exeter researchers say, despite the small number of samples studied, they have demonstrated the sale of threatened sharks, highlighting the global nature of the damaging trade in endangered species. "The discovery of scalloped hammerheads in shark fins that were destined to be sold in the UK highlights how widespread the sale of these endangered species really is," Dr Andrew Griffiths told BBC News. The research, reported in the journal Scientific Reports, examined both shark fins destined for restaurants and shark steaks sold in fishmongers and chip shops. It found that Squalus acanthias (spiny dogfish), a small shark classed vulnerable to extinction, globally - and, for one population in the north-east Atlantic, endangered, was the main shark being sold at chip shops, under the generic name huss, rock, rock salmon or rock eel. The shark was probably imported from areas where stocks are sustainable, and generic names are permitted - but the scientists say it is difficult for customers to tell exactly what type of shark they are eating and where it comes from. "It's almost impossible for consumers to know what they are buying," said Catherine Hobbs, also of the University of Exeter. "People might think they're getting a sustainably sourced product when they're actually buying a threatened species." The scalloped hammerhead shark was identified among 10 shark fins imported for the UK restaurant trade. The fins are often used to make soup, a celebratory dish in some Asian cuisines. How do we know that sharks are ending up on the British dinner plate? Once shark meat is processed, it is difficult to tell which species it comes from. Therefore, the scientists carried out DNA tests to see what was entering the human food chain. They gathered more than 100 samples from chip shops and supermarkets in southern England. They also looked at dried shark fins imported into the UK. A type of DNA analysis, known as DNA bar-coding, gave an insight into the shark species on sale. A fragment of DNA can be matched with an online database known as the bar-code of life to identify the animal. What did the study find? Of the 78 samples on sale at chips shops in 2016 and 2017, about 90% came from the spiny dogfish. Landing this shark is generally not permitted under EU rules, although that on sale was probably sourced from more sustainable stocks elsewhere, then imported and frozen, the scientists say. Of the 39 fresh and frozen samples obtained from fishmongers, about half were assigned to Mustelus asterias (starry smooth hound), a type of hound-shark. This shark is judged of least concern in terms of extinction risk. The Sphyrna lewini (scalloped hammerhead) was found in three of 10 dried shark fins on sale in the UK. These may have been imported and stored before international restrictions came into force in 2014. This shark, which is not found in UK waters, is targeted for its fins and is in decline. Commenting on the study, Simon Walmsley, Chief Marine Adviser at WWF said: "Endangered shark species shouldn't be ending up on people's plates as their weekend takeaway, particularly the spiny dogfish which is vulnerable and threatened with extinction." Where is shark meat eaten? Shark meat is eaten across the world and has been part of the human diet for centuries. But between 2000 and 2011, global imports of sharks, skates, rays and other cartilaginous fishes rose by 42%, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The international trade in 12 species is regulated because of concern over extinction risks. But there is debate among scientists over which - if any - sharks can be regarded as sustainable and harvested for food. "Sharks are inherently more vulnerable to overfishing because they don't produce many eggs and they take a long time to reach maturity - to be able to produce offspring," said Dr Griffiths. Follow Helen on Twitter. ### Summary: A study has found that shark fins are being sold in the UK. ### Text: A study has found that shark fins are being sold in the UK. ### Summary: A study has found that

world-europe-53692476

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-53692476

Mont Blanc: Glacier collapse risk forces Italy Alps evacuation

A glacier in the Alps has been evacuated after a heatwave.

Planpincieux glacier, in the Mont Blanc massif, has weakened because of intense summer heat alternating with night-time cold. It lies above Val Ferret valley, near Courmayeur ski resort. A local environmental risk expert said the fragile ice could fall at any time. The threatening glacier section is about the size of Milan cathedral. The risk manager, Valerio Segor, said "the water flowing underneath can, in fact, act as a slide" and they faced "the risk of immediate collapse". The fragile 500,000 cubic metres (18m cu ft) of glacier is being monitored with aerial photography and radar. Roads leading to Val Ferret, a popular area for hikers, have been closed off. A similar alert and evacuation took place last September, because of the unusually hot Alpine summer, attributed to global warming. The glacier is at a height of 2,600-2,800 metres (8,500-9,200 ft). The Mont Blanc massif is the highest mountain in western Europe, at over 4,800m. A Courmayeur official, Moreno Vignolini, said the heatwave had accelerated the glacier's melting rate, pushing it as high as 50-60cm (16-23in) a day.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Planpincieux glacier, in the Mont Blanc massif, has weakened because of intense summer heat alternating with night-time cold. It lies above Val Ferret valley, near Courmayeur ski resort. A local environmental risk expert said the fragile ice could fall at any time. The threatening glacier section is about the size of Milan cathedral. The risk manager, Valerio Segor, said "the water flowing underneath can, in fact, act as a slide" and they faced "the risk of immediate collapse". The fragile 500,000 cubic metres (18m cu ft) of glacier is being monitored with aerial photography and radar. Roads leading to Val Ferret, a popular area for hikers, have been closed off. A similar alert and evacuation took place last September, because of the unusually hot Alpine summer, attributed to global warming. The glacier is at a height of 2,600-2,800 metres (8,500-9,200 ft). The Mont Blanc massif is the highest mountain in western Europe, at over 4,800m. A Courmayeur official, Moreno Vignolini, said the heatwave had accelerated the glacier's melting rate, pushing it as high as 50-60cm (16-23in) a day. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Planpincieux glacier, in the Mont Blanc massif, has weakened because of intense summer heat alternating with night-time cold. It lies above Val Ferret valley, near Courmayeur ski resort. A local environmental risk expert said the fragile ice could fall at any time. The threatening glacier section is about the size of Milan cathedral. The risk manager, Valerio Segor, said "the water flowing underneath can, in fact, act as a slide" and they faced "the risk of immediate collapse". The fragile 500,000 cubic metres (18m cu ft) of glacier is being monitored with aerial photography and radar. Roads leading to Val Ferret, a popular area for hikers, have been closed off. A similar alert and evacuation took place last September, because of the unusually hot Alpine summer, attributed to global warming. The glacier is at a height of 2,600-2,800 metres (8,500-9,200 ft). The Mont Blanc massif is the highest mountain in western Europe, at over 4,800m. A Courmayeur official, Moreno Vignolini, said the heatwave had accelerated the glacier's melting rate, pushing it as high as 50-60cm (16-23in) a day. ### Summary: A glacier in the Alps has been evacuated after a heatwave. ### Next: A glacier in the Alps has been evacuated after a heatwave. ### Next: A gla

entertainment-arts-26226850

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-26226850

JK Rowling to publish second crime thriller in June

A new novel by Robert Rowling will be published in North Yorkshire.

Published on 19 June, The Silkworm will again feature Cormoran Strike, the private detective Rowling introduced in 2013's The Cuckoo's Calling. The author's pseudonym was unmasked last year after the information was leaked by a member of her legal team. The new novel sees Strike on the trail of a novelist's murderer. Along with his assistant Robin Ellacott, he will probe the death of a writer whose latest manuscript would have ruined several lives had it been published. It has also been announced that Rowling will discuss her new career as a crime writer at a literary festival in North Yorkshire. The 48-year-old will appear in conversation with Val McDermid at Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate on 18 July. Writing last year, Rowling said that 'Robert' "fully intends to keep writing" but would "probably continue to turn down personal appearances".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Published on 19 June, The Silkworm will again feature Cormoran Strike, the private detective Rowling introduced in 2013's The Cuckoo's Calling. The author's pseudonym was unmasked last year after the information was leaked by a member of her legal team. The new novel sees Strike on the trail of a novelist's murderer. Along with his assistant Robin Ellacott, he will probe the death of a writer whose latest manuscript would have ruined several lives had it been published. It has also been announced that Rowling will discuss her new career as a crime writer at a literary festival in North Yorkshire. The 48-year-old will appear in conversation with Val McDermid at Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate on 18 July. Writing last year, Rowling said that 'Robert' "fully intends to keep writing" but would "probably continue to turn down personal appearances". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Published on 19 June, The Silkworm will again feature Cormoran Strike, the private detective Rowling introduced in 2013's The Cuckoo's Calling. The author's pseudonym was unmasked last year after the information was leaked by a member of her legal team. The new novel sees Strike on the trail of a novelist's murderer. Along with his assistant Robin Ellacott, he will probe the death of a writer whose latest manuscript would have ruined several lives had it been published. It has also been announced that Rowling will discuss her new career as a crime writer at a literary festival in North Yorkshire. The 48-year-old will appear in conversation with Val McDermid at Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate on 18 July. Writing last year, Rowling said that 'Robert' "fully intends to keep writing" but would "probably continue to turn down personal appearances". ### Summary: A new novel by Robert Rowling will be published in North Yorkshire. ### Text: Rowling's new novel will be published in North Yorkshire. ### Summary: A new novel by Robert Row

world-latin-america-53746715

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-53746715

Mexico: Ex-President Enrique Peña Nieto accused of corruption and bribery

Mexico's former president has been charged with bribery in a corruption case.

It comes after Emilio Lozoya, the ex-head of the state energy firm, accused Mr Peña Nieto of taking millions of dollars in bribes and bribing MPs. Mr Lozoya was extradited from Spain last month to stand trial on corruption charges linked to Brazil's construction giant Odebrecht. Mr Peña Nieto, who was in office in 2012-18, has so far made no comments. Last year, a witness testifying at a US trial of Mexico's drug cartel kingpin Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán said Mr Peña Nieto had accepted a $100m (£77m) bribe from the mobster. The ex-president also made no comments on that allegation, but he has previously rejected allegations of corruption. What did Emilio Lozoya say? Mr Lozoya was a former top official during Mr Peña Nieto's 2012 campaign, and head of the state-owned oil giant Pemex from 2012 to 2016. Mr Lozoya said Mr Peña Nieto and former Finance Minister Luis Videgaray had ordered him to funnel more than $4m in bribes from Odebrecht into the 2012 presidential election campaign. In a second allegation, Mr Lozoya said that once in power Mr Peña Nieto and Mr Videgaray used a similar amount to bribe lawmakers to ensure the passage of a crucial energy reform bill through parliament. Mr Lozoya said he could bring in four witnesses, as well as video and other documents to back up his accusations. Mr Lozoya was one of the most powerful figures in Mexico when he was the president's adviser. Neither Mr Peña Nieto nor Mr Videgaray have commented on the specific allegations against them. They have not been charged with anything. However, Mexican Attorney General Alejandro Gertz considered the testimony important enough to have launched an investigation into the matter. In the past, no former president in Mexico has gone to jail despite successive governments being tainted by widespread corruption, the BBC's Mexico correspondent Will Grant says. Incumbent President Andrés Manuel López Obrador had earlier said he was not in favour of bringing charges against his predecessor - but would defer to any decision reached by the attorney general.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It comes after Emilio Lozoya, the ex-head of the state energy firm, accused Mr Peña Nieto of taking millions of dollars in bribes and bribing MPs. Mr Lozoya was extradited from Spain last month to stand trial on corruption charges linked to Brazil's construction giant Odebrecht. Mr Peña Nieto, who was in office in 2012-18, has so far made no comments. Last year, a witness testifying at a US trial of Mexico's drug cartel kingpin Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán said Mr Peña Nieto had accepted a $100m (£77m) bribe from the mobster. The ex-president also made no comments on that allegation, but he has previously rejected allegations of corruption. What did Emilio Lozoya say? Mr Lozoya was a former top official during Mr Peña Nieto's 2012 campaign, and head of the state-owned oil giant Pemex from 2012 to 2016. Mr Lozoya said Mr Peña Nieto and former Finance Minister Luis Videgaray had ordered him to funnel more than $4m in bribes from Odebrecht into the 2012 presidential election campaign. In a second allegation, Mr Lozoya said that once in power Mr Peña Nieto and Mr Videgaray used a similar amount to bribe lawmakers to ensure the passage of a crucial energy reform bill through parliament. Mr Lozoya said he could bring in four witnesses, as well as video and other documents to back up his accusations. Mr Lozoya was one of the most powerful figures in Mexico when he was the president's adviser. Neither Mr Peña Nieto nor Mr Videgaray have commented on the specific allegations against them. They have not been charged with anything. However, Mexican Attorney General Alejandro Gertz considered the testimony important enough to have launched an investigation into the matter. In the past, no former president in Mexico has gone to jail despite successive governments being tainted by widespread corruption, the BBC's Mexico correspondent Will Grant says. Incumbent President Andrés Manuel López Obrador had earlier said he was not in favour of bringing charges against his predecessor - but would defer to any decision reached by the attorney general. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It comes after Emilio Lozoya, the ex-head of the state energy firm, accused Mr Peña Nieto of taking millions of dollars in bribes and bribing MPs. Mr Lozoya was extradited from Spain last month to stand trial on corruption charges linked to Brazil's construction giant Odebrecht. Mr Peña Nieto, who was in office in 2012-18, has so far made no comments. Last year, a witness testifying at a US trial of Mexico's drug cartel kingpin Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán said Mr Peña Nieto had accepted a $100m (£77m) bribe from the mobster. The ex-president also made no comments on that allegation, but he has previously rejected allegations of corruption. What did Emilio Lozoya say? Mr Lozoya was a former top official during Mr Peña Nieto's 2012 campaign, and head of the state-owned oil giant Pemex from 2012 to 2016. Mr Lozoya said Mr Peña Nieto and former Finance Minister Luis Videgaray had ordered him to funnel more than $4m in bribes from Odebrecht into the 2012 presidential election campaign. In a second allegation, Mr Lozoya said that once in power Mr Peña Nieto and Mr Videgaray used a similar amount to bribe lawmakers to ensure the passage of a crucial energy reform bill through parliament. Mr Lozoya said he could bring in four witnesses, as well as video and other documents to back up his accusations. Mr Lozoya was one of the most powerful figures in Mexico when he was the president's adviser. Neither Mr Peña Nieto nor Mr Videgaray have commented on the specific allegations against them. They have not been charged with anything. However, Mexican Attorney General Alejandro Gertz considered the testimony important enough to have launched an investigation into the matter. In the past, no former president in Mexico has gone to jail despite successive governments being tainted by widespread corruption, the BBC's Mexico correspondent Will Grant says. Incumbent President Andrés Manuel López Obrador had earlier said he was not in favour of bringing charges against his predecessor - but would defer to any decision reached by the attorney general. ### Summary: Mexico's former president has been charged with bribery in a corruption case. ### Next: Mexico's former president has been charged with bribery in a corruption case. ###

business-17357626

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-17357626

Hungary aid frozen by EU over budget deficit

The EU has allowed Hungary to run a deficit of 3% of GDP this year, the first time it has done so.

This is the first case of the EU taking action over the budget deficit of any of its members. But the EU will allow three months for Hungary to pass more budget cuts. The decision came as the EU also allowed Spain to run a higher deficit, leading Austria to accuse the EU of applying "double standards". Spain will have to cut its deficit to 5.3% of GDP this year - higher than the 4.4% that Spain was originally told to target. But the EU's monetary affairs commissioner Olli Rehn said that "different deadlines" meant direct comparisons of the Spanish and Hungarian cases were not valid, as Hungary had already been given an extension. The EU's Excessive Deficit Procedure rules say EU member states should keep their budget deficits below 3% of national output (GDP) and government debts below, or sufficiently declining towards, 60% of GDP. Hungary is forecast to run a deficit of 3% this year and 3.6% next year. Its total debt is 82% of its output. Danish economy minister Margrethe Vestager said that the EU would reassess its decision on Hungary in June. Hungary's neighbour, Austria, had wanted to postpone the decision to suspend funds because of worries that Hungary would not be able to get a IMF loan. Vienna would have "preferred to give Hungary more time to adjust," said Austrian Finance Minister Maria Fekter. Hungary had been in talks with the IMF and was given a 20bn-euro standby loan by the IMF in 2008 to prevent it having to default on its debts. New Spain target Spain was supposed to reduce its public deficit to 6% last year, but the most recent estimates put the 2011 deficit at 8.5%. On Monday, eurozone finance ministers allowed Spain to run a deficit of 5.3% of GDP this year. However, last week, Spain said that its deficit would be 5.8% in 2012, with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy saying that this still represented "significant austerity". The country has the highest jobless rate in the EU, with almost one in four people out of work. Spain will have to bring its deficit back down beneath 3% by next year, the EU said. Meanwhile, Greece was upgraded by Fitch Ratings on Tuesday, after its second bailout was approved by the eurozone and it managed to win a debt swap to reduce its debt by half. The country's sovereign debt rating was upgraded four notches, to B- from being in restricted default. A "B" rating indicates that the debt is highly speculative and that a "material credit risk" is still present.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: This is the first case of the EU taking action over the budget deficit of any of its members. But the EU will allow three months for Hungary to pass more budget cuts. The decision came as the EU also allowed Spain to run a higher deficit, leading Austria to accuse the EU of applying "double standards". Spain will have to cut its deficit to 5.3% of GDP this year - higher than the 4.4% that Spain was originally told to target. But the EU's monetary affairs commissioner Olli Rehn said that "different deadlines" meant direct comparisons of the Spanish and Hungarian cases were not valid, as Hungary had already been given an extension. The EU's Excessive Deficit Procedure rules say EU member states should keep their budget deficits below 3% of national output (GDP) and government debts below, or sufficiently declining towards, 60% of GDP. Hungary is forecast to run a deficit of 3% this year and 3.6% next year. Its total debt is 82% of its output. Danish economy minister Margrethe Vestager said that the EU would reassess its decision on Hungary in June. Hungary's neighbour, Austria, had wanted to postpone the decision to suspend funds because of worries that Hungary would not be able to get a IMF loan. Vienna would have "preferred to give Hungary more time to adjust," said Austrian Finance Minister Maria Fekter. Hungary had been in talks with the IMF and was given a 20bn-euro standby loan by the IMF in 2008 to prevent it having to default on its debts. New Spain target Spain was supposed to reduce its public deficit to 6% last year, but the most recent estimates put the 2011 deficit at 8.5%. On Monday, eurozone finance ministers allowed Spain to run a deficit of 5.3% of GDP this year. However, last week, Spain said that its deficit would be 5.8% in 2012, with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy saying that this still represented "significant austerity". The country has the highest jobless rate in the EU, with almost one in four people out of work. Spain will have to bring its deficit back down beneath 3% by next year, the EU said. Meanwhile, Greece was upgraded by Fitch Ratings on Tuesday, after its second bailout was approved by the eurozone and it managed to win a debt swap to reduce its debt by half. The country's sovereign debt rating was upgraded four notches, to B- from being in restricted default. A "B" rating indicates that the debt is highly speculative and that a "material credit risk" is still present. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: This is the first case of the EU taking action over the budget deficit of any of its members. But the EU will allow three months for Hungary to pass more budget cuts. The decision came as the EU also allowed Spain to run a higher deficit, leading Austria to accuse the EU of applying "double standards". Spain will have to cut its deficit to 5.3% of GDP this year - higher than the 4.4% that Spain was originally told to target. But the EU's monetary affairs commissioner Olli Rehn said that "different deadlines" meant direct comparisons of the Spanish and Hungarian cases were not valid, as Hungary had already been given an extension. The EU's Excessive Deficit Procedure rules say EU member states should keep their budget deficits below 3% of national output (GDP) and government debts below, or sufficiently declining towards, 60% of GDP. Hungary is forecast to run a deficit of 3% this year and 3.6% next year. Its total debt is 82% of its output. Danish economy minister Margrethe Vestager said that the EU would reassess its decision on Hungary in June. Hungary's neighbour, Austria, had wanted to postpone the decision to suspend funds because of worries that Hungary would not be able to get a IMF loan. Vienna would have "preferred to give Hungary more time to adjust," said Austrian Finance Minister Maria Fekter. Hungary had been in talks with the IMF and was given a 20bn-euro standby loan by the IMF in 2008 to prevent it having to default on its debts. New Spain target Spain was supposed to reduce its public deficit to 6% last year, but the most recent estimates put the 2011 deficit at 8.5%. On Monday, eurozone finance ministers allowed Spain to run a deficit of 5.3% of GDP this year. However, last week, Spain said that its deficit would be 5.8% in 2012, with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy saying that this still represented "significant austerity". The country has the highest jobless rate in the EU, with almost one in four people out of work. Spain will have to bring its deficit back down beneath 3% by next year, the EU said. Meanwhile, Greece was upgraded by Fitch Ratings on Tuesday, after its second bailout was approved by the eurozone and it managed to win a debt swap to reduce its debt by half. The country's sovereign debt rating was upgraded four notches, to B- from being in restricted default. A "B" rating indicates that the debt is highly speculative and that a "material credit risk" is still present. ### Summary: The EU has allowed Hungary to run a deficit of 3% of GDP this year, the first time it has done so. ### Text: The EU has allowed Hungary to run a deficit of

world-us-canada-19582693

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-19582693

Obama talks tough

President Barack Obama has spoken to the father and mother of Chris Stevens, the ambassador who was killed in the attack on the US embassy in Libya.

Mark MardellNorth America editor@BBCMarkMardellon Twitter He went on: "No act of violence will shake the resolve of the United States of America... we will keep going, we will keep going because the world needs us. We are the one indispensable power in the world." He's spoken to the father and mother of Chris Stevens, the ambassador who was killed in the attack and told them justice would be done. In a TV interview he said: "we go after anybody who would attack Americans." It would seem, after talk like that, that failure is not an option. He's backed up his version of American exceptionalism by moving two warships off the coast of Libya and sending 50 marines from an anti-terrorist squad to the country. The Pentagon won't comment on reports that drones are being flown across eastern Libya searching for possible militant camps. 'Playing politics' It is clear his response to the first killing of an American ambassador for 30 years is an election issue. Mitt Romney seized on a statement from the Cairo embassy to argue that the president was keen to apologise for American values and was sending mixed messages. He repeated this argument forcefully at a news conference even before the president had made a statement in the Rose Garden. If you want to know what the commentators think of Mr Romney's strategy you can choose between "noxious and indecent", "rash and shameful", "craven and ill-advised" or "unfair and hyperbolic". Although the latter is from Senator McCain's former chief of staff, conservatives have a point when they say most of the condemnation comes from liberals in the "mainstream media". There are those who defend Mr Romney, but in the last two years of following him I can't remember such unity of scorn from the media. President Obama has joined in, accusing Mr Romney of shooting first and aiming later saying: "As president, one of the things I've learned is you can't do that, that it's important for you to make sure that the statements you make are backed up by the facts, and that you've thought through the ramifications before you make them." This has yet to play out, but Mitt Romney stands accused of playing politics with a tragedy - a dangerous game when the president holds most of the cards. UPDATE: My colleague Regan Morris was at the Las Vegas rally on Wednesday night and sent this report on the mood in the crowd: President Obama started on a sombre note, by quelling cheers of "four more years" to mourn the loss of four Americans in Libya and send "heartfelt prayers to their loved ones". But many said they were more concerned about jobs and the economy. Nevada, a swing state, has the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 12%. Still Libya overshadowed the event: "I hope he doesn't start another war," Stanley Sabbath said. "He's got to figure out how they'll go about resolving it - without starting a war." Andrew Davis, 20, brought his newborn daughter Gabrielle. "I'm more concerned with jobs. We have this little one we're trying to support now and it's not easy," Mr Davis said. Many at the rally did not realise that the American consulate in Libya had been attacked. As the president spoke, people in the crowd murmured: "Libya? What happened in Libya?" After the rally, an undecided voter said he was still sitting on the fence about who to vote for and feared neither Barack Obama nor Mitt Romney could respond to the situation in Libya without more conflict: "It's terrible - we might be in for another road of heartache here," he said.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mark MardellNorth America editor@BBCMarkMardellon Twitter He went on: "No act of violence will shake the resolve of the United States of America... we will keep going, we will keep going because the world needs us. We are the one indispensable power in the world." He's spoken to the father and mother of Chris Stevens, the ambassador who was killed in the attack and told them justice would be done. In a TV interview he said: "we go after anybody who would attack Americans." It would seem, after talk like that, that failure is not an option. He's backed up his version of American exceptionalism by moving two warships off the coast of Libya and sending 50 marines from an anti-terrorist squad to the country. The Pentagon won't comment on reports that drones are being flown across eastern Libya searching for possible militant camps. 'Playing politics' It is clear his response to the first killing of an American ambassador for 30 years is an election issue. Mitt Romney seized on a statement from the Cairo embassy to argue that the president was keen to apologise for American values and was sending mixed messages. He repeated this argument forcefully at a news conference even before the president had made a statement in the Rose Garden. If you want to know what the commentators think of Mr Romney's strategy you can choose between "noxious and indecent", "rash and shameful", "craven and ill-advised" or "unfair and hyperbolic". Although the latter is from Senator McCain's former chief of staff, conservatives have a point when they say most of the condemnation comes from liberals in the "mainstream media". There are those who defend Mr Romney, but in the last two years of following him I can't remember such unity of scorn from the media. President Obama has joined in, accusing Mr Romney of shooting first and aiming later saying: "As president, one of the things I've learned is you can't do that, that it's important for you to make sure that the statements you make are backed up by the facts, and that you've thought through the ramifications before you make them." This has yet to play out, but Mitt Romney stands accused of playing politics with a tragedy - a dangerous game when the president holds most of the cards. UPDATE: My colleague Regan Morris was at the Las Vegas rally on Wednesday night and sent this report on the mood in the crowd: President Obama started on a sombre note, by quelling cheers of "four more years" to mourn the loss of four Americans in Libya and send "heartfelt prayers to their loved ones". But many said they were more concerned about jobs and the economy. Nevada, a swing state, has the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 12%. Still Libya overshadowed the event: "I hope he doesn't start another war," Stanley Sabbath said. "He's got to figure out how they'll go about resolving it - without starting a war." Andrew Davis, 20, brought his newborn daughter Gabrielle. "I'm more concerned with jobs. We have this little one we're trying to support now and it's not easy," Mr Davis said. Many at the rally did not realise that the American consulate in Libya had been attacked. As the president spoke, people in the crowd murmured: "Libya? What happened in Libya?" After the rally, an undecided voter said he was still sitting on the fence about who to vote for and feared neither Barack Obama nor Mitt Romney could respond to the situation in Libya without more conflict: "It's terrible - we might be in for another road of heartache here," he said. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mark MardellNorth America editor@BBCMarkMardellon Twitter He went on: "No act of violence will shake the resolve of the United States of America... we will keep going, we will keep going because the world needs us. We are the one indispensable power in the world." He's spoken to the father and mother of Chris Stevens, the ambassador who was killed in the attack and told them justice would be done. In a TV interview he said: "we go after anybody who would attack Americans." It would seem, after talk like that, that failure is not an option. He's backed up his version of American exceptionalism by moving two warships off the coast of Libya and sending 50 marines from an anti-terrorist squad to the country. The Pentagon won't comment on reports that drones are being flown across eastern Libya searching for possible militant camps. 'Playing politics' It is clear his response to the first killing of an American ambassador for 30 years is an election issue. Mitt Romney seized on a statement from the Cairo embassy to argue that the president was keen to apologise for American values and was sending mixed messages. He repeated this argument forcefully at a news conference even before the president had made a statement in the Rose Garden. If you want to know what the commentators think of Mr Romney's strategy you can choose between "noxious and indecent", "rash and shameful", "craven and ill-advised" or "unfair and hyperbolic". Although the latter is from Senator McCain's former chief of staff, conservatives have a point when they say most of the condemnation comes from liberals in the "mainstream media". There are those who defend Mr Romney, but in the last two years of following him I can't remember such unity of scorn from the media. President Obama has joined in, accusing Mr Romney of shooting first and aiming later saying: "As president, one of the things I've learned is you can't do that, that it's important for you to make sure that the statements you make are backed up by the facts, and that you've thought through the ramifications before you make them." This has yet to play out, but Mitt Romney stands accused of playing politics with a tragedy - a dangerous game when the president holds most of the cards. UPDATE: My colleague Regan Morris was at the Las Vegas rally on Wednesday night and sent this report on the mood in the crowd: President Obama started on a sombre note, by quelling cheers of "four more years" to mourn the loss of four Americans in Libya and send "heartfelt prayers to their loved ones". But many said they were more concerned about jobs and the economy. Nevada, a swing state, has the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 12%. Still Libya overshadowed the event: "I hope he doesn't start another war," Stanley Sabbath said. "He's got to figure out how they'll go about resolving it - without starting a war." Andrew Davis, 20, brought his newborn daughter Gabrielle. "I'm more concerned with jobs. We have this little one we're trying to support now and it's not easy," Mr Davis said. Many at the rally did not realise that the American consulate in Libya had been attacked. As the president spoke, people in the crowd murmured: "Libya? What happened in Libya?" After the rally, an undecided voter said he was still sitting on the fence about who to vote for and feared neither Barack Obama nor Mitt Romney could respond to the situation in Libya without more conflict: "It's terrible - we might be in for another road of heartache here," he said. ### Summary: President Barack Obama has spoken to the father and mother of Chris Stevens, the ambassador who was killed in the attack on the US embassy in Libya. ### Spelling and grammar President Barack Obama has

uk-england-birmingham-45782117

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-birmingham-45782117

Attempted murder arrests over Selly Oak carjacking bid

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a teenager was stabbed in Birmingham.

The 22-year-old victim remains in hospital having been critically injured in the attack in an alleyway in Selly Oak, Birmingham, on Sunday. The boys, aged 15 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Sunday night, West Midlands Police said. A girl, 15, was arrested for conspiracy to rob. They all remain in custody. The victim and his friend had been chased by two teenagers who approached them and demanded the keys to their parked car, in the early hours of the morning. The two men had just parked the car following a night out. Det Insp Caroline Corfield said a damaged silver Nissan Micra, which is believed to have been involved in the incident, was recovered.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The 22-year-old victim remains in hospital having been critically injured in the attack in an alleyway in Selly Oak, Birmingham, on Sunday. The boys, aged 15 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Sunday night, West Midlands Police said. A girl, 15, was arrested for conspiracy to rob. They all remain in custody. The victim and his friend had been chased by two teenagers who approached them and demanded the keys to their parked car, in the early hours of the morning. The two men had just parked the car following a night out. Det Insp Caroline Corfield said a damaged silver Nissan Micra, which is believed to have been involved in the incident, was recovered. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The 22-year-old victim remains in hospital having been critically injured in the attack in an alleyway in Selly Oak, Birmingham, on Sunday. The boys, aged 15 and 17, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder on Sunday night, West Midlands Police said. A girl, 15, was arrested for conspiracy to rob. They all remain in custody. The victim and his friend had been chased by two teenagers who approached them and demanded the keys to their parked car, in the early hours of the morning. The two men had just parked the car following a night out. Det Insp Caroline Corfield said a damaged silver Nissan Micra, which is believed to have been involved in the incident, was recovered. ### Summary: A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a teenager was stabbed in Birmingham. ### Text: A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a teenager was stab

world-europe-52308453

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-52308453

Coronavirus: Free our children from lockdown, says Barcelona mayor

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a nationwide lockdown for children.

"These children need to get out," Ada Colau wrote on Facebook, herself the mother of youngsters aged three and nine. "Wait no more: Free our children!" Spain - which has the most confirmed cases in Europe - is the only Western European country where children cannot leave home at all. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the nationwide lockdown on 14 March. It has since been extended until at least 26 April - though people in construction, manufacturing and some service jobs were allowed to return to work this week. Rules for children differ widely from country to country, with schools and kindergartens already reopening in Denmark on Wednesday. According to Johns Hopkins University data, worldwide cases of the virus have risen to more than two million. While the spread of infections appears to be easing in much of Europe, the continent has recorded hundreds of thousands of infections - with Spain alone accounting for 19,130 deaths and almost 183,000 cases. A further 551 deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, officials said on Thursday. One of the main centres of the Spanish outbreak has been in the Catalonia region of which Barcelona is the capital. Hans Kluge, World Health Organization's Europe director, said on Thursday while there were "optimistic signs" in Europe, the next few weeks would be "critical". What did the mayor say? The left-wing mayor - the first woman to hold the position in Barcelona - made her plea in a Facebook post on Wednesday. "Week after week, they fight each other more ever day, they have fits of sadness, anger," she wrote, saying that like many other parents she worried about the "psychological and emotional health" of her children. "If adults can go out to walk the dog... why must our children keep waiting?" Ms Colau argues that children should be allowed out in their local area, as in other countries, "in accordance with health experts' advice". "We are tired of being told that we are soldiers and this is a war, instead of talking about how to take care of our lives and each other." The decision to keep children inside is becoming increasingly controversial in Spain. Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias has come under fire after he said he was "very lucky" his three children have a garden, adding he was "aware that millions of families had children in their apartments of 40, 50 or 60m". Conservative politician Mario Gracés Sanagustín tweeted it was "not lucky" he had a garden but in fact part of his "social shield". Save the Children's Spanish branch is calling for children to be allowed outside near their homes for an hour each day. Andrés Conde told AFP news agency that they were "one of the most vulnerable populations during this prolonged confinement". The Spanish Obesity Society (SEEDO) estimates that children will gain on average about 5% of their body weight in lockdown due to lack of exercise and the risk of unhealthy eating. What's the situation elsewhere in Europe? Spain's decision to keep children indoors is stricter than anywhere else in Europe, but there is a wide debate about children in lockdown. Other countries have set age limits for going outside. Under-18s can only go outside in Poland and Bosnia if accompanied by an adult, while Italy - the country with Europe's highest recorded number of deaths at 21,645 - allows all children out if they are with a parent. France requires everyone to carry a signed form explaining why they are outside. Parents must sign the form for their children. Elsewhere, however, children are already returning to education. Denmark reopened primary schools and kindergartens on Wednesday. Norway plans to follow suit shortly, with kindergartens set to open their doors on 20 April and primary schools a week later. Both Iceland and Sweden never closed their primary schools, with Iceland set to reopen high schools and universities on 4 May. German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced on Wednesday that pupils would slowly start to return to class on 4 May, with priority given to those with school exams. However, she said there would need to be new rules for break times and school buses, saying it would require "a great logistical effort" to ensure students' safety.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: "These children need to get out," Ada Colau wrote on Facebook, herself the mother of youngsters aged three and nine. "Wait no more: Free our children!" Spain - which has the most confirmed cases in Europe - is the only Western European country where children cannot leave home at all. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the nationwide lockdown on 14 March. It has since been extended until at least 26 April - though people in construction, manufacturing and some service jobs were allowed to return to work this week. Rules for children differ widely from country to country, with schools and kindergartens already reopening in Denmark on Wednesday. According to Johns Hopkins University data, worldwide cases of the virus have risen to more than two million. While the spread of infections appears to be easing in much of Europe, the continent has recorded hundreds of thousands of infections - with Spain alone accounting for 19,130 deaths and almost 183,000 cases. A further 551 deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, officials said on Thursday. One of the main centres of the Spanish outbreak has been in the Catalonia region of which Barcelona is the capital. Hans Kluge, World Health Organization's Europe director, said on Thursday while there were "optimistic signs" in Europe, the next few weeks would be "critical". What did the mayor say? The left-wing mayor - the first woman to hold the position in Barcelona - made her plea in a Facebook post on Wednesday. "Week after week, they fight each other more ever day, they have fits of sadness, anger," she wrote, saying that like many other parents she worried about the "psychological and emotional health" of her children. "If adults can go out to walk the dog... why must our children keep waiting?" Ms Colau argues that children should be allowed out in their local area, as in other countries, "in accordance with health experts' advice". "We are tired of being told that we are soldiers and this is a war, instead of talking about how to take care of our lives and each other." The decision to keep children inside is becoming increasingly controversial in Spain. Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias has come under fire after he said he was "very lucky" his three children have a garden, adding he was "aware that millions of families had children in their apartments of 40, 50 or 60m". Conservative politician Mario Gracés Sanagustín tweeted it was "not lucky" he had a garden but in fact part of his "social shield". Save the Children's Spanish branch is calling for children to be allowed outside near their homes for an hour each day. Andrés Conde told AFP news agency that they were "one of the most vulnerable populations during this prolonged confinement". The Spanish Obesity Society (SEEDO) estimates that children will gain on average about 5% of their body weight in lockdown due to lack of exercise and the risk of unhealthy eating. What's the situation elsewhere in Europe? Spain's decision to keep children indoors is stricter than anywhere else in Europe, but there is a wide debate about children in lockdown. Other countries have set age limits for going outside. Under-18s can only go outside in Poland and Bosnia if accompanied by an adult, while Italy - the country with Europe's highest recorded number of deaths at 21,645 - allows all children out if they are with a parent. France requires everyone to carry a signed form explaining why they are outside. Parents must sign the form for their children. Elsewhere, however, children are already returning to education. Denmark reopened primary schools and kindergartens on Wednesday. Norway plans to follow suit shortly, with kindergartens set to open their doors on 20 April and primary schools a week later. Both Iceland and Sweden never closed their primary schools, with Iceland set to reopen high schools and universities on 4 May. German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced on Wednesday that pupils would slowly start to return to class on 4 May, with priority given to those with school exams. However, she said there would need to be new rules for break times and school buses, saying it would require "a great logistical effort" to ensure students' safety. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: "These children need to get out," Ada Colau wrote on Facebook, herself the mother of youngsters aged three and nine. "Wait no more: Free our children!" Spain - which has the most confirmed cases in Europe - is the only Western European country where children cannot leave home at all. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the nationwide lockdown on 14 March. It has since been extended until at least 26 April - though people in construction, manufacturing and some service jobs were allowed to return to work this week. Rules for children differ widely from country to country, with schools and kindergartens already reopening in Denmark on Wednesday. According to Johns Hopkins University data, worldwide cases of the virus have risen to more than two million. While the spread of infections appears to be easing in much of Europe, the continent has recorded hundreds of thousands of infections - with Spain alone accounting for 19,130 deaths and almost 183,000 cases. A further 551 deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, officials said on Thursday. One of the main centres of the Spanish outbreak has been in the Catalonia region of which Barcelona is the capital. Hans Kluge, World Health Organization's Europe director, said on Thursday while there were "optimistic signs" in Europe, the next few weeks would be "critical". What did the mayor say? The left-wing mayor - the first woman to hold the position in Barcelona - made her plea in a Facebook post on Wednesday. "Week after week, they fight each other more ever day, they have fits of sadness, anger," she wrote, saying that like many other parents she worried about the "psychological and emotional health" of her children. "If adults can go out to walk the dog... why must our children keep waiting?" Ms Colau argues that children should be allowed out in their local area, as in other countries, "in accordance with health experts' advice". "We are tired of being told that we are soldiers and this is a war, instead of talking about how to take care of our lives and each other." The decision to keep children inside is becoming increasingly controversial in Spain. Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias has come under fire after he said he was "very lucky" his three children have a garden, adding he was "aware that millions of families had children in their apartments of 40, 50 or 60m". Conservative politician Mario Gracés Sanagustín tweeted it was "not lucky" he had a garden but in fact part of his "social shield". Save the Children's Spanish branch is calling for children to be allowed outside near their homes for an hour each day. Andrés Conde told AFP news agency that they were "one of the most vulnerable populations during this prolonged confinement". The Spanish Obesity Society (SEEDO) estimates that children will gain on average about 5% of their body weight in lockdown due to lack of exercise and the risk of unhealthy eating. What's the situation elsewhere in Europe? Spain's decision to keep children indoors is stricter than anywhere else in Europe, but there is a wide debate about children in lockdown. Other countries have set age limits for going outside. Under-18s can only go outside in Poland and Bosnia if accompanied by an adult, while Italy - the country with Europe's highest recorded number of deaths at 21,645 - allows all children out if they are with a parent. France requires everyone to carry a signed form explaining why they are outside. Parents must sign the form for their children. Elsewhere, however, children are already returning to education. Denmark reopened primary schools and kindergartens on Wednesday. Norway plans to follow suit shortly, with kindergartens set to open their doors on 20 April and primary schools a week later. Both Iceland and Sweden never closed their primary schools, with Iceland set to reopen high schools and universities on 4 May. German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced on Wednesday that pupils would slowly start to return to class on 4 May, with priority given to those with school exams. However, she said there would need to be new rules for break times and school buses, saying it would require "a great logistical effort" to ensure students' safety. ### Summary: Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a nationwide lockdown for children. ### Source: Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a nationwide lockdown for children. ### Summary:

uk-england-cornwall-48230438

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cornwall-48230438

UKIP candidate Carl Benjamin in Truro milkshake melee

A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of throwing a milkshake at a member of the public.

Mr Benjamin was holding a gathering on Lemon Quay in Truro, Cornwall, with British activist Milo Yiannopoulos. It is understood a man and a woman tried to target Mr Benjamin with the milkshake but missed. Supporters of Mr Benjamin pulled the man to the ground after he threw the milkshake. Police said they received reports of an altercation. The man was later seen walking away. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "A milkshake was reportedly thrown over a member of the public by a man wearing black clothing and a white mask. "Police carried out inquiries but the 'victim' did not make themselves known to officers. "No official complaint has been received." A female protester was also prevented from throwing kippers at Mr Benjamin. At the scene By Johnny O'Shea, BBC News One of the protestors across the square was performing with a jazz trumpet to drown out Mr Benjamin when a man with a scarf partially covering his face and a hooded woman pushed their way through the crowd holding bottles of milkshake. The pair missed their target, with the milkshake instead going on to other people and over the floor. They were pulled away by a number of Mr Benjamin's supporters and a scuffle started with punches and kicks being thrown. Mr Benjamin began his speech by saying: "Thank you to the protestors who have assaulted me already." Other protesters at the rally included a busker who set up close by, playing loudly to try to drown the two speakers out. Police are currently investigating remarks made by Mr Benjamin after Labour MP Jess Phillips accused him of malicious communications. Mr Benjamin is running to become an MEP for South-West England, one of 47 candidates in the constitiuency. The Truro incident comes after Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, had milkshakes thrown at him in Warrington, Cheshire, and Bury in Greater Manchester while campaigning as a European Parliament candidate for North-West England. Who are Carl Benjamin and Milo Yiannopoulos? YouTuber Carl Benjamin, known online as Sargon of Akkad, was unveiled as a UKIP election candidate last month. He sparked outrage when tweeted in 2016 that he "wouldn't even rape" Labour MP Jess Phillips. He has refused to apologise for the remark, arguing that "any subject can be the subject of a joke." Last month, members of UKIP's Swindon branch said Mr Benjamin had only joined the local party recently and he should be deselected. Milo Yiannopoulos is a British writer and editor, based in the US. He has been widely criticised for comments he has made about transgender people, Muslims, Black Lives Matter activism, feminists and gay people, even though he is openly gay. In July 2016, Mr Yiannopoulos was banned from Twitter for what the social media company referred to as "inciting or engaging in the targeted abuse or harassment of others". He was also banned from Facebook earlier this month.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Benjamin was holding a gathering on Lemon Quay in Truro, Cornwall, with British activist Milo Yiannopoulos. It is understood a man and a woman tried to target Mr Benjamin with the milkshake but missed. Supporters of Mr Benjamin pulled the man to the ground after he threw the milkshake. Police said they received reports of an altercation. The man was later seen walking away. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "A milkshake was reportedly thrown over a member of the public by a man wearing black clothing and a white mask. "Police carried out inquiries but the 'victim' did not make themselves known to officers. "No official complaint has been received." A female protester was also prevented from throwing kippers at Mr Benjamin. At the scene By Johnny O'Shea, BBC News One of the protestors across the square was performing with a jazz trumpet to drown out Mr Benjamin when a man with a scarf partially covering his face and a hooded woman pushed their way through the crowd holding bottles of milkshake. The pair missed their target, with the milkshake instead going on to other people and over the floor. They were pulled away by a number of Mr Benjamin's supporters and a scuffle started with punches and kicks being thrown. Mr Benjamin began his speech by saying: "Thank you to the protestors who have assaulted me already." Other protesters at the rally included a busker who set up close by, playing loudly to try to drown the two speakers out. Police are currently investigating remarks made by Mr Benjamin after Labour MP Jess Phillips accused him of malicious communications. Mr Benjamin is running to become an MEP for South-West England, one of 47 candidates in the constitiuency. The Truro incident comes after Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, had milkshakes thrown at him in Warrington, Cheshire, and Bury in Greater Manchester while campaigning as a European Parliament candidate for North-West England. Who are Carl Benjamin and Milo Yiannopoulos? YouTuber Carl Benjamin, known online as Sargon of Akkad, was unveiled as a UKIP election candidate last month. He sparked outrage when tweeted in 2016 that he "wouldn't even rape" Labour MP Jess Phillips. He has refused to apologise for the remark, arguing that "any subject can be the subject of a joke." Last month, members of UKIP's Swindon branch said Mr Benjamin had only joined the local party recently and he should be deselected. Milo Yiannopoulos is a British writer and editor, based in the US. He has been widely criticised for comments he has made about transgender people, Muslims, Black Lives Matter activism, feminists and gay people, even though he is openly gay. In July 2016, Mr Yiannopoulos was banned from Twitter for what the social media company referred to as "inciting or engaging in the targeted abuse or harassment of others". He was also banned from Facebook earlier this month. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Benjamin was holding a gathering on Lemon Quay in Truro, Cornwall, with British activist Milo Yiannopoulos. It is understood a man and a woman tried to target Mr Benjamin with the milkshake but missed. Supporters of Mr Benjamin pulled the man to the ground after he threw the milkshake. Police said they received reports of an altercation. The man was later seen walking away. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "A milkshake was reportedly thrown over a member of the public by a man wearing black clothing and a white mask. "Police carried out inquiries but the 'victim' did not make themselves known to officers. "No official complaint has been received." A female protester was also prevented from throwing kippers at Mr Benjamin. At the scene By Johnny O'Shea, BBC News One of the protestors across the square was performing with a jazz trumpet to drown out Mr Benjamin when a man with a scarf partially covering his face and a hooded woman pushed their way through the crowd holding bottles of milkshake. The pair missed their target, with the milkshake instead going on to other people and over the floor. They were pulled away by a number of Mr Benjamin's supporters and a scuffle started with punches and kicks being thrown. Mr Benjamin began his speech by saying: "Thank you to the protestors who have assaulted me already." Other protesters at the rally included a busker who set up close by, playing loudly to try to drown the two speakers out. Police are currently investigating remarks made by Mr Benjamin after Labour MP Jess Phillips accused him of malicious communications. Mr Benjamin is running to become an MEP for South-West England, one of 47 candidates in the constitiuency. The Truro incident comes after Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, had milkshakes thrown at him in Warrington, Cheshire, and Bury in Greater Manchester while campaigning as a European Parliament candidate for North-West England. Who are Carl Benjamin and Milo Yiannopoulos? YouTuber Carl Benjamin, known online as Sargon of Akkad, was unveiled as a UKIP election candidate last month. He sparked outrage when tweeted in 2016 that he "wouldn't even rape" Labour MP Jess Phillips. He has refused to apologise for the remark, arguing that "any subject can be the subject of a joke." Last month, members of UKIP's Swindon branch said Mr Benjamin had only joined the local party recently and he should be deselected. Milo Yiannopoulos is a British writer and editor, based in the US. He has been widely criticised for comments he has made about transgender people, Muslims, Black Lives Matter activism, feminists and gay people, even though he is openly gay. In July 2016, Mr Yiannopoulos was banned from Twitter for what the social media company referred to as "inciting or engaging in the targeted abuse or harassment of others". He was also banned from Facebook earlier this month. ### Summary: A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of throwing a milkshake at a member of the public. ### Source: A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of throwing a milkshake at a

business-11435941

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-11435941

BP forms 'powerful' new safety unit

BP has announced a new unit to oversee safety and safety standards.

The oil giant says the division will have "sweeping powers", including the authority to intervene in operations to uphold safety standards. Mark Bly, who headed BP's internal investigation into the hugely damaging US oil spill, will run the new unit. BP hopes the new unit, along with a number of other organisational changes, will help rebuild trust in the company. Mr Bly will report directly to Bob Dudley, who takes over as chief executive on 1 October. "There is a pressing need to rebuild trust in BP around the world," Mr Dudley said. As well as Mr Bly's strengthened role, BP said the other key change was that safety staff would be embedded in its operations around the world. 'Sequence of failures' It is also splitting its Upstream business into three divisions - Exploration, Development and Production - in a move to focus on specialist expertise. As part of that reorganisation, it will examine how it manages third-party contractors. BP's internal investigation, published last month, blamed a "sequence of failures involving a number of different parties" for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. It said it was responsible in part for the disaster, but also placed some blame on other companies working on the well. BP also wants to change its reward strategy in order to improve safety standards. The changes include the departure of Andy Inglis, currently head of the Upstream business, which is responsible for exploration and production. He took over that role three years ago from outgoing chief executive Tony Hayward.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The oil giant says the division will have "sweeping powers", including the authority to intervene in operations to uphold safety standards. Mark Bly, who headed BP's internal investigation into the hugely damaging US oil spill, will run the new unit. BP hopes the new unit, along with a number of other organisational changes, will help rebuild trust in the company. Mr Bly will report directly to Bob Dudley, who takes over as chief executive on 1 October. "There is a pressing need to rebuild trust in BP around the world," Mr Dudley said. As well as Mr Bly's strengthened role, BP said the other key change was that safety staff would be embedded in its operations around the world. 'Sequence of failures' It is also splitting its Upstream business into three divisions - Exploration, Development and Production - in a move to focus on specialist expertise. As part of that reorganisation, it will examine how it manages third-party contractors. BP's internal investigation, published last month, blamed a "sequence of failures involving a number of different parties" for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. It said it was responsible in part for the disaster, but also placed some blame on other companies working on the well. BP also wants to change its reward strategy in order to improve safety standards. The changes include the departure of Andy Inglis, currently head of the Upstream business, which is responsible for exploration and production. He took over that role three years ago from outgoing chief executive Tony Hayward. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The oil giant says the division will have "sweeping powers", including the authority to intervene in operations to uphold safety standards. Mark Bly, who headed BP's internal investigation into the hugely damaging US oil spill, will run the new unit. BP hopes the new unit, along with a number of other organisational changes, will help rebuild trust in the company. Mr Bly will report directly to Bob Dudley, who takes over as chief executive on 1 October. "There is a pressing need to rebuild trust in BP around the world," Mr Dudley said. As well as Mr Bly's strengthened role, BP said the other key change was that safety staff would be embedded in its operations around the world. 'Sequence of failures' It is also splitting its Upstream business into three divisions - Exploration, Development and Production - in a move to focus on specialist expertise. As part of that reorganisation, it will examine how it manages third-party contractors. BP's internal investigation, published last month, blamed a "sequence of failures involving a number of different parties" for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. It said it was responsible in part for the disaster, but also placed some blame on other companies working on the well. BP also wants to change its reward strategy in order to improve safety standards. The changes include the departure of Andy Inglis, currently head of the Upstream business, which is responsible for exploration and production. He took over that role three years ago from outgoing chief executive Tony Hayward. ### Summary: BP has announced a new unit to oversee safety and safety standards. ### Text: BP has announced a new unit to oversee safety and safety standards. ### Summary: BP has announced a

business-53306423

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-53306423

Rishi Sunak's Summer statement: 'We've been overlooked'

The chancellor has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres, galleries and museums.

By Lora JonesBusiness reporter, BBC News Many are working from home, while others have been furloughed or even made redundant. There could be more than one million young workers who are without a job, if the overall UK level of unemployment goes up from the current 4% of workers to 10%, according to the Resolution Foundation think-tank. On top of that, under-30s have been hardest hit by a fall in their income during lockdown as more of their money goes on essentials. So what did they think of Chancellor Rishi Sunak's speech on Wednesday? 'Apprentices have been overlooked' Emma-Jayne is an apprentice chef from Dorset, earning £5 per hour. She is one of the many workers who were furloughed in the hospitality sector. The scheme was introduced by the government to minimise coronavirus-related job losses, and it pays 80% of staff salaries up to £2,500 a month. Although restaurants in England have since been allowed to reopen, Emma-Jayne has only gone back to work part-time. While the chancellor announced that firms in England will receive cash bonuses for hiring new apprentices from 1 August, Emma-Jayne feels she's being "overlooked". "I've only just been able to pay my rent and bills on furlough payments," she says. "As well as the business receiving that bonus, the apprentice should get something to support them." She also expressed concern about the government giving diners 50% off their food bills in August. "The voucher is all well and good if the UK was clear of Covid-19, but it's not. "Hospitality desperately needs a boost. But in that same breath, the last thing any business needs is for their staff or customers to be put at risk of infection." 'Carers should be recognised' Nairn McDonald, 24, is a full-time carer for his mum and 21-year-old brother. He says that during lockdown they've been shielding. "Now they can't get out, my role has changed. I'm also picking up prescriptions, doing more errands - so it's a bit more labour intensive." Costs have also been adding up. Nairn relies on universal credit, the benefit for working-age people in the UK, which he says doesn't "really go a long way". As part of his speech on Wednesday, the chancellor announced the "kickstart" plan, which will subsidise six-month work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on universal credit, who are at risk of long-term unemployment. Nairn points out that it's crucial that the scheme is "flexible" for carers. He also worries about the type of work to be subsidised. "I was so happy to be the first in my family to go to university. I wanted to get a decent job with a decent wage, but it's not clear what's on offer with the scheme. "There's also no way that I could think of employment if the risk of bringing Covid-19 back to my household is quite high." 'No help for renters' Razzia Gafur, 24, moved to London after finishing her university studies two years ago. But when lockdown started, she decided to isolate with her partner and his family just outside of Leeds. "I only packed a weekend bag, and I've been here for three to four months now!" Razzia has since asked her estate agent if she could exit the tenancy agreement, as she's spending £700 per month on rent and bills on a property she hasn't been living in. "They would only let me out of my tenancy if I found a replacement tenant," Razzia says, adding that it was difficult to find anyone to take on the flat during lockdown. She wanted the chancellor to do more for tenants in the private rented sector. "To be honest, I can't say I'm disappointed because I didn't expect any help from the government," she says. "It's definitely solidified the thought that I should be looking to buy my own property, as renting has put me in a more difficult situation." She adds that that government should use lockdown as an opportunity to educate first-time buyers about the different types of schemes that exist to help them get on the housing ladder. Although the chancellor announced a stamp duty holiday for property sales up to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland, first-time buyers pay no tax up to £300,000. 'No furlough scheme extension for the arts' Georgia Barks from Peterborough has also been furloughed. The theatre she works at has been closed since the pandemic took hold earlier this year. While the government has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres, galleries and museums, "it should have been done sooner", Georgia says. "When we all looked for entertainment during lockdown, we turned to Netflix, we turned to TV, and to theatre live-streams - we all turned to the arts." Georgia believes that the chancellor should have extended the furlough scheme, which is due to finish at the end of October, covering costs for theatres which have no confirmed reopening date as of yet. "There are no shows for people to come see and there is a drop in future bookings because people are waiting to see if dates get moved again. "It's ridiculous to say [theatres] must contribute when they have no income to do so," she says.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Lora JonesBusiness reporter, BBC News Many are working from home, while others have been furloughed or even made redundant. There could be more than one million young workers who are without a job, if the overall UK level of unemployment goes up from the current 4% of workers to 10%, according to the Resolution Foundation think-tank. On top of that, under-30s have been hardest hit by a fall in their income during lockdown as more of their money goes on essentials. So what did they think of Chancellor Rishi Sunak's speech on Wednesday? 'Apprentices have been overlooked' Emma-Jayne is an apprentice chef from Dorset, earning £5 per hour. She is one of the many workers who were furloughed in the hospitality sector. The scheme was introduced by the government to minimise coronavirus-related job losses, and it pays 80% of staff salaries up to £2,500 a month. Although restaurants in England have since been allowed to reopen, Emma-Jayne has only gone back to work part-time. While the chancellor announced that firms in England will receive cash bonuses for hiring new apprentices from 1 August, Emma-Jayne feels she's being "overlooked". "I've only just been able to pay my rent and bills on furlough payments," she says. "As well as the business receiving that bonus, the apprentice should get something to support them." She also expressed concern about the government giving diners 50% off their food bills in August. "The voucher is all well and good if the UK was clear of Covid-19, but it's not. "Hospitality desperately needs a boost. But in that same breath, the last thing any business needs is for their staff or customers to be put at risk of infection." 'Carers should be recognised' Nairn McDonald, 24, is a full-time carer for his mum and 21-year-old brother. He says that during lockdown they've been shielding. "Now they can't get out, my role has changed. I'm also picking up prescriptions, doing more errands - so it's a bit more labour intensive." Costs have also been adding up. Nairn relies on universal credit, the benefit for working-age people in the UK, which he says doesn't "really go a long way". As part of his speech on Wednesday, the chancellor announced the "kickstart" plan, which will subsidise six-month work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on universal credit, who are at risk of long-term unemployment. Nairn points out that it's crucial that the scheme is "flexible" for carers. He also worries about the type of work to be subsidised. "I was so happy to be the first in my family to go to university. I wanted to get a decent job with a decent wage, but it's not clear what's on offer with the scheme. "There's also no way that I could think of employment if the risk of bringing Covid-19 back to my household is quite high." 'No help for renters' Razzia Gafur, 24, moved to London after finishing her university studies two years ago. But when lockdown started, she decided to isolate with her partner and his family just outside of Leeds. "I only packed a weekend bag, and I've been here for three to four months now!" Razzia has since asked her estate agent if she could exit the tenancy agreement, as she's spending £700 per month on rent and bills on a property she hasn't been living in. "They would only let me out of my tenancy if I found a replacement tenant," Razzia says, adding that it was difficult to find anyone to take on the flat during lockdown. She wanted the chancellor to do more for tenants in the private rented sector. "To be honest, I can't say I'm disappointed because I didn't expect any help from the government," she says. "It's definitely solidified the thought that I should be looking to buy my own property, as renting has put me in a more difficult situation." She adds that that government should use lockdown as an opportunity to educate first-time buyers about the different types of schemes that exist to help them get on the housing ladder. Although the chancellor announced a stamp duty holiday for property sales up to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland, first-time buyers pay no tax up to £300,000. 'No furlough scheme extension for the arts' Georgia Barks from Peterborough has also been furloughed. The theatre she works at has been closed since the pandemic took hold earlier this year. While the government has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres, galleries and museums, "it should have been done sooner", Georgia says. "When we all looked for entertainment during lockdown ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Lora JonesBusiness reporter, BBC News Many are working from home, while others have been furloughed or even made redundant. There could be more than one million young workers who are without a job, if the overall UK level of unemployment goes up from the current 4% of workers to 10%, according to the Resolution Foundation think-tank. On top of that, under-30s have been hardest hit by a fall in their income during lockdown as more of their money goes on essentials. So what did they think of Chancellor Rishi Sunak's speech on Wednesday? 'Apprentices have been overlooked' Emma-Jayne is an apprentice chef from Dorset, earning £5 per hour. She is one of the many workers who were furloughed in the hospitality sector. The scheme was introduced by the government to minimise coronavirus-related job losses, and it pays 80% of staff salaries up to £2,500 a month. Although restaurants in England have since been allowed to reopen, Emma-Jayne has only gone back to work part-time. While the chancellor announced that firms in England will receive cash bonuses for hiring new apprentices from 1 August, Emma-Jayne feels she's being "overlooked". "I've only just been able to pay my rent and bills on furlough payments," she says. "As well as the business receiving that bonus, the apprentice should get something to support them." She also expressed concern about the government giving diners 50% off their food bills in August. "The voucher is all well and good if the UK was clear of Covid-19, but it's not. "Hospitality desperately needs a boost. But in that same breath, the last thing any business needs is for their staff or customers to be put at risk of infection." 'Carers should be recognised' Nairn McDonald, 24, is a full-time carer for his mum and 21-year-old brother. He says that during lockdown they've been shielding. "Now they can't get out, my role has changed. I'm also picking up prescriptions, doing more errands - so it's a bit more labour intensive." Costs have also been adding up. Nairn relies on universal credit, the benefit for working-age people in the UK, which he says doesn't "really go a long way". As part of his speech on Wednesday, the chancellor announced the "kickstart" plan, which will subsidise six-month work placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on universal credit, who are at risk of long-term unemployment. Nairn points out that it's crucial that the scheme is "flexible" for carers. He also worries about the type of work to be subsidised. "I was so happy to be the first in my family to go to university. I wanted to get a decent job with a decent wage, but it's not clear what's on offer with the scheme. "There's also no way that I could think of employment if the risk of bringing Covid-19 back to my household is quite high." 'No help for renters' Razzia Gafur, 24, moved to London after finishing her university studies two years ago. But when lockdown started, she decided to isolate with her partner and his family just outside of Leeds. "I only packed a weekend bag, and I've been here for three to four months now!" Razzia has since asked her estate agent if she could exit the tenancy agreement, as she's spending £700 per month on rent and bills on a property she hasn't been living in. "They would only let me out of my tenancy if I found a replacement tenant," Razzia says, adding that it was difficult to find anyone to take on the flat during lockdown. She wanted the chancellor to do more for tenants in the private rented sector. "To be honest, I can't say I'm disappointed because I didn't expect any help from the government," she says. "It's definitely solidified the thought that I should be looking to buy my own property, as renting has put me in a more difficult situation." She adds that that government should use lockdown as an opportunity to educate first-time buyers about the different types of schemes that exist to help them get on the housing ladder. Although the chancellor announced a stamp duty holiday for property sales up to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland, first-time buyers pay no tax up to £300,000. 'No furlough scheme extension for the arts' Georgia Barks from Peterborough has also been furloughed. The theatre she works at has been closed since the pandemic took hold earlier this year. While the government has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres, galleries and museums, "it should have been done sooner", Georgia says. "When we all looked for entertainment during lockdown ### Summary: The chancellor has announced a £1.57bn emergency support package to help protect the future of theatres, galleries and museums. ### Spotlights The government has announced a £1

uk-scotland-13844313

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-13844313

Holyrood's justice committee to probe sectarian bill

The Scottish Parliament has voted to pass a bill to tackle football-related abusive behaviour.

MSPs are poised to pass new laws by the end of the month to help address the issue with tough new prison terms. But justice committee convener Christine Grahame said independent scrutiny was needed. Police, church, legal and football representatives are giving evidence to the committee over the next few days. Parliament is voting on the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill for the first time on Thursday, despite only being introduced last week. The legislation aims to stamp out abusive behaviour from football fans whether they are watching matches in a stadium, in the pub or commenting online. It would raise the maximum jail term from six months to five years. Ministers want the laws in place for the start of the new football season, in July. But Ms Grahame, an SNP MSP, said: "The justice committee feels that, due to the speed at which this important bill is scheduled to go through parliament, it is vital that we have some independent scrutiny from key stakeholders." The committee will not produce a report on its sessions, as is the norm with legislation, but Ms Grahame added: "We hope that over the course of these evidence sessions our committee will prove to be a valuable resource in informing the Scottish Parliament's scrutiny of this bill." On Tuesday, the committee will question Community Safety Minister Roseanna Cunningham, along with senior police officers and members of the legal profession. And, on Wednesday, MSPs will hear from the Scottish Premier League and football association representatives, Rangers security chief David Martin and the Church of Scotland. The new legislation comes in the wake of several high-profile football-related incidents, including the recent appearance of two men in court, after suspected bombs were sent to Celtic manager Neil Lennon and two other high-profile supporters of the club, in March.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: MSPs are poised to pass new laws by the end of the month to help address the issue with tough new prison terms. But justice committee convener Christine Grahame said independent scrutiny was needed. Police, church, legal and football representatives are giving evidence to the committee over the next few days. Parliament is voting on the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill for the first time on Thursday, despite only being introduced last week. The legislation aims to stamp out abusive behaviour from football fans whether they are watching matches in a stadium, in the pub or commenting online. It would raise the maximum jail term from six months to five years. Ministers want the laws in place for the start of the new football season, in July. But Ms Grahame, an SNP MSP, said: "The justice committee feels that, due to the speed at which this important bill is scheduled to go through parliament, it is vital that we have some independent scrutiny from key stakeholders." The committee will not produce a report on its sessions, as is the norm with legislation, but Ms Grahame added: "We hope that over the course of these evidence sessions our committee will prove to be a valuable resource in informing the Scottish Parliament's scrutiny of this bill." On Tuesday, the committee will question Community Safety Minister Roseanna Cunningham, along with senior police officers and members of the legal profession. And, on Wednesday, MSPs will hear from the Scottish Premier League and football association representatives, Rangers security chief David Martin and the Church of Scotland. The new legislation comes in the wake of several high-profile football-related incidents, including the recent appearance of two men in court, after suspected bombs were sent to Celtic manager Neil Lennon and two other high-profile supporters of the club, in March. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: MSPs are poised to pass new laws by the end of the month to help address the issue with tough new prison terms. But justice committee convener Christine Grahame said independent scrutiny was needed. Police, church, legal and football representatives are giving evidence to the committee over the next few days. Parliament is voting on the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Bill for the first time on Thursday, despite only being introduced last week. The legislation aims to stamp out abusive behaviour from football fans whether they are watching matches in a stadium, in the pub or commenting online. It would raise the maximum jail term from six months to five years. Ministers want the laws in place for the start of the new football season, in July. But Ms Grahame, an SNP MSP, said: "The justice committee feels that, due to the speed at which this important bill is scheduled to go through parliament, it is vital that we have some independent scrutiny from key stakeholders." The committee will not produce a report on its sessions, as is the norm with legislation, but Ms Grahame added: "We hope that over the course of these evidence sessions our committee will prove to be a valuable resource in informing the Scottish Parliament's scrutiny of this bill." On Tuesday, the committee will question Community Safety Minister Roseanna Cunningham, along with senior police officers and members of the legal profession. And, on Wednesday, MSPs will hear from the Scottish Premier League and football association representatives, Rangers security chief David Martin and the Church of Scotland. The new legislation comes in the wake of several high-profile football-related incidents, including the recent appearance of two men in court, after suspected bombs were sent to Celtic manager Neil Lennon and two other high-profile supporters of the club, in March. ### Summary: The Scottish Parliament has voted to pass a bill to tackle football-related abusive behaviour. ### Next steps: The bill will be debated by the Scottish Parliament on Thursday. ### In this section:

uk-england-leeds-56591495

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-leeds-56591495

Batley student wins scholarship to top US university

A student from Leeds has been awarded a $84,000 scholarship to study at MIT.

Chloe Smith from Batley will study computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. She will receive $84,000 a year from the university, which will cover all her tuition and living expenses. The 18-year-old, who studies at Elliot Hudson College in Leeds, said she was "shocked" when she received the email. "I was so convinced that I wasn't going to get in because the admissions rate is 4%, so incredibly difficult," she said. "I barrelled down the stairs to my parents, I'm quite surprised I didn't fall through the ceiling. I don't think I've ever run so fast and burst into the living room and went 'I've just got into MIT'." Her success comes despite missing 18 months of schooling when she was in year eight due to a chronic pain problem, which she still manages. "I wasn't the most advantaged or anything like that, I was just a normal student, I still am [to] that extent," she said. "I think through hard work and basically having a plan and thinking no matter what people say even though it seems like shooting for the stars, if you are willing to look for the opportunities you can follow them and achieve amazing things." Ms Smith said both her parents were "incredibly excited" She added that the scholarship award was a huge help. "It takes away all the borders. I don't have to worry about the money implications, I don't have to be like can we really afford this." She starts her studies in September and hopes to specialise in robotics during the four year course. David Holtham principal of Elliot Hudson College said: "I think Chloe is a really powerful and inspirational role model to young people in the Leeds city region. "What she's done is incredible but she's done it because she has set herself a goal and she's worked really hard to achieve that goal." Founded in 1861, MIT is ranked as one of the world's leading science universities and has won a number of Nobel Prizes over the years for its research. Its campus is based in Cambridge, just across the Charles River from the city of Boston. Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk. Related Internet Links Elliott Hudson College Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Chloe Smith from Batley will study computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. She will receive $84,000 a year from the university, which will cover all her tuition and living expenses. The 18-year-old, who studies at Elliot Hudson College in Leeds, said she was "shocked" when she received the email. "I was so convinced that I wasn't going to get in because the admissions rate is 4%, so incredibly difficult," she said. "I barrelled down the stairs to my parents, I'm quite surprised I didn't fall through the ceiling. I don't think I've ever run so fast and burst into the living room and went 'I've just got into MIT'." Her success comes despite missing 18 months of schooling when she was in year eight due to a chronic pain problem, which she still manages. "I wasn't the most advantaged or anything like that, I was just a normal student, I still am [to] that extent," she said. "I think through hard work and basically having a plan and thinking no matter what people say even though it seems like shooting for the stars, if you are willing to look for the opportunities you can follow them and achieve amazing things." Ms Smith said both her parents were "incredibly excited" She added that the scholarship award was a huge help. "It takes away all the borders. I don't have to worry about the money implications, I don't have to be like can we really afford this." She starts her studies in September and hopes to specialise in robotics during the four year course. David Holtham principal of Elliot Hudson College said: "I think Chloe is a really powerful and inspirational role model to young people in the Leeds city region. "What she's done is incredible but she's done it because she has set herself a goal and she's worked really hard to achieve that goal." Founded in 1861, MIT is ranked as one of the world's leading science universities and has won a number of Nobel Prizes over the years for its research. Its campus is based in Cambridge, just across the Charles River from the city of Boston. Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk. Related Internet Links Elliott Hudson College Massachusetts Institute of Technology ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Chloe Smith from Batley will study computer science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. She will receive $84,000 a year from the university, which will cover all her tuition and living expenses. The 18-year-old, who studies at Elliot Hudson College in Leeds, said she was "shocked" when she received the email. "I was so convinced that I wasn't going to get in because the admissions rate is 4%, so incredibly difficult," she said. "I barrelled down the stairs to my parents, I'm quite surprised I didn't fall through the ceiling. I don't think I've ever run so fast and burst into the living room and went 'I've just got into MIT'." Her success comes despite missing 18 months of schooling when she was in year eight due to a chronic pain problem, which she still manages. "I wasn't the most advantaged or anything like that, I was just a normal student, I still am [to] that extent," she said. "I think through hard work and basically having a plan and thinking no matter what people say even though it seems like shooting for the stars, if you are willing to look for the opportunities you can follow them and achieve amazing things." Ms Smith said both her parents were "incredibly excited" She added that the scholarship award was a huge help. "It takes away all the borders. I don't have to worry about the money implications, I don't have to be like can we really afford this." She starts her studies in September and hopes to specialise in robotics during the four year course. David Holtham principal of Elliot Hudson College said: "I think Chloe is a really powerful and inspirational role model to young people in the Leeds city region. "What she's done is incredible but she's done it because she has set herself a goal and she's worked really hard to achieve that goal." Founded in 1861, MIT is ranked as one of the world's leading science universities and has won a number of Nobel Prizes over the years for its research. Its campus is based in Cambridge, just across the Charles River from the city of Boston. Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk. Related Internet Links Elliott Hudson College Massachusetts Institute of Technology ### Summary: A student from Leeds has been awarded a $84,000 scholarship to study at MIT. ### Next### A student from Leeds has been awarded a $84,000 scholarship

uk-england-53907067

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-53907067

Nightclub stabbing victim Andre Bent remembered a year on

A teenager who stabbed a man to death has been named as a "pivotal" part of the family.

Andre Bent, 21, from Lambeth, south London, was stabbed outside Gallery in Maidstone on 25 August last year. His brother and sister said they are trying to come to terms with the loss. Vasilios Ofogeli, who was 16 at the time, was convicted of Mr Bent's murder and jailed for at least 20 years. Restrictions were lifted by a judge so the teenager could be named. As the community paid tribute to Mr Bent at a memorial service in Maidstone on Tuesday, Mr Bent's sister, Michaela Bent, said her brother was a "pivotal" part of the family and his loss would never get easier. Mr Bent's brother, Dominic Conroy, said: "It doesn't feel the same. "A year later, I don't think any of us have got over it. I don't think any of us will ever get over it. "People say time heals, but I don't know - when you're going through it, it doesn't seem like that." On the night of the attack, Mr Bent, a father-to-be, had been celebrating a friend's birthday and had watched rapper Mostack perform, but violence broke out in the early hours. He was stabbed in the chest and bled to death about 40 minutes later. After his conviction, Ofogeli recorded a drill track about killing a man and how three others should have died too. The trial heard how he fled to Greece within hours of the killing. At his sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court in May, Judge Mrs Justice Cutts described Ofogeli as "remorseless" and "immature".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Andre Bent, 21, from Lambeth, south London, was stabbed outside Gallery in Maidstone on 25 August last year. His brother and sister said they are trying to come to terms with the loss. Vasilios Ofogeli, who was 16 at the time, was convicted of Mr Bent's murder and jailed for at least 20 years. Restrictions were lifted by a judge so the teenager could be named. As the community paid tribute to Mr Bent at a memorial service in Maidstone on Tuesday, Mr Bent's sister, Michaela Bent, said her brother was a "pivotal" part of the family and his loss would never get easier. Mr Bent's brother, Dominic Conroy, said: "It doesn't feel the same. "A year later, I don't think any of us have got over it. I don't think any of us will ever get over it. "People say time heals, but I don't know - when you're going through it, it doesn't seem like that." On the night of the attack, Mr Bent, a father-to-be, had been celebrating a friend's birthday and had watched rapper Mostack perform, but violence broke out in the early hours. He was stabbed in the chest and bled to death about 40 minutes later. After his conviction, Ofogeli recorded a drill track about killing a man and how three others should have died too. The trial heard how he fled to Greece within hours of the killing. At his sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court in May, Judge Mrs Justice Cutts described Ofogeli as "remorseless" and "immature". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Andre Bent, 21, from Lambeth, south London, was stabbed outside Gallery in Maidstone on 25 August last year. His brother and sister said they are trying to come to terms with the loss. Vasilios Ofogeli, who was 16 at the time, was convicted of Mr Bent's murder and jailed for at least 20 years. Restrictions were lifted by a judge so the teenager could be named. As the community paid tribute to Mr Bent at a memorial service in Maidstone on Tuesday, Mr Bent's sister, Michaela Bent, said her brother was a "pivotal" part of the family and his loss would never get easier. Mr Bent's brother, Dominic Conroy, said: "It doesn't feel the same. "A year later, I don't think any of us have got over it. I don't think any of us will ever get over it. "People say time heals, but I don't know - when you're going through it, it doesn't seem like that." On the night of the attack, Mr Bent, a father-to-be, had been celebrating a friend's birthday and had watched rapper Mostack perform, but violence broke out in the early hours. He was stabbed in the chest and bled to death about 40 minutes later. After his conviction, Ofogeli recorded a drill track about killing a man and how three others should have died too. The trial heard how he fled to Greece within hours of the killing. At his sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court in May, Judge Mrs Justice Cutts described Ofogeli as "remorseless" and "immature". ### Summary: A teenager who stabbed a man to death has been named as a "pivotal" part of the family. ### Next: A teenager who stabbed a man to death has been named as

world-latin-america-41340392

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-41340392

Hurricane Maria: Puerto Rico may be months without power

Hurricane Maria has killed at least 10 people in Puerto Rico.

Flash flood warnings cover the entire island, which continues to be lashed by heavy rain in the storm's wake. Meanwhile more pictures are emerging of widespread destruction on the small island of Dominica, hit on Monday. Maria, now a category three storm, has been lashing the Dominican Republic further west and heading towards the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is the second devastating storm to hit the Caribbean this hurricane season - the first being category five Irma earlier in September. 'Our island destroyed' US President Donald Trump said the storm had "totally obliterated" the US territory, and pledged to visit Puerto Rico. The island's Governor Ricardo Rossello described the hurricane as "the most devastating storm in a century" and said that Maria had hit the island's electricity grid so badly that it could take months to restore power. In pictures: Maria aftermath on Puerto Rico The storm is being blamed for at least 10 deaths across the Caribbean. In Puerto Rico one man died after being struck by a board he had used to cover his windows. The authorities have warned people to move to higher ground amid "catastrophic" flooding, and with up to 30in (76cm) more rain predicted by Saturday. Images shared on social media show roofs being stripped away as winds as strong as 140mph (225km/h) whipped trees and power lines in Puerto Rico's capital city, San Juan. "God is with us; we are stronger than any hurricane," Mr Rossello said. "Together we will rise again." The governor has asked President Donald Trump to declare the island a disaster area after the storm unleashed heavy flooding and life-threatening winds, and damaged infrastructure across the territory. The US president is yet to do so, but has made federal emergency aid available. Hurricane Maria: What to do before, during and after At the scene: A city under curfew By Will Grant in San Juan, Puerto Rico Not far down the coast from the Puerto Rican capital, the small town of Cataño is trying to pick itself up after Hurricane Maria. The massive storm hit the town with incredible power when it swept over the island, tearing roofs off homes, flooding many houses and even destroying entire buildings. The whole town is now gingerly making its way outside to begin the daunting task of clearing up. Some though, have nowhere to start. I spoke to one resident, Juan Romero as he surveyed what's left of his house: a tangled pile of wooden beams, rubble and twisted metal. "All I own is the clothes I'm wearing," he told me. Nevertheless he was just thankful to have survived. His neighbour then called me over to see her kitchen, its roof ripped clean off. Evelyn had also lost much, all her possessions are soaked and need replacing. However, it was concern for her aged mother that moved her to tears. At 101 years old she is too frail to be made to live elsewhere at this stage in life. Just as I was leaving their street, a small piece of good news: Juan Romero found his two cats that had been missing in the ruins of his home, Blanca and Negra. Drenched and scared, they were at least alive. "They'd had me worried", Juan said with obvious relief. What happened in Dominica? The storm has cut a swathe through the Caribbean on its north-westerly trajectory, hitting Dominica on Monday night. At least 15 people are dead and 20 others are missing on Dominica after Hurricane Maria, the Caribbean island's prime minister has said. Homes have been flattened, schools have been destroyed, telecommunications have been cut off and the island's main hospital is still without electricity, he said. On Thursday CNN posted footage from a flight over the island showing scattered debris from homes ripped open and thousands of broken trees. An adviser to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Hartley Henry, said on Facebook: "The country is in a daze - no electricity, no running water - as a result of uprooted pipes in most communities and definitely [no] landline or cellphone services on island, and that will be for quite a while." Images from the capital, Roseau, show some streets knee-deep in debris. Aid agencies have been preparing to go to Dominica to provide relief. Hours before reaching Puerto Rico, Maria barrelled through the St Croix in the US Virgin Islands as a category five storm, sustaining winds of up to 175mph (281km/h). The French territory of Guadeloupe suffered flooding on Monday and one person was killed by a falling tree and another died on the seafront. At least two others were missing after their ship sank near Desirade, the easternmost island in the archipelago. Are you in an area affected by Hurricane Maria? Share your experience: haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also contact us in the following ways:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Flash flood warnings cover the entire island, which continues to be lashed by heavy rain in the storm's wake. Meanwhile more pictures are emerging of widespread destruction on the small island of Dominica, hit on Monday. Maria, now a category three storm, has been lashing the Dominican Republic further west and heading towards the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is the second devastating storm to hit the Caribbean this hurricane season - the first being category five Irma earlier in September. 'Our island destroyed' US President Donald Trump said the storm had "totally obliterated" the US territory, and pledged to visit Puerto Rico. The island's Governor Ricardo Rossello described the hurricane as "the most devastating storm in a century" and said that Maria had hit the island's electricity grid so badly that it could take months to restore power. In pictures: Maria aftermath on Puerto Rico The storm is being blamed for at least 10 deaths across the Caribbean. In Puerto Rico one man died after being struck by a board he had used to cover his windows. The authorities have warned people to move to higher ground amid "catastrophic" flooding, and with up to 30in (76cm) more rain predicted by Saturday. Images shared on social media show roofs being stripped away as winds as strong as 140mph (225km/h) whipped trees and power lines in Puerto Rico's capital city, San Juan. "God is with us; we are stronger than any hurricane," Mr Rossello said. "Together we will rise again." The governor has asked President Donald Trump to declare the island a disaster area after the storm unleashed heavy flooding and life-threatening winds, and damaged infrastructure across the territory. The US president is yet to do so, but has made federal emergency aid available. Hurricane Maria: What to do before, during and after At the scene: A city under curfew By Will Grant in San Juan, Puerto Rico Not far down the coast from the Puerto Rican capital, the small town of Cataño is trying to pick itself up after Hurricane Maria. The massive storm hit the town with incredible power when it swept over the island, tearing roofs off homes, flooding many houses and even destroying entire buildings. The whole town is now gingerly making its way outside to begin the daunting task of clearing up. Some though, have nowhere to start. I spoke to one resident, Juan Romero as he surveyed what's left of his house: a tangled pile of wooden beams, rubble and twisted metal. "All I own is the clothes I'm wearing," he told me. Nevertheless he was just thankful to have survived. His neighbour then called me over to see her kitchen, its roof ripped clean off. Evelyn had also lost much, all her possessions are soaked and need replacing. However, it was concern for her aged mother that moved her to tears. At 101 years old she is too frail to be made to live elsewhere at this stage in life. Just as I was leaving their street, a small piece of good news: Juan Romero found his two cats that had been missing in the ruins of his home, Blanca and Negra. Drenched and scared, they were at least alive. "They'd had me worried", Juan said with obvious relief. What happened in Dominica? The storm has cut a swathe through the Caribbean on its north-westerly trajectory, hitting Dominica on Monday night. At least 15 people are dead and 20 others are missing on Dominica after Hurricane Maria, the Caribbean island's prime minister has said. Homes have been flattened, schools have been destroyed, telecommunications have been cut off and the island's main hospital is still without electricity, he said. On Thursday CNN posted footage from a flight over the island showing scattered debris from homes ripped open and thousands of broken trees. An adviser to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Hartley Henry, said on Facebook: "The country is in a daze - no electricity, no running water - as a result of uprooted pipes in most communities and definitely [no] landline or cellphone services on island, and that will be for quite a while." Images from the capital, Roseau, show some streets knee-deep in debris. Aid agencies have been preparing to go to Dominica to provide relief. Hours before reaching Puerto Rico, Maria barrelled through the St Croix in the US Virgin Islands as a category five storm, sustaining winds of up to 175mph (281km/h). The French territory of Guadeloupe suffered flooding on Monday and one person was killed by a falling tree and another died on the seafront. At least two others were missing after their ship sank near Desirade, the easternmost island in the archipelago. Are you in an area affected by Hurricane Maria? Share your experience: haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also contact us in the following ways: ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Flash flood warnings cover the entire island, which continues to be lashed by heavy rain in the storm's wake. Meanwhile more pictures are emerging of widespread destruction on the small island of Dominica, hit on Monday. Maria, now a category three storm, has been lashing the Dominican Republic further west and heading towards the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is the second devastating storm to hit the Caribbean this hurricane season - the first being category five Irma earlier in September. 'Our island destroyed' US President Donald Trump said the storm had "totally obliterated" the US territory, and pledged to visit Puerto Rico. The island's Governor Ricardo Rossello described the hurricane as "the most devastating storm in a century" and said that Maria had hit the island's electricity grid so badly that it could take months to restore power. In pictures: Maria aftermath on Puerto Rico The storm is being blamed for at least 10 deaths across the Caribbean. In Puerto Rico one man died after being struck by a board he had used to cover his windows. The authorities have warned people to move to higher ground amid "catastrophic" flooding, and with up to 30in (76cm) more rain predicted by Saturday. Images shared on social media show roofs being stripped away as winds as strong as 140mph (225km/h) whipped trees and power lines in Puerto Rico's capital city, San Juan. "God is with us; we are stronger than any hurricane," Mr Rossello said. "Together we will rise again." The governor has asked President Donald Trump to declare the island a disaster area after the storm unleashed heavy flooding and life-threatening winds, and damaged infrastructure across the territory. The US president is yet to do so, but has made federal emergency aid available. Hurricane Maria: What to do before, during and after At the scene: A city under curfew By Will Grant in San Juan, Puerto Rico Not far down the coast from the Puerto Rican capital, the small town of Cataño is trying to pick itself up after Hurricane Maria. The massive storm hit the town with incredible power when it swept over the island, tearing roofs off homes, flooding many houses and even destroying entire buildings. The whole town is now gingerly making its way outside to begin the daunting task of clearing up. Some though, have nowhere to start. I spoke to one resident, Juan Romero as he surveyed what's left of his house: a tangled pile of wooden beams, rubble and twisted metal. "All I own is the clothes I'm wearing," he told me. Nevertheless he was just thankful to have survived. His neighbour then called me over to see her kitchen, its roof ripped clean off. Evelyn had also lost much, all her possessions are soaked and need replacing. However, it was concern for her aged mother that moved her to tears. At 101 years old she is too frail to be made to live elsewhere at this stage in life. Just as I was leaving their street, a small piece of good news: Juan Romero found his two cats that had been missing in the ruins of his home, Blanca and Negra. Drenched and scared, they were at least alive. "They'd had me worried", Juan said with obvious relief. What happened in Dominica? The storm has cut a swathe through the Caribbean on its north-westerly trajectory, hitting Dominica on Monday night. At least 15 people are dead and 20 others are missing on Dominica after Hurricane Maria, the Caribbean island's prime minister has said. Homes have been flattened, schools have been destroyed, telecommunications have been cut off and the island's main hospital is still without electricity, he said. On Thursday CNN posted footage from a flight over the island showing scattered debris from homes ripped open and thousands of broken trees. An adviser to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Hartley Henry, said on Facebook: "The country is in a daze - no electricity, no running water - as a result of uprooted pipes in most communities and definitely [no] landline or cellphone services on island, and that will be for quite a while." Images from the capital, Roseau, show some streets knee-deep in debris. Aid agencies have been preparing to go to Dominica to provide relief. Hours before reaching Puerto Rico, Maria barrelled through the St Croix in the US Virgin Islands as a category five storm, sustaining winds of up to 175mph (281km/h). The French territory of Guadeloupe suffered flooding on Monday and one person was killed by a falling tree and another died on the seafront. At least two others were missing after their ship sank near Desirade, the easternmost island in the archipelago. Are you in an area affected by Hurricane Maria? Share your experience: haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk. Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also contact us in the following ways: ### Summary: Hurricane Maria has killed at least 10 people in Puerto Rico. The island's governor has asked President Donald Trump to declare the island a disaster area. The US president has made federal emergency aid available.

uk-england-hampshire-50011599

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-50011599

Isle of Wight school merger backed despite 'vile' rivalry

A school in West Wight has been recommended to relocate to Freshwater.

Isle of Wight Council said All Saints' Primary School in Freshwater would close in August 2020, with children moved to Yarmouth Primary School. Both schools would then relocate permanently to Freshwater in 2021. Councillor Paul Brading said he had been "disgusted" by online attacks between rival campaigners. The council said it had recommended the changes at a cabinet meeting on Thursday because of surplus places in West Wight. It said five schools were catering for about 90 children per year group - a number which it said would fall further. All Saints' parent Carly Wyre-Nock said the relocation was "fantastic for Freshwater". "There are lots of families in the village that don't have transport, that don't have the money to be able to get on a bus and drive," she said. 'Bad atmosphere' "People who attend Yarmouth School... still have the choice to drive. "There's been things on social media saying not very nice things about our children and about our families. It's been really stressful." Yarmouth parent Ieuan Jehu said: "There has been some bad atmosphere on social media. It's troubling and it's upsetting." Mr Brading, head of of education at the council, said: "There have been some pretty spiteful comments said, which has disgusted me really. Some of the things that have been said have been vile." The authority said the Freshwater site was due to receive a "multi-million-pound investment" from the government to "improve or replace" the buildings, before pupils from both schools are relocated there. Yarmouth school's governors previously dropped a legal challenge against the relocation. A final decision is due to be made in January.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Isle of Wight Council said All Saints' Primary School in Freshwater would close in August 2020, with children moved to Yarmouth Primary School. Both schools would then relocate permanently to Freshwater in 2021. Councillor Paul Brading said he had been "disgusted" by online attacks between rival campaigners. The council said it had recommended the changes at a cabinet meeting on Thursday because of surplus places in West Wight. It said five schools were catering for about 90 children per year group - a number which it said would fall further. All Saints' parent Carly Wyre-Nock said the relocation was "fantastic for Freshwater". "There are lots of families in the village that don't have transport, that don't have the money to be able to get on a bus and drive," she said. 'Bad atmosphere' "People who attend Yarmouth School... still have the choice to drive. "There's been things on social media saying not very nice things about our children and about our families. It's been really stressful." Yarmouth parent Ieuan Jehu said: "There has been some bad atmosphere on social media. It's troubling and it's upsetting." Mr Brading, head of of education at the council, said: "There have been some pretty spiteful comments said, which has disgusted me really. Some of the things that have been said have been vile." The authority said the Freshwater site was due to receive a "multi-million-pound investment" from the government to "improve or replace" the buildings, before pupils from both schools are relocated there. Yarmouth school's governors previously dropped a legal challenge against the relocation. A final decision is due to be made in January. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Isle of Wight Council said All Saints' Primary School in Freshwater would close in August 2020, with children moved to Yarmouth Primary School. Both schools would then relocate permanently to Freshwater in 2021. Councillor Paul Brading said he had been "disgusted" by online attacks between rival campaigners. The council said it had recommended the changes at a cabinet meeting on Thursday because of surplus places in West Wight. It said five schools were catering for about 90 children per year group - a number which it said would fall further. All Saints' parent Carly Wyre-Nock said the relocation was "fantastic for Freshwater". "There are lots of families in the village that don't have transport, that don't have the money to be able to get on a bus and drive," she said. 'Bad atmosphere' "People who attend Yarmouth School... still have the choice to drive. "There's been things on social media saying not very nice things about our children and about our families. It's been really stressful." Yarmouth parent Ieuan Jehu said: "There has been some bad atmosphere on social media. It's troubling and it's upsetting." Mr Brading, head of of education at the council, said: "There have been some pretty spiteful comments said, which has disgusted me really. Some of the things that have been said have been vile." The authority said the Freshwater site was due to receive a "multi-million-pound investment" from the government to "improve or replace" the buildings, before pupils from both schools are relocated there. Yarmouth school's governors previously dropped a legal challenge against the relocation. A final decision is due to be made in January. ### Summary: A school in West Wight has been recommended to relocate to Freshwater. ### Next steps: The school will be relocated to Freshwater in 2021. ### In this next story

world-asia-45168890

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-45168890

Afghanistan: Battle-torn Ghazni residents 'can't find food'

The Taliban have captured the city of Ghazni in Afghanistan, the government says.

"Life is getting hard for people, they can't get food or water," a man who fled the city on Sunday told the BBC. More than 100 government soldiers and police have been killed since the Taliban stormed Ghazni from four sides early on Friday. The city lies on the key highway between Kabul and Kandahar. Control of it would effectively allow the Taliban to cut off southern Afghanistan from Kabul, the capital. The success of the militants' assault has come as a blow to the government of President Ashraf Ghani, which has now deployed an extra 1,000 troops. The government and its Nato allies insist they are in control of Ghazni but reports suggest Taliban fighters continue to roam the streets and still control many government buildings. Phone communications are down, making it difficult to verify information coming out of the city. In a news conference confirming the deaths of more than 100 members of the security forces, the government said it had killed up to 200 Taliban fighters. Meanwhile, local media say a police officer has been killed by a bomb near the election commission's office in Kabul. A protest was taking place at the time. Those fleeing Ghazni say the situation for civilians is bleak, with at least 30 casualties among them, according to the government. More than 140 people have been wounded, hospital officials say, including security forces. "Medication at the main hospital is reportedly becoming scarce and people are unable to safely bring casualties for treatment," the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Afghanistan said in a statement on Monday. "According to sporadic reports from within the city, many families have reportedly taken shelter in their houses and are unable to leave their homes. Vital telecommunications networks and the electricity supply are down in the city of 270,000 people which has impacted on the water supply, and food is also reportedly running low." An activist from Ghazni who organised a protest march in Kabul on Monday said there was a humanitarian crisis. People are facing "serious hunger", Enayat Nasir told the BBC. He said the government had been warned a week ago it appeared a Taliban attack was imminent. "We said if you can't control the situation, Ghazni will collapse in one week. And that happened," he said. Some Afghan lawmakers have also accused the government of ignoring their warnings about the worsening security situation in the region. Late on Sunday, Mr Ghani said he was sending urgent reinforcements to the city "to consolidate operational gains". The US-led Nato mission in Afghanistan carried out 16 air strikes on Sunday and said "clearing operations" were ongoing. It accused the Taliban of using civilians as cover and said the group had "achieved nothing". Separately, it is reported that at least 100 Afghan army commandoes have gone missing in the east of Ghazni province, in Ajristan district. Officials have denied the reports. The battle for Ghazni and attacks elsewhere in Afghanistan come as pressure continues on the Taliban to enter peace talks with the Afghan government. Secret talks were recently held in Qatar between Taliban and US officials after an unprecedented three-day ceasefire during Eid celebrations in June that was largely respected by both sides.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: "Life is getting hard for people, they can't get food or water," a man who fled the city on Sunday told the BBC. More than 100 government soldiers and police have been killed since the Taliban stormed Ghazni from four sides early on Friday. The city lies on the key highway between Kabul and Kandahar. Control of it would effectively allow the Taliban to cut off southern Afghanistan from Kabul, the capital. The success of the militants' assault has come as a blow to the government of President Ashraf Ghani, which has now deployed an extra 1,000 troops. The government and its Nato allies insist they are in control of Ghazni but reports suggest Taliban fighters continue to roam the streets and still control many government buildings. Phone communications are down, making it difficult to verify information coming out of the city. In a news conference confirming the deaths of more than 100 members of the security forces, the government said it had killed up to 200 Taliban fighters. Meanwhile, local media say a police officer has been killed by a bomb near the election commission's office in Kabul. A protest was taking place at the time. Those fleeing Ghazni say the situation for civilians is bleak, with at least 30 casualties among them, according to the government. More than 140 people have been wounded, hospital officials say, including security forces. "Medication at the main hospital is reportedly becoming scarce and people are unable to safely bring casualties for treatment," the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Afghanistan said in a statement on Monday. "According to sporadic reports from within the city, many families have reportedly taken shelter in their houses and are unable to leave their homes. Vital telecommunications networks and the electricity supply are down in the city of 270,000 people which has impacted on the water supply, and food is also reportedly running low." An activist from Ghazni who organised a protest march in Kabul on Monday said there was a humanitarian crisis. People are facing "serious hunger", Enayat Nasir told the BBC. He said the government had been warned a week ago it appeared a Taliban attack was imminent. "We said if you can't control the situation, Ghazni will collapse in one week. And that happened," he said. Some Afghan lawmakers have also accused the government of ignoring their warnings about the worsening security situation in the region. Late on Sunday, Mr Ghani said he was sending urgent reinforcements to the city "to consolidate operational gains". The US-led Nato mission in Afghanistan carried out 16 air strikes on Sunday and said "clearing operations" were ongoing. It accused the Taliban of using civilians as cover and said the group had "achieved nothing". Separately, it is reported that at least 100 Afghan army commandoes have gone missing in the east of Ghazni province, in Ajristan district. Officials have denied the reports. The battle for Ghazni and attacks elsewhere in Afghanistan come as pressure continues on the Taliban to enter peace talks with the Afghan government. Secret talks were recently held in Qatar between Taliban and US officials after an unprecedented three-day ceasefire during Eid celebrations in June that was largely respected by both sides. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: "Life is getting hard for people, they can't get food or water," a man who fled the city on Sunday told the BBC. More than 100 government soldiers and police have been killed since the Taliban stormed Ghazni from four sides early on Friday. The city lies on the key highway between Kabul and Kandahar. Control of it would effectively allow the Taliban to cut off southern Afghanistan from Kabul, the capital. The success of the militants' assault has come as a blow to the government of President Ashraf Ghani, which has now deployed an extra 1,000 troops. The government and its Nato allies insist they are in control of Ghazni but reports suggest Taliban fighters continue to roam the streets and still control many government buildings. Phone communications are down, making it difficult to verify information coming out of the city. In a news conference confirming the deaths of more than 100 members of the security forces, the government said it had killed up to 200 Taliban fighters. Meanwhile, local media say a police officer has been killed by a bomb near the election commission's office in Kabul. A protest was taking place at the time. Those fleeing Ghazni say the situation for civilians is bleak, with at least 30 casualties among them, according to the government. More than 140 people have been wounded, hospital officials say, including security forces. "Medication at the main hospital is reportedly becoming scarce and people are unable to safely bring casualties for treatment," the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Afghanistan said in a statement on Monday. "According to sporadic reports from within the city, many families have reportedly taken shelter in their houses and are unable to leave their homes. Vital telecommunications networks and the electricity supply are down in the city of 270,000 people which has impacted on the water supply, and food is also reportedly running low." An activist from Ghazni who organised a protest march in Kabul on Monday said there was a humanitarian crisis. People are facing "serious hunger", Enayat Nasir told the BBC. He said the government had been warned a week ago it appeared a Taliban attack was imminent. "We said if you can't control the situation, Ghazni will collapse in one week. And that happened," he said. Some Afghan lawmakers have also accused the government of ignoring their warnings about the worsening security situation in the region. Late on Sunday, Mr Ghani said he was sending urgent reinforcements to the city "to consolidate operational gains". The US-led Nato mission in Afghanistan carried out 16 air strikes on Sunday and said "clearing operations" were ongoing. It accused the Taliban of using civilians as cover and said the group had "achieved nothing". Separately, it is reported that at least 100 Afghan army commandoes have gone missing in the east of Ghazni province, in Ajristan district. Officials have denied the reports. The battle for Ghazni and attacks elsewhere in Afghanistan come as pressure continues on the Taliban to enter peace talks with the Afghan government. Secret talks were recently held in Qatar between Taliban and US officials after an unprecedented three-day ceasefire during Eid celebrations in June that was largely respected by both sides. ### Summary: The Taliban have captured the city of Ghazni in Afghanistan, the government says. ### Source: By James Corben and Mark LowenBBC News, Kabul The Taliban have taken control of the

uk-politics-56578838

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-56578838

Greensill: What is the David Cameron lobbying row about?

David Cameron has been accused of lobbying for Greensill Capital.

Mr Cameron has been criticised for lobbying ministers on behalf of the company, in which he had a commercial interest. It's also been revealed he contacted Treasury officials and the Bank of England in an attempt to gain Greensill access to a Covid loan scheme. What did David Cameron do? In 2020, Mr Cameron lobbied ministers unsuccessfully to allow Greensill to issue government-backed loans, as part of the Corporate Covid Financing Facility (CCFF) - a scheme to help big firms through the pandemic. During this time, Mr Cameron contacted government ministers on several occasions, including sending text messages to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and contacting Treasury ministers Jesse Norman and John Glen about the company. Greensill Capital collapsed in March with the loss of 440 jobs. Who else did he lobby? Emails released by the Treasury show that Mr Cameron and Lex Greensill (the company's founder) also contacted senior civil servants in 2020 about their CCFF request. The department's top civil servant, Sir Tom Scholar, has told MPs that Mr Cameron called and texted him on his official phone. The Bank of England has also published correspondence showing that Mr Cameron had contacted senior officials there several times, in an unsuccessful attempt to win their support. He also met Health Secretary Matt Hancock - along with Mr Greensill - for a "private drink" in 2019 to discuss a new payment scheme for NHS staff. How did David Cameron come to work for Greensill? David Cameron was prime minister from 2010 to 2016. During this time, he appointed Australian financier Lex Greensill as an unpaid adviser. He was working on what's known as supply chain finance - making sure companies are paid on time. Mr Greensill was allowed to develop a scheme that would ensure small firms were paid more quickly by government departments. A Sunday Times investigation claims many in Whitehall had serious reservations about his role, and about the value of the scheme, from which his own company, Greensill Capital, would benefit. Two years after leaving office, Mr Cameron took a job with Greensill Capital. He has not said how much he was paid - Mr Cameron had shares in the company, but he denies claims that he told friends he was set to earn as much as £60m from them. Why was Mr Cameron's lobbying controversial? Mr Cameron has been criticised for using informal channels, such as texts and "private drinks" to pursue Greensill's case with ministers. In a statement, Mr Cameron admitted he should have contacted the government "through only the most formal of channels" when lobbying for a financial firm. But he denied that he broke any codes of conduct or any government rules on lobbying. However, the Labour Party says that existing lobbying rules do not provide enough transparency. And another former prime minister, Gordon Brown, has said that former ministers should never lobby for commercial purposes. What do the rules say? Current rules state that "on leaving office, ministers will be prohibited from lobbying government for two years". Before accepting new jobs, former ministers are supposed to inform a body called the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba). Acoba advises civil servants and politicians on what they can and can't do after leaving public service. However, although former ministers are required to contact Acoba, they are not obliged to act on its advice. Who else has been involved? It has also been revealed that a senior civil servant took a part-time job as an adviser at Greensill Capital in 2015, while he was still on the civil service payroll. Bill Crothers says his appointment was "agreed" by the Cabinet Office. As a civil servant, Mr Crothers was not obliged to seek Acoba's advice. Acoba's head, Lord Pickles, has told MPs the case highlights "a number of anomalies within the system that require... immediate address". How has the government reacted? The prime minister has announced a review into decisions made in government around Greensill's finance scheme and the role of Lex Greensill. It will be headed by government lawyer Nicholas Boardman and will report back to Boris Johnson by the end of June. Downing Street says the review will look at "how contracts were secured and how business representatives engaged with government". Labour has criticised the scope of the review - which is not expected to have any legal powers. Several other reviews are investigating matters related to lobbying and Greensill. Among them are: Mr Cameron says he will "respond positively" to any requests to give evidence to the Treasury Select Committee. However, this does not mean he will necessarily appear in person to answer MPs' questions. Why did Grensill go bust? The company's collapse earlier this year was triggered after its insurer refused to renew cover for the loans Greensill was making. Greensill was the principal financial backer of Liberty Steel, which employs 3,000 people in England, Scotland and Wales. Liberty Steel's future is now in doubt.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Cameron has been criticised for lobbying ministers on behalf of the company, in which he had a commercial interest. It's also been revealed he contacted Treasury officials and the Bank of England in an attempt to gain Greensill access to a Covid loan scheme. What did David Cameron do? In 2020, Mr Cameron lobbied ministers unsuccessfully to allow Greensill to issue government-backed loans, as part of the Corporate Covid Financing Facility (CCFF) - a scheme to help big firms through the pandemic. During this time, Mr Cameron contacted government ministers on several occasions, including sending text messages to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and contacting Treasury ministers Jesse Norman and John Glen about the company. Greensill Capital collapsed in March with the loss of 440 jobs. Who else did he lobby? Emails released by the Treasury show that Mr Cameron and Lex Greensill (the company's founder) also contacted senior civil servants in 2020 about their CCFF request. The department's top civil servant, Sir Tom Scholar, has told MPs that Mr Cameron called and texted him on his official phone. The Bank of England has also published correspondence showing that Mr Cameron had contacted senior officials there several times, in an unsuccessful attempt to win their support. He also met Health Secretary Matt Hancock - along with Mr Greensill - for a "private drink" in 2019 to discuss a new payment scheme for NHS staff. How did David Cameron come to work for Greensill? David Cameron was prime minister from 2010 to 2016. During this time, he appointed Australian financier Lex Greensill as an unpaid adviser. He was working on what's known as supply chain finance - making sure companies are paid on time. Mr Greensill was allowed to develop a scheme that would ensure small firms were paid more quickly by government departments. A Sunday Times investigation claims many in Whitehall had serious reservations about his role, and about the value of the scheme, from which his own company, Greensill Capital, would benefit. Two years after leaving office, Mr Cameron took a job with Greensill Capital. He has not said how much he was paid - Mr Cameron had shares in the company, but he denies claims that he told friends he was set to earn as much as £60m from them. Why was Mr Cameron's lobbying controversial? Mr Cameron has been criticised for using informal channels, such as texts and "private drinks" to pursue Greensill's case with ministers. In a statement, Mr Cameron admitted he should have contacted the government "through only the most formal of channels" when lobbying for a financial firm. But he denied that he broke any codes of conduct or any government rules on lobbying. However, the Labour Party says that existing lobbying rules do not provide enough transparency. And another former prime minister, Gordon Brown, has said that former ministers should never lobby for commercial purposes. What do the rules say? Current rules state that "on leaving office, ministers will be prohibited from lobbying government for two years". Before accepting new jobs, former ministers are supposed to inform a body called the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba). Acoba advises civil servants and politicians on what they can and can't do after leaving public service. However, although former ministers are required to contact Acoba, they are not obliged to act on its advice. Who else has been involved? It has also been revealed that a senior civil servant took a part-time job as an adviser at Greensill Capital in 2015, while he was still on the civil service payroll. Bill Crothers says his appointment was "agreed" by the Cabinet Office. As a civil servant, Mr Crothers was not obliged to seek Acoba's advice. Acoba's head, Lord Pickles, has told MPs the case highlights "a number of anomalies within the system that require... immediate address". How has the government reacted? The prime minister has announced a review into decisions made in government around Greensill's finance scheme and the role of Lex Greensill. It will be headed by government lawyer Nicholas Boardman and will report back to Boris Johnson by the end of June. Downing Street says the review will look at "how contracts were secured and how business representatives engaged with government". Labour has criticised the scope of the review - which is not expected to have any legal powers. Several other reviews are investigating matters related to lobbying and Greensill. Among them are: Mr Cameron says he will "respond positively" to any requests to give evidence to the Treasury Select Committee. However, this does not mean he will necessarily appear in person to answer MPs' questions. Why did Grensill go bust? The company's collapse earlier this year was triggered after its insurer refused to renew cover for the loans Greensill was making. Greensill was the principal financial backer of Liberty Steel, which employs 3,000 people in England, Scotland and Wales. Liberty Steel's future is now in doubt. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Mr Cameron has been criticised for lobbying ministers on behalf of the company, in which he had a commercial interest. It's also been revealed he contacted Treasury officials and the Bank of England in an attempt to gain Greensill access to a Covid loan scheme. What did David Cameron do? In 2020, Mr Cameron lobbied ministers unsuccessfully to allow Greensill to issue government-backed loans, as part of the Corporate Covid Financing Facility (CCFF) - a scheme to help big firms through the pandemic. During this time, Mr Cameron contacted government ministers on several occasions, including sending text messages to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and contacting Treasury ministers Jesse Norman and John Glen about the company. Greensill Capital collapsed in March with the loss of 440 jobs. Who else did he lobby? Emails released by the Treasury show that Mr Cameron and Lex Greensill (the company's founder) also contacted senior civil servants in 2020 about their CCFF request. The department's top civil servant, Sir Tom Scholar, has told MPs that Mr Cameron called and texted him on his official phone. The Bank of England has also published correspondence showing that Mr Cameron had contacted senior officials there several times, in an unsuccessful attempt to win their support. He also met Health Secretary Matt Hancock - along with Mr Greensill - for a "private drink" in 2019 to discuss a new payment scheme for NHS staff. How did David Cameron come to work for Greensill? David Cameron was prime minister from 2010 to 2016. During this time, he appointed Australian financier Lex Greensill as an unpaid adviser. He was working on what's known as supply chain finance - making sure companies are paid on time. Mr Greensill was allowed to develop a scheme that would ensure small firms were paid more quickly by government departments. A Sunday Times investigation claims many in Whitehall had serious reservations about his role, and about the value of the scheme, from which his own company, Greensill Capital, would benefit. Two years after leaving office, Mr Cameron took a job with Greensill Capital. He has not said how much he was paid - Mr Cameron had shares in the company, but he denies claims that he told friends he was set to earn as much as £60m from them. Why was Mr Cameron's lobbying controversial? Mr Cameron has been criticised for using informal channels, such as texts and "private drinks" to pursue Greensill's case with ministers. In a statement, Mr Cameron admitted he should have contacted the government "through only the most formal of channels" when lobbying for a financial firm. But he denied that he broke any codes of conduct or any government rules on lobbying. However, the Labour Party says that existing lobbying rules do not provide enough transparency. And another former prime minister, Gordon Brown, has said that former ministers should never lobby for commercial purposes. What do the rules say? Current rules state that "on leaving office, ministers will be prohibited from lobbying government for two years". Before accepting new jobs, former ministers are supposed to inform a body called the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba). Acoba advises civil servants and politicians on what they can and can't do after leaving public service. However, although former ministers are required to contact Acoba, they are not obliged to act on its advice. Who else has been involved? It has also been revealed that a senior civil servant took a part-time job as an adviser at Greensill Capital in 2015, while he was still on the civil service payroll. Bill Crothers says his appointment was "agreed" by the Cabinet Office. As a civil servant, Mr Crothers was not obliged to seek Acoba's advice. Acoba's head, Lord Pickles, has told MPs the case highlights "a number of anomalies within the system that require... immediate address". How has the government reacted? The prime minister has announced a review into decisions made in government around Greensill's finance scheme and the role of Lex Greensill. It will be headed by government lawyer Nicholas Boardman and will report back to Boris Johnson by the end of June. Downing Street says the review will look at "how contracts were secured and how business representatives engaged with government". Labour has criticised the scope of the review - which is not expected to have any legal powers. Several other reviews are investigating matters related to lobbying and Greensill. Among them are: Mr Cameron says he will "respond positively" to any requests to give evidence to the Treasury Select Committee. However, this does not mean he will necessarily appear in person to answer MPs' questions. Why did Grensill go bust? The company's collapse earlier this year was triggered after its insurer refused to renew cover for the loans Greensill was making. Greensill was the principal financial backer of Liberty Steel, which employs 3,000 people in England, Scotland and Wales. Liberty Steel's future is now in doubt. ### Summary: David Cameron has been accused of lobbying for Greensill Capital. He has been criticised for using informal channels, such as texts and "private drinks" to pursue Greensill's case with ministers

uk-england-london-55805172

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-55805172

Shaun Bailey: London mayoral candidate reported to CPS over leaflets

A London mayoral candidate has been accused of "cheap trick" by Labour.

Shaun Bailey used "City Hall"-branded paper to warn Londoners of an alleged 21.2% council tax increase. The letter warned: "London mayoral council tax rise. Do not ignore." The leaflet, sent in December, invited readers to sign a petition against any council tax rises. While a footnote included Mr Bailey's name and the address for the Conservative Party headquarters, the Tory Party logo and name were absent from the letter. The London Assembly member was reported to the CPS by Labour. In its submission to the CPS, Labour called the leaflets a "fraudulent device", as described by the 1983 Representation of People Act. Under election law, the CPS can investigate any breaches rather than the police. 'Work of fiction' Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner called for the Tories to apologise. She said Mr Bailey seemed "determined to insult voters' intelligence by bringing discredited Donald Trump-style fake news to London". "He has consistently misled over TfL finances, the congestion charge and council tax, and his latest leaflets are literally a work of fiction," she added. "Fake news, fake polls and fake leaflets will not only reflect badly on him and the Conservative Party but erode trust in politics." Luisa Porritt, the Liberal Democrat mayoral candidate, posted a picture of the leaflet on social media on 14 December, labelling it a "cheap trick". A spokesman for Mr Bailey said: "We published our leaflet because Londoners have a right to know when their mayor is planning to hike council tax." The CPS confirmed it had received the letter from Labour's lawyers but said it would not be making any further comment. The London mayoral election is due to be held on 6 May, having been postponed by 12 months due to coronavirus. Related Internet Links Crown Prosecution Service

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Shaun Bailey used "City Hall"-branded paper to warn Londoners of an alleged 21.2% council tax increase. The letter warned: "London mayoral council tax rise. Do not ignore." The leaflet, sent in December, invited readers to sign a petition against any council tax rises. While a footnote included Mr Bailey's name and the address for the Conservative Party headquarters, the Tory Party logo and name were absent from the letter. The London Assembly member was reported to the CPS by Labour. In its submission to the CPS, Labour called the leaflets a "fraudulent device", as described by the 1983 Representation of People Act. Under election law, the CPS can investigate any breaches rather than the police. 'Work of fiction' Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner called for the Tories to apologise. She said Mr Bailey seemed "determined to insult voters' intelligence by bringing discredited Donald Trump-style fake news to London". "He has consistently misled over TfL finances, the congestion charge and council tax, and his latest leaflets are literally a work of fiction," she added. "Fake news, fake polls and fake leaflets will not only reflect badly on him and the Conservative Party but erode trust in politics." Luisa Porritt, the Liberal Democrat mayoral candidate, posted a picture of the leaflet on social media on 14 December, labelling it a "cheap trick". A spokesman for Mr Bailey said: "We published our leaflet because Londoners have a right to know when their mayor is planning to hike council tax." The CPS confirmed it had received the letter from Labour's lawyers but said it would not be making any further comment. The London mayoral election is due to be held on 6 May, having been postponed by 12 months due to coronavirus. Related Internet Links Crown Prosecution Service ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Shaun Bailey used "City Hall"-branded paper to warn Londoners of an alleged 21.2% council tax increase. The letter warned: "London mayoral council tax rise. Do not ignore." The leaflet, sent in December, invited readers to sign a petition against any council tax rises. While a footnote included Mr Bailey's name and the address for the Conservative Party headquarters, the Tory Party logo and name were absent from the letter. The London Assembly member was reported to the CPS by Labour. In its submission to the CPS, Labour called the leaflets a "fraudulent device", as described by the 1983 Representation of People Act. Under election law, the CPS can investigate any breaches rather than the police. 'Work of fiction' Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner called for the Tories to apologise. She said Mr Bailey seemed "determined to insult voters' intelligence by bringing discredited Donald Trump-style fake news to London". "He has consistently misled over TfL finances, the congestion charge and council tax, and his latest leaflets are literally a work of fiction," she added. "Fake news, fake polls and fake leaflets will not only reflect badly on him and the Conservative Party but erode trust in politics." Luisa Porritt, the Liberal Democrat mayoral candidate, posted a picture of the leaflet on social media on 14 December, labelling it a "cheap trick". A spokesman for Mr Bailey said: "We published our leaflet because Londoners have a right to know when their mayor is planning to hike council tax." The CPS confirmed it had received the letter from Labour's lawyers but said it would not be making any further comment. The London mayoral election is due to be held on 6 May, having been postponed by 12 months due to coronavirus. Related Internet Links Crown Prosecution Service ### Summary: A London mayoral candidate has been accused of "cheap trick" by Labour. ### Next steps: The London Assembly member has been referred to the CPS by Labour. ### In this story: A London

business-40013077

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-40013077

Birmingham University to open campus in the Gulf

The University of Birmingham has announced it will open a campus in Dubai.

By Sean CoughlanEducation correspondent Vice-chancellor Sir David Eastwood said the campus in the Gulf would show the university's "global mission". The first phase of Birmingham's new outpost in the United Arab Emirates will open in the autumn. But most of the undergraduate and graduate courses, to be taught in English, will run from autumn 2018. While Dubai's shopping malls have collections of big-brand international shops, the Gulf state also has an expanding line-up of high-status international universities. Birmingham's new base will be in Dubai International Academic City, a purpose-built campus opened a decade ago, which already houses 26 universities from nine countries, with 25,000 students. Academic exports Students will be able to get a full University of Birmingham degree without having to leave the Gulf. Dubai already has branches of UK universities such as Exeter, Bradford, London Business School and Heriot-Watt. These rub shoulders alongside universities from Australia, the United States, Ireland, India and Russia. Not far away, in Abu Dhabi, there are branches of the Sorbonne from France and New York University from the US. More stories from the BBC's Global education series looking at education from an international perspective, and how to get in touch. You can join the debate at the BBC's Family & Education News Facebook page. Elsewhere in the Gulf, there are campuses of University College London and Carnegie Mellon in Qatar. The University of Aberdeen has also recently opened a campus in Qatar. There had been speculation that such bricks-and-mortar academic exports would have been overtaken by the rise in online technology. Competition for students With the emergence of the so-called "Moocs" - massive online open courses - there were suggestions that international students might prefer to study online, rather than need to have a campus built on their doorstep. But universities have continued to expand overseas - taking their brands to international students. There are now more than 240 international branch campuses around the world, according to figures compiled by the Cross-Border Education Research Team at the State University of New York. Not all have been a success, with more than 40 closures - but more than another 20 are in the pipeline to be opened. Universities from the United States, the UK and France have been the biggest builders of overseas branches - accounting for more than half of the overall total. These have clustered around the most lucrative and expanding markets - with China, the Gulf states, Malaysia and Singapore among the most common host countries. Teaching in English Such international campuses allow Western universities to tap into expanding markets. They can offer students a degree from a prestigious Western university, without the expense or visa barriers of studying abroad. And for universities in the UK, facing tough competition for students at home and financial uncertainties, it provides another potential source of tuition fees. Nottingham, Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle, Bolton, Middlesex and Reading all have international outposts. This internationalisation is also raising competition within Europe, with an increasing number of courses being taught in English, with the aim of attracting more overseas students. Universities in France have been making efforts to promote English-language courses to international students, including from the UK. Within English-speaking countries there have also been fluctuating trends in the international student market. The US and the UK have traditionally been the biggest players, but this month Canadian universities have claimed applications from overseas students are rising to "unprecedented" levels. The reason for the sudden preference for Canada, they say, is the rise of "isolationism" in the US and Europe.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Sean CoughlanEducation correspondent Vice-chancellor Sir David Eastwood said the campus in the Gulf would show the university's "global mission". The first phase of Birmingham's new outpost in the United Arab Emirates will open in the autumn. But most of the undergraduate and graduate courses, to be taught in English, will run from autumn 2018. While Dubai's shopping malls have collections of big-brand international shops, the Gulf state also has an expanding line-up of high-status international universities. Birmingham's new base will be in Dubai International Academic City, a purpose-built campus opened a decade ago, which already houses 26 universities from nine countries, with 25,000 students. Academic exports Students will be able to get a full University of Birmingham degree without having to leave the Gulf. Dubai already has branches of UK universities such as Exeter, Bradford, London Business School and Heriot-Watt. These rub shoulders alongside universities from Australia, the United States, Ireland, India and Russia. Not far away, in Abu Dhabi, there are branches of the Sorbonne from France and New York University from the US. More stories from the BBC's Global education series looking at education from an international perspective, and how to get in touch. You can join the debate at the BBC's Family & Education News Facebook page. Elsewhere in the Gulf, there are campuses of University College London and Carnegie Mellon in Qatar. The University of Aberdeen has also recently opened a campus in Qatar. There had been speculation that such bricks-and-mortar academic exports would have been overtaken by the rise in online technology. Competition for students With the emergence of the so-called "Moocs" - massive online open courses - there were suggestions that international students might prefer to study online, rather than need to have a campus built on their doorstep. But universities have continued to expand overseas - taking their brands to international students. There are now more than 240 international branch campuses around the world, according to figures compiled by the Cross-Border Education Research Team at the State University of New York. Not all have been a success, with more than 40 closures - but more than another 20 are in the pipeline to be opened. Universities from the United States, the UK and France have been the biggest builders of overseas branches - accounting for more than half of the overall total. These have clustered around the most lucrative and expanding markets - with China, the Gulf states, Malaysia and Singapore among the most common host countries. Teaching in English Such international campuses allow Western universities to tap into expanding markets. They can offer students a degree from a prestigious Western university, without the expense or visa barriers of studying abroad. And for universities in the UK, facing tough competition for students at home and financial uncertainties, it provides another potential source of tuition fees. Nottingham, Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle, Bolton, Middlesex and Reading all have international outposts. This internationalisation is also raising competition within Europe, with an increasing number of courses being taught in English, with the aim of attracting more overseas students. Universities in France have been making efforts to promote English-language courses to international students, including from the UK. Within English-speaking countries there have also been fluctuating trends in the international student market. The US and the UK have traditionally been the biggest players, but this month Canadian universities have claimed applications from overseas students are rising to "unprecedented" levels. The reason for the sudden preference for Canada, they say, is the rise of "isolationism" in the US and Europe. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Sean CoughlanEducation correspondent Vice-chancellor Sir David Eastwood said the campus in the Gulf would show the university's "global mission". The first phase of Birmingham's new outpost in the United Arab Emirates will open in the autumn. But most of the undergraduate and graduate courses, to be taught in English, will run from autumn 2018. While Dubai's shopping malls have collections of big-brand international shops, the Gulf state also has an expanding line-up of high-status international universities. Birmingham's new base will be in Dubai International Academic City, a purpose-built campus opened a decade ago, which already houses 26 universities from nine countries, with 25,000 students. Academic exports Students will be able to get a full University of Birmingham degree without having to leave the Gulf. Dubai already has branches of UK universities such as Exeter, Bradford, London Business School and Heriot-Watt. These rub shoulders alongside universities from Australia, the United States, Ireland, India and Russia. Not far away, in Abu Dhabi, there are branches of the Sorbonne from France and New York University from the US. More stories from the BBC's Global education series looking at education from an international perspective, and how to get in touch. You can join the debate at the BBC's Family & Education News Facebook page. Elsewhere in the Gulf, there are campuses of University College London and Carnegie Mellon in Qatar. The University of Aberdeen has also recently opened a campus in Qatar. There had been speculation that such bricks-and-mortar academic exports would have been overtaken by the rise in online technology. Competition for students With the emergence of the so-called "Moocs" - massive online open courses - there were suggestions that international students might prefer to study online, rather than need to have a campus built on their doorstep. But universities have continued to expand overseas - taking their brands to international students. There are now more than 240 international branch campuses around the world, according to figures compiled by the Cross-Border Education Research Team at the State University of New York. Not all have been a success, with more than 40 closures - but more than another 20 are in the pipeline to be opened. Universities from the United States, the UK and France have been the biggest builders of overseas branches - accounting for more than half of the overall total. These have clustered around the most lucrative and expanding markets - with China, the Gulf states, Malaysia and Singapore among the most common host countries. Teaching in English Such international campuses allow Western universities to tap into expanding markets. They can offer students a degree from a prestigious Western university, without the expense or visa barriers of studying abroad. And for universities in the UK, facing tough competition for students at home and financial uncertainties, it provides another potential source of tuition fees. Nottingham, Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle, Bolton, Middlesex and Reading all have international outposts. This internationalisation is also raising competition within Europe, with an increasing number of courses being taught in English, with the aim of attracting more overseas students. Universities in France have been making efforts to promote English-language courses to international students, including from the UK. Within English-speaking countries there have also been fluctuating trends in the international student market. The US and the UK have traditionally been the biggest players, but this month Canadian universities have claimed applications from overseas students are rising to "unprecedented" levels. The reason for the sudden preference for Canada, they say, is the rise of "isolationism" in the US and Europe. ### Summary: The University of Birmingham has announced it will open a campus in Dubai. ### Spelling and grammar The University of Birmingham has announced it will open a campus in Dubai. ### Images The University

uk-24566994

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-24566994

Crime falls 7% to record low in England and Wales

Crime in England and Wales has fallen to its lowest level since the survey began in 1981, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has said.

There were 8.5m incidents in the year to the end of June, compared with 9.1m the previous year. The drop comes despite a 9% rise in sexual offences, which was partly driven by the Jimmy Savile revelations of abuse. Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said England and Wales are safer than they have been "for decades". The headline crime figure is the lowest since the survey began in 1981, and has now fallen to half its peak level, recorded in 1995. Savile effect However, the Office for National Statistics, which collates the survey, said the number of historical sexual offences - those which took place more than 20 years ago - recorded by the police has doubled. The Savile inquiry has encouraged greater numbers of people to report historical sexual offence to the police. The ONS said that in the last five years there has been a 35% rise in the number of rape offences recorded by the police - partly due to new guidance on the way in which such crimes are recorded. An increase in theft was also recorded by the Crime Survey, with offences up by 8% in the last year. Evidence suggests the rise was driven by the theft of smart phones, and involve pick-pocketing rather than violence or threats. The majority are counted as stealth thefts - where the victim is unaware items are being stolen. Meanwhile, though credit card fraud levels remained flat, overall fraud offences have jumped by 21% in the last year. The ONS said the cause of this rise would become clearer in the next one or two years, but it could be down to a new centralised method of recording fraud. 'Still too high' Max Chambers, head of crime and justice at the think-tank Policy Exchange, said: "Whether you believe it's as the result of an ageing population, better policing and prevention, or the impact of the internet, there is little doubt that Britain is becoming a safer place to live, do business and raise a family. "But crime is still too high and there are pockets of the country which remain blighted by anti-social behaviour and gang activity. "While the latest figures show that the police have been able to cut crime substantially even with fewer resources, they must now redouble their efforts to tackle the hardcore of prolific offenders who commit offences that can often disproportionately hit the poor and the vulnerable." While welcoming falling crime rates, Jon Collins, deputy director of the Police Foundation - an independent policing think-tank - said it was important not to be "blind to new and emerging challenges". He said: "The police and the government should be wary of resting on their laurels. "While crimes such as burglary and car crime are clearly not the problem that they once were, it's possible that the official crime figures are just not picking up the extent to which new opportunities for crimes like fraud and counterfeiting have emerged, particularly online." Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said: "Police reform is working and crime is falling. "This is really positive news. Forces are rising to the challenge of making savings whilst cutting crime and delivering a better service to the public. "England and Wales are safer than they have been for decades but we will continue to deliver measures which keep pace with the changing nature of crime and improve our ability to combat emerging issues." The Crime Survey for England and Wales asks people aged 16 and over living in households in England and Wales about their experiences of crime in the last 12 months. These experiences are used to estimate levels of crime in England and Wales.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: There were 8.5m incidents in the year to the end of June, compared with 9.1m the previous year. The drop comes despite a 9% rise in sexual offences, which was partly driven by the Jimmy Savile revelations of abuse. Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said England and Wales are safer than they have been "for decades". The headline crime figure is the lowest since the survey began in 1981, and has now fallen to half its peak level, recorded in 1995. Savile effect However, the Office for National Statistics, which collates the survey, said the number of historical sexual offences - those which took place more than 20 years ago - recorded by the police has doubled. The Savile inquiry has encouraged greater numbers of people to report historical sexual offence to the police. The ONS said that in the last five years there has been a 35% rise in the number of rape offences recorded by the police - partly due to new guidance on the way in which such crimes are recorded. An increase in theft was also recorded by the Crime Survey, with offences up by 8% in the last year. Evidence suggests the rise was driven by the theft of smart phones, and involve pick-pocketing rather than violence or threats. The majority are counted as stealth thefts - where the victim is unaware items are being stolen. Meanwhile, though credit card fraud levels remained flat, overall fraud offences have jumped by 21% in the last year. The ONS said the cause of this rise would become clearer in the next one or two years, but it could be down to a new centralised method of recording fraud. 'Still too high' Max Chambers, head of crime and justice at the think-tank Policy Exchange, said: "Whether you believe it's as the result of an ageing population, better policing and prevention, or the impact of the internet, there is little doubt that Britain is becoming a safer place to live, do business and raise a family. "But crime is still too high and there are pockets of the country which remain blighted by anti-social behaviour and gang activity. "While the latest figures show that the police have been able to cut crime substantially even with fewer resources, they must now redouble their efforts to tackle the hardcore of prolific offenders who commit offences that can often disproportionately hit the poor and the vulnerable." While welcoming falling crime rates, Jon Collins, deputy director of the Police Foundation - an independent policing think-tank - said it was important not to be "blind to new and emerging challenges". He said: "The police and the government should be wary of resting on their laurels. "While crimes such as burglary and car crime are clearly not the problem that they once were, it's possible that the official crime figures are just not picking up the extent to which new opportunities for crimes like fraud and counterfeiting have emerged, particularly online." Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said: "Police reform is working and crime is falling. "This is really positive news. Forces are rising to the challenge of making savings whilst cutting crime and delivering a better service to the public. "England and Wales are safer than they have been for decades but we will continue to deliver measures which keep pace with the changing nature of crime and improve our ability to combat emerging issues." The Crime Survey for England and Wales asks people aged 16 and over living in households in England and Wales about their experiences of crime in the last 12 months. These experiences are used to estimate levels of crime in England and Wales. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: There were 8.5m incidents in the year to the end of June, compared with 9.1m the previous year. The drop comes despite a 9% rise in sexual offences, which was partly driven by the Jimmy Savile revelations of abuse. Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said England and Wales are safer than they have been "for decades". The headline crime figure is the lowest since the survey began in 1981, and has now fallen to half its peak level, recorded in 1995. Savile effect However, the Office for National Statistics, which collates the survey, said the number of historical sexual offences - those which took place more than 20 years ago - recorded by the police has doubled. The Savile inquiry has encouraged greater numbers of people to report historical sexual offence to the police. The ONS said that in the last five years there has been a 35% rise in the number of rape offences recorded by the police - partly due to new guidance on the way in which such crimes are recorded. An increase in theft was also recorded by the Crime Survey, with offences up by 8% in the last year. Evidence suggests the rise was driven by the theft of smart phones, and involve pick-pocketing rather than violence or threats. The majority are counted as stealth thefts - where the victim is unaware items are being stolen. Meanwhile, though credit card fraud levels remained flat, overall fraud offences have jumped by 21% in the last year. The ONS said the cause of this rise would become clearer in the next one or two years, but it could be down to a new centralised method of recording fraud. 'Still too high' Max Chambers, head of crime and justice at the think-tank Policy Exchange, said: "Whether you believe it's as the result of an ageing population, better policing and prevention, or the impact of the internet, there is little doubt that Britain is becoming a safer place to live, do business and raise a family. "But crime is still too high and there are pockets of the country which remain blighted by anti-social behaviour and gang activity. "While the latest figures show that the police have been able to cut crime substantially even with fewer resources, they must now redouble their efforts to tackle the hardcore of prolific offenders who commit offences that can often disproportionately hit the poor and the vulnerable." While welcoming falling crime rates, Jon Collins, deputy director of the Police Foundation - an independent policing think-tank - said it was important not to be "blind to new and emerging challenges". He said: "The police and the government should be wary of resting on their laurels. "While crimes such as burglary and car crime are clearly not the problem that they once were, it's possible that the official crime figures are just not picking up the extent to which new opportunities for crimes like fraud and counterfeiting have emerged, particularly online." Crime prevention minister Norman Baker said: "Police reform is working and crime is falling. "This is really positive news. Forces are rising to the challenge of making savings whilst cutting crime and delivering a better service to the public. "England and Wales are safer than they have been for decades but we will continue to deliver measures which keep pace with the changing nature of crime and improve our ability to combat emerging issues." The Crime Survey for England and Wales asks people aged 16 and over living in households in England and Wales about their experiences of crime in the last 12 months. These experiences are used to estimate levels of crime in England and Wales. ### Summary: Crime in England and Wales has fallen to its lowest level since the survey began in 1981, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has said. ### Text: The number of crimes recorded by the police

entertainment-arts-10682357

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-10682357

Sissons joins BBC 'sexism' debate

A former BBC News presenter has said she was "rarely told outright that you are not wanted".

Last week, Selina Scott said women were "rarely told outright that you are not wanted". Business was "conducted by whispers in corridors", she said. Sissons argued that such treatment was "the BBC way" and that it went "from top to bottom of the organisation, regardless of age or gender". The BBC has declined to comment. Sissons' comments came in a letter to the Daily Telegraph, the same publication where Ms Scott's comments first appeared last week. The chairman of the BBC Trust, Sir Michael Lyons, has offered to meet Ms Scott after she sent managers evidence of what she claimed were examples of "blatant and sometimes malign sexism and ageism against women" within the corporation. Speaking to the Telegraph, she said the BBC carried out "a casual maiming which leaves women with their confidence and career in tatters". But Sissons, 68, said in his letter he had encountered a "sly" management style "for many years". "It was a bitter complaint that I heard regularly during the 20 years I worked in the newsroom," he said. "Hundreds of demoralised people at Television Centre will testify to this," he added. In 2008, Scott reached a settlement with TV channel Five after suing them for age discrimination. She was reportedly being lined up to provide maternity cover for Five News host Natasha Kaplinsky but was subsequently overlooked.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Last week, Selina Scott said women were "rarely told outright that you are not wanted". Business was "conducted by whispers in corridors", she said. Sissons argued that such treatment was "the BBC way" and that it went "from top to bottom of the organisation, regardless of age or gender". The BBC has declined to comment. Sissons' comments came in a letter to the Daily Telegraph, the same publication where Ms Scott's comments first appeared last week. The chairman of the BBC Trust, Sir Michael Lyons, has offered to meet Ms Scott after she sent managers evidence of what she claimed were examples of "blatant and sometimes malign sexism and ageism against women" within the corporation. Speaking to the Telegraph, she said the BBC carried out "a casual maiming which leaves women with their confidence and career in tatters". But Sissons, 68, said in his letter he had encountered a "sly" management style "for many years". "It was a bitter complaint that I heard regularly during the 20 years I worked in the newsroom," he said. "Hundreds of demoralised people at Television Centre will testify to this," he added. In 2008, Scott reached a settlement with TV channel Five after suing them for age discrimination. She was reportedly being lined up to provide maternity cover for Five News host Natasha Kaplinsky but was subsequently overlooked. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Last week, Selina Scott said women were "rarely told outright that you are not wanted". Business was "conducted by whispers in corridors", she said. Sissons argued that such treatment was "the BBC way" and that it went "from top to bottom of the organisation, regardless of age or gender". The BBC has declined to comment. Sissons' comments came in a letter to the Daily Telegraph, the same publication where Ms Scott's comments first appeared last week. The chairman of the BBC Trust, Sir Michael Lyons, has offered to meet Ms Scott after she sent managers evidence of what she claimed were examples of "blatant and sometimes malign sexism and ageism against women" within the corporation. Speaking to the Telegraph, she said the BBC carried out "a casual maiming which leaves women with their confidence and career in tatters". But Sissons, 68, said in his letter he had encountered a "sly" management style "for many years". "It was a bitter complaint that I heard regularly during the 20 years I worked in the newsroom," he said. "Hundreds of demoralised people at Television Centre will testify to this," he added. In 2008, Scott reached a settlement with TV channel Five after suing them for age discrimination. She was reportedly being lined up to provide maternity cover for Five News host Natasha Kaplinsky but was subsequently overlooked. ### Summary: A former BBC News presenter has said she was "rarely told outright that you are not wanted". ### Source: By Lucy ManningBBC News The BBC's chairman, Sir Michael Lyons, has offered to

uk-wales-18492564

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-18492564

Cricketer Tom Maynard dies after being hit by Tube train

A man has died after being found on the tracks near Wimbledon Park station.

The batsman, 23, from Cardiff, played for his county in the t20 game against Kent on Sunday. Monday's incident involved a District Line train at Wimbledon Park station. Police said a man matching Maynard's description ran away after a car being driven "erratically" was stopped shortly before. The police watchdog IPCC is investigating. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "At approximately 04:15 BST on Monday, 18 June, officers stopped a vehicle after it was seen being driven erratically in Arthur Road, SW19. "The male driver of the vehicle - a black Mercedes C250 - made off on foot. Officers were unable to locate the man. "At approximately 05:10 BST the body of a man fitting the same description was found on tracks near Wimbledon Park station." London Ambulance Service medics were called but Maynard was pronounced dead at the scene. British Transport Police (BTP) said the death was not being treated as suspicious. The BTP said: "The incident was reported to BTP at 05:03 BST and is currently being treated as non-suspicious. "A file will be prepared for the coroner." A statement from the IPCC: "The IPCC was notified of an incident near to Wimbledon Park station in which the body of a man was found on the tracks. "Prior to the incident, officers from the Metropolitan Police Service stopped a vehicle being driven by a man matching the same description as the deceased. "Once a formal referral has been received from the MPS an assessment will take place regarding the level of IPCC involvement." In a statement, Surrey described Maynard as "an incredibly talented young batsman". Maynard, who came through the ranks at Glamorgan, was considered a rising star in the game and earned himself a place on the England Lions tour to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at the start of this year. He moved to The Oval at the start of last season following his father Matthew's departure from the Welsh county in 2010 after claiming his position had become "untenable". Surrey added: "His future potential was unlimited, with experts both inside and outside the club predicting he would soon follow in the footsteps of his father Matthew by graduating to full England honours." Chairman Richard Thompson said: "Our thoughts at this awful time are with Tom's family and friends and all those that were close to him. 'Utterly senseless tragedy' "Tom Maynard was a prodigiously talented young batsman who had made an incredible start to his career and was clearly destined for far greater things. "The impact Tom made in such a short period of time for Surrey CCC spoke for itself. There is a profound sense of loss at the passing of Tom. To lose anybody at such a young age is an utterly senseless tragedy." ECB chairman Giles Clarke said: "This is a very sad day for everyone connected with Surrey County Cricket club and for Glamorgan County Cricket club where Tom spent the early part of his career. "Tom was a player of enormous potential who had already represented England Lions and had an exciting future ahead of him. Our hearts go out to the Maynard family for their tragic loss and we send them and all Tom's many friends and colleagues within the game our deepest sympathies." Surrey's Friends Life t20 game against the Hampshire Royals at the Kia Oval on Wednesday has been postponed. England cancelled their press conference at Surrey's home, the Oval, ahead of the one-day international with the West Indies on Tuesday. Former club Glamorgan said they are "deeply saddened" to hear of Maynard's death. A statement added: "The club's thoughts are with Matt, Sue and their family at this difficult time. "Most of our playing and coaching staff were close friends of Tom and understandably are still trying to come to terms with this sad news." 'Really nice guy' Tributes have begun coming from leading figures in the cricketing world. Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff said on Twitter: "Tragic news that a great lad, Tom Maynard is no longer with us. All my thoughts are with his family at this awful time x x." Former England captain Michael Vaughan Tweeted: "Thoughts are with Matt Maynard and his family.. Words can't describe the Terribly sad news that Tom Maynard has died aged 23... #RIPTOM." "Can't believe the news about Tom Maynard !!!! Life can be so cruel ! Thoughts go out to his family !! Top bloke much talent ! R.I.P" tweeted former England bowler Matthew Hoggard. Surrey teammate and former England batsman Mark Ramprakash tweeted that Maynard was "a really nice guy who was a pleasure to play with".

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The batsman, 23, from Cardiff, played for his county in the t20 game against Kent on Sunday. Monday's incident involved a District Line train at Wimbledon Park station. Police said a man matching Maynard's description ran away after a car being driven "erratically" was stopped shortly before. The police watchdog IPCC is investigating. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "At approximately 04:15 BST on Monday, 18 June, officers stopped a vehicle after it was seen being driven erratically in Arthur Road, SW19. "The male driver of the vehicle - a black Mercedes C250 - made off on foot. Officers were unable to locate the man. "At approximately 05:10 BST the body of a man fitting the same description was found on tracks near Wimbledon Park station." London Ambulance Service medics were called but Maynard was pronounced dead at the scene. British Transport Police (BTP) said the death was not being treated as suspicious. The BTP said: "The incident was reported to BTP at 05:03 BST and is currently being treated as non-suspicious. "A file will be prepared for the coroner." A statement from the IPCC: "The IPCC was notified of an incident near to Wimbledon Park station in which the body of a man was found on the tracks. "Prior to the incident, officers from the Metropolitan Police Service stopped a vehicle being driven by a man matching the same description as the deceased. "Once a formal referral has been received from the MPS an assessment will take place regarding the level of IPCC involvement." In a statement, Surrey described Maynard as "an incredibly talented young batsman". Maynard, who came through the ranks at Glamorgan, was considered a rising star in the game and earned himself a place on the England Lions tour to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at the start of this year. He moved to The Oval at the start of last season following his father Matthew's departure from the Welsh county in 2010 after claiming his position had become "untenable". Surrey added: "His future potential was unlimited, with experts both inside and outside the club predicting he would soon follow in the footsteps of his father Matthew by graduating to full England honours." Chairman Richard Thompson said: "Our thoughts at this awful time are with Tom's family and friends and all those that were close to him. 'Utterly senseless tragedy' "Tom Maynard was a prodigiously talented young batsman who had made an incredible start to his career and was clearly destined for far greater things. "The impact Tom made in such a short period of time for Surrey CCC spoke for itself. There is a profound sense of loss at the passing of Tom. To lose anybody at such a young age is an utterly senseless tragedy." ECB chairman Giles Clarke said: "This is a very sad day for everyone connected with Surrey County Cricket club and for Glamorgan County Cricket club where Tom spent the early part of his career. "Tom was a player of enormous potential who had already represented England Lions and had an exciting future ahead of him. Our hearts go out to the Maynard family for their tragic loss and we send them and all Tom's many friends and colleagues within the game our deepest sympathies." Surrey's Friends Life t20 game against the Hampshire Royals at the Kia Oval on Wednesday has been postponed. England cancelled their press conference at Surrey's home, the Oval, ahead of the one-day international with the West Indies on Tuesday. Former club Glamorgan said they are "deeply saddened" to hear of Maynard's death. A statement added: "The club's thoughts are with Matt, Sue and their family at this difficult time. "Most of our playing and coaching staff were close friends of Tom and understandably are still trying to come to terms with this sad news." 'Really nice guy' Tributes have begun coming from leading figures in the cricketing world. Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff said on Twitter: "Tragic news that a great lad, Tom Maynard is no longer with us. All my thoughts are with his family at this awful time x x." Former England captain Michael Vaughan Tweeted: "Thoughts are with Matt Maynard and his family.. Words can't describe the Terribly sad news that Tom Maynard has died aged 23... #RIPTOM." "Can't believe the news about Tom Maynard!!!! Life can be so cruel! Thoughts go out to his family!! Top bloke much talent! R.I.P" tweeted former England bowler Matthew Hoggard. Surrey teammate and former England batsman Mark Ramprakash tweeted that Maynard was "a really nice guy who was a pleasure to play with". ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The batsman, 23, from Cardiff, played for his county in the t20 game against Kent on Sunday. Monday's incident involved a District Line train at Wimbledon Park station. Police said a man matching Maynard's description ran away after a car being driven "erratically" was stopped shortly before. The police watchdog IPCC is investigating. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "At approximately 04:15 BST on Monday, 18 June, officers stopped a vehicle after it was seen being driven erratically in Arthur Road, SW19. "The male driver of the vehicle - a black Mercedes C250 - made off on foot. Officers were unable to locate the man. "At approximately 05:10 BST the body of a man fitting the same description was found on tracks near Wimbledon Park station." London Ambulance Service medics were called but Maynard was pronounced dead at the scene. British Transport Police (BTP) said the death was not being treated as suspicious. The BTP said: "The incident was reported to BTP at 05:03 BST and is currently being treated as non-suspicious. "A file will be prepared for the coroner." A statement from the IPCC: "The IPCC was notified of an incident near to Wimbledon Park station in which the body of a man was found on the tracks. "Prior to the incident, officers from the Metropolitan Police Service stopped a vehicle being driven by a man matching the same description as the deceased. "Once a formal referral has been received from the MPS an assessment will take place regarding the level of IPCC involvement." In a statement, Surrey described Maynard as "an incredibly talented young batsman". Maynard, who came through the ranks at Glamorgan, was considered a rising star in the game and earned himself a place on the England Lions tour to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at the start of this year. He moved to The Oval at the start of last season following his father Matthew's departure from the Welsh county in 2010 after claiming his position had become "untenable". Surrey added: "His future potential was unlimited, with experts both inside and outside the club predicting he would soon follow in the footsteps of his father Matthew by graduating to full England honours." Chairman Richard Thompson said: "Our thoughts at this awful time are with Tom's family and friends and all those that were close to him. 'Utterly senseless tragedy' "Tom Maynard was a prodigiously talented young batsman who had made an incredible start to his career and was clearly destined for far greater things. "The impact Tom made in such a short period of time for Surrey CCC spoke for itself. There is a profound sense of loss at the passing of Tom. To lose anybody at such a young age is an utterly senseless tragedy." ECB chairman Giles Clarke said: "This is a very sad day for everyone connected with Surrey County Cricket club and for Glamorgan County Cricket club where Tom spent the early part of his career. "Tom was a player of enormous potential who had already represented England Lions and had an exciting future ahead of him. Our hearts go out to the Maynard family for their tragic loss and we send them and all Tom's many friends and colleagues within the game our deepest sympathies." Surrey's Friends Life t20 game against the Hampshire Royals at the Kia Oval on Wednesday has been postponed. England cancelled their press conference at Surrey's home, the Oval, ahead of the one-day international with the West Indies on Tuesday. Former club Glamorgan said they are "deeply saddened" to hear of Maynard's death. A statement added: "The club's thoughts are with Matt, Sue and their family at this difficult time. "Most of our playing and coaching staff were close friends of Tom and understandably are still trying to come to terms with this sad news." 'Really nice guy' Tributes have begun coming from leading figures in the cricketing world. Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff said on Twitter: "Tragic news that a great lad, Tom Maynard is no longer with us. All my thoughts are with his family at this awful time x x." Former England captain Michael Vaughan Tweeted: "Thoughts are with Matt Maynard and his family.. Words can't describe the Terribly sad news that Tom Maynard has died aged 23... #RIPTOM." "Can't believe the news about Tom Maynard!!!! Life can be so cruel! Thoughts go out to his family!! Top bloke much talent! R.I.P" tweeted former England bowler Matthew Hoggard. Surrey teammate and former England batsman Mark Ramprakash tweeted that Maynard was "a really nice guy who was a pleasure to play with". ### Summary: A man has died after being found on the tracks near Wimbledon Park station. ### Text: A man has died after being found on the tracks near Wimbledon Park station. ### Summary:

world-us-canada-37121404

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-37121404

Louisiana floods: One of the worst recent US disasters

The Louisiana flood has been the worst in the state's history.

By Taylor Kate BrownBBC News, Washington The downpour continued for more than 72 hours, leading to widespread and dramatic flooding in the affected area and downstream along the Amite river. Louisiana has seen four times the average amount of rainfall for August. "What made this so disastrous is the large area," says Ken Graham, meteorologist-in-charge at the National Weather Service's New Orleans/Baton Rouge office. Graham says much of the eastern portion of the state, from the northern Mississippi border all the way to the Gulf of Mexico saw rainfall of at least 15in over 48 hours. That's about 11,000 sq miles, about twice the size of Connecticut. "Normally you would see some small pockets with these kinds of rainfall totals, but this is the largest area of this kind of rainfall I've seen in my career." The result has been devastating. At least 13 people have died and more than 40,000 homes have been damaged. Towns along the Amite river have experienced some of the worst flooding. In Denham Springs, the river topped at more than 46ft, some 4ft higher than its previous record in 1983. In one parish east of Baton Rouge, officials believe 75% of the homes had been damaged, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) has made disaster declaration in 20 of the state's 64 parishes. More than 86,500 people have registered for assistance from the agency. Dramatic video footage has emerged from the region, picturing people being rescued from houses and sinking cars. State officials estimate about 30,000 people have been rescued. Others have not been so lucky. According to the New York Times, a number of people have died after being swept away by surging rivers. For the state of Louisiana, the storm is among the worst in the state's history. Graham said there had been major flooding from storms in 1983 and 1995. "We talk about these as benchmarks - but this one beat them all." Thousands of members of the US National Guard have been deployed in the region to assist with search-and-rescue operations. The Red Cross has said it is launching its largest relief effort in America since Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In the four years since Sandy, other major disasters in the US have included, among others: A local Baton Rouge paper has criticised President Obama for not visiting the affected area, but he said on Friday he would visit the following week. On Tuesday Governor Bel Edwards made a comment that while federal agencies have been responsive, the flooding had not received as much attention as some of the major hurricanes that have hit the area. "When you have a storm that is unnamed - it wasn't a tropical storm, it wasn't a hurricane - a lot of times people underestimate the impact that it would have," Mr Edwards said, calling the flooding "historic" and "unprecedented". Additional reporting and production by Charlie Northcott

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Taylor Kate BrownBBC News, Washington The downpour continued for more than 72 hours, leading to widespread and dramatic flooding in the affected area and downstream along the Amite river. Louisiana has seen four times the average amount of rainfall for August. "What made this so disastrous is the large area," says Ken Graham, meteorologist-in-charge at the National Weather Service's New Orleans/Baton Rouge office. Graham says much of the eastern portion of the state, from the northern Mississippi border all the way to the Gulf of Mexico saw rainfall of at least 15in over 48 hours. That's about 11,000 sq miles, about twice the size of Connecticut. "Normally you would see some small pockets with these kinds of rainfall totals, but this is the largest area of this kind of rainfall I've seen in my career." The result has been devastating. At least 13 people have died and more than 40,000 homes have been damaged. Towns along the Amite river have experienced some of the worst flooding. In Denham Springs, the river topped at more than 46ft, some 4ft higher than its previous record in 1983. In one parish east of Baton Rouge, officials believe 75% of the homes had been damaged, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) has made disaster declaration in 20 of the state's 64 parishes. More than 86,500 people have registered for assistance from the agency. Dramatic video footage has emerged from the region, picturing people being rescued from houses and sinking cars. State officials estimate about 30,000 people have been rescued. Others have not been so lucky. According to the New York Times, a number of people have died after being swept away by surging rivers. For the state of Louisiana, the storm is among the worst in the state's history. Graham said there had been major flooding from storms in 1983 and 1995. "We talk about these as benchmarks - but this one beat them all." Thousands of members of the US National Guard have been deployed in the region to assist with search-and-rescue operations. The Red Cross has said it is launching its largest relief effort in America since Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In the four years since Sandy, other major disasters in the US have included, among others: A local Baton Rouge paper has criticised President Obama for not visiting the affected area, but he said on Friday he would visit the following week. On Tuesday Governor Bel Edwards made a comment that while federal agencies have been responsive, the flooding had not received as much attention as some of the major hurricanes that have hit the area. "When you have a storm that is unnamed - it wasn't a tropical storm, it wasn't a hurricane - a lot of times people underestimate the impact that it would have," Mr Edwards said, calling the flooding "historic" and "unprecedented". Additional reporting and production by Charlie Northcott ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Taylor Kate BrownBBC News, Washington The downpour continued for more than 72 hours, leading to widespread and dramatic flooding in the affected area and downstream along the Amite river. Louisiana has seen four times the average amount of rainfall for August. "What made this so disastrous is the large area," says Ken Graham, meteorologist-in-charge at the National Weather Service's New Orleans/Baton Rouge office. Graham says much of the eastern portion of the state, from the northern Mississippi border all the way to the Gulf of Mexico saw rainfall of at least 15in over 48 hours. That's about 11,000 sq miles, about twice the size of Connecticut. "Normally you would see some small pockets with these kinds of rainfall totals, but this is the largest area of this kind of rainfall I've seen in my career." The result has been devastating. At least 13 people have died and more than 40,000 homes have been damaged. Towns along the Amite river have experienced some of the worst flooding. In Denham Springs, the river topped at more than 46ft, some 4ft higher than its previous record in 1983. In one parish east of Baton Rouge, officials believe 75% of the homes had been damaged, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) has made disaster declaration in 20 of the state's 64 parishes. More than 86,500 people have registered for assistance from the agency. Dramatic video footage has emerged from the region, picturing people being rescued from houses and sinking cars. State officials estimate about 30,000 people have been rescued. Others have not been so lucky. According to the New York Times, a number of people have died after being swept away by surging rivers. For the state of Louisiana, the storm is among the worst in the state's history. Graham said there had been major flooding from storms in 1983 and 1995. "We talk about these as benchmarks - but this one beat them all." Thousands of members of the US National Guard have been deployed in the region to assist with search-and-rescue operations. The Red Cross has said it is launching its largest relief effort in America since Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In the four years since Sandy, other major disasters in the US have included, among others: A local Baton Rouge paper has criticised President Obama for not visiting the affected area, but he said on Friday he would visit the following week. On Tuesday Governor Bel Edwards made a comment that while federal agencies have been responsive, the flooding had not received as much attention as some of the major hurricanes that have hit the area. "When you have a storm that is unnamed - it wasn't a tropical storm, it wasn't a hurricane - a lot of times people underestimate the impact that it would have," Mr Edwards said, calling the flooding "historic" and "unprecedented". Additional reporting and production by Charlie Northcott ### Summary: The Louisiana flood has been the worst in the state's history. ### Text: The flooding has killed at least 13 people and destroyed more than 40,000 homes. ### Sum

uk-19534488

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19534488

Benefits changes: Universal Credit system warning

The government is considering a new system of Universal Credit to help people with low incomes.

The Universal Credit aims to make the system simpler by replacing five work-based benefits with one benefit. The groups are worried about new monthly payments, access to an online system and whether IT will be ready, while Labour wants a Commons debate. Ministers say the online system replaces a "costly, outdated" one and the benefit is set to come in on time. They describe Universal Credit as "the most radical redesign of the benefits system this country has ever seen," saying it pays people to work rather than claim benefits. Written evidence, seen by BBC Radio 4's The World This Weekend, was submitted to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee by organisations representing councils, charities, trades unions, business groups and housing organisations. The Women's Budget Group is among those expressing concerns about new monthly payments, saying "many on low incomes in work have wages and/or benefits and tax credits paid more frequently, which matches common budgeting patterns for those on low incomes". The group, which works towards "a gender equal society", adds: "Women are likely to be hit harder, as in low income families they tend to make more frequent purchases that will be squeezed as money is stretched." The BBC's Chris Mason says there are also concerns that a policy of paying the Universal Credit to just one person in a household could, in some instances, upset the family dynamic - potentially putting that individual in a position of considerable power and influence. And Gingerbread, the charity for single parents, asks: "What consideration has been given to providing grants to cover a shortfall when transitioning from fortnightly to monthly payments, rather than claimants having to rely on budgeting advances or 'pay-day loans' which need to be repaid?" Benefits claimant Chris O'Reilly, 50, from Clapton, told BBC News that the move to monthly payments "won't work at all". "I can't budget for that," he told Radio 4's The World This Weekend. "I will go without electricity, or I may go without gas." 'Rigorous testing' The Local Government Association, meanwhile, is among groups concerned that there is "a real risk that the central government Universal Credit IT systems will not be ready on time". Another change to the benefits system will force businesses to report their employees' pay each time they are paid, a move described by the Chartered Institute of Taxation as an extra "significant and difficult burden". The CBI business organisation says the new system's "tight delivery timetable, coupled with low awareness among companies, is a risk to business and to the implementation of the Universal Credit". The government's push for claimants to access benefits online is also questioned by some groups. Community charity Citizens Advice warns that the Universal Credit system "risks causing difficulties to the 8.5 million people who have never used the internet and a further 14.5 million who have virtually no ICT skills". However, the submissions also show that many organisations acknowledge the government's motivations for reform are sound. Labour's Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Liam Byrne said: "Universal Credit is overdue and over budget and now everyone from the chancellor to charities, the CBI to local councils is warning this is a car-crash about to happen. "We've been warning of this for months and we're summoning Iain Duncan Smith to the Commons for a full scale debate." But ministers insist the timetable for the introduction of Universal Credit remains on track to begin in October 2013. They say it will be phased in over a number of years, with eight million households signed up by 2017. A Department for Work and Pensions spokeswoman said: "Liam Byrne is quite simply wrong. Universal Credit is on track and on budget. To suggest anything else is incorrect." She said ministers intended to address concerns about the new system at a Work and Pensions Select Committee hearing. Face-to-face Earlier, the DWP said that the majority of Universal Credit IT systems had already been built and were being tested. Managing Universal Credit online made sense as it would save money, he said, adding that most jobs now required computer skills. "Research reveals that 74% of working age benefit claimants say they have broadband connection at home, 48% say they log on every day and 62% say they would be willing to make an application for a benefit or tax credit online," a spokesperson said. Deven Ghelani of the Centre for Social Justice think-tank, who helped shape the policy, told The World This Weekend: "Of course there need to be safeguards in place for those households and families that struggle. "With Universal Credit you are simplifying the system, which I think is fundamental to making it clear and making it work for many people." He said that resources would be freed up by the new, more efficient system to tackle problems experienced by some low-income households. He added: "A shift of Universal Credit is to be able to focus some of those resources on actually helping people, on an individual level, on a face-to-face level, helping them with the problems that they have in their life." But Labour MP Dame Anne Begg, chair of the Commons Work and Pensions Committee, said that recently she had been unable to find a broadband service for her own flat at less than £30 a month. "On the kind of income that many people on benefit have, that is completely out of the scope that they can afford," she said. The DWP spokesman said face-to-face and telephone support would be available to people struggling to access the Universal Credit system online.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Universal Credit aims to make the system simpler by replacing five work-based benefits with one benefit. The groups are worried about new monthly payments, access to an online system and whether IT will be ready, while Labour wants a Commons debate. Ministers say the online system replaces a "costly, outdated" one and the benefit is set to come in on time. They describe Universal Credit as "the most radical redesign of the benefits system this country has ever seen," saying it pays people to work rather than claim benefits. Written evidence, seen by BBC Radio 4's The World This Weekend, was submitted to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee by organisations representing councils, charities, trades unions, business groups and housing organisations. The Women's Budget Group is among those expressing concerns about new monthly payments, saying "many on low incomes in work have wages and/or benefits and tax credits paid more frequently, which matches common budgeting patterns for those on low incomes". The group, which works towards "a gender equal society", adds: "Women are likely to be hit harder, as in low income families they tend to make more frequent purchases that will be squeezed as money is stretched." The BBC's Chris Mason says there are also concerns that a policy of paying the Universal Credit to just one person in a household could, in some instances, upset the family dynamic - potentially putting that individual in a position of considerable power and influence. And Gingerbread, the charity for single parents, asks: "What consideration has been given to providing grants to cover a shortfall when transitioning from fortnightly to monthly payments, rather than claimants having to rely on budgeting advances or 'pay-day loans' which need to be repaid?" Benefits claimant Chris O'Reilly, 50, from Clapton, told BBC News that the move to monthly payments "won't work at all". "I can't budget for that," he told Radio 4's The World This Weekend. "I will go without electricity, or I may go without gas." 'Rigorous testing' The Local Government Association, meanwhile, is among groups concerned that there is "a real risk that the central government Universal Credit IT systems will not be ready on time". Another change to the benefits system will force businesses to report their employees' pay each time they are paid, a move described by the Chartered Institute of Taxation as an extra "significant and difficult burden". The CBI business organisation says the new system's "tight delivery timetable, coupled with low awareness among companies, is a risk to business and to the implementation of the Universal Credit". The government's push for claimants to access benefits online is also questioned by some groups. Community charity Citizens Advice warns that the Universal Credit system "risks causing difficulties to the 8.5 million people who have never used the internet and a further 14.5 million who have virtually no ICT skills". However, the submissions also show that many organisations acknowledge the government's motivations for reform are sound. Labour's Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Liam Byrne said: "Universal Credit is overdue and over budget and now everyone from the chancellor to charities, the CBI to local councils is warning this is a car-crash about to happen. "We've been warning of this for months and we're summoning Iain Duncan Smith to the Commons for a full scale debate." But ministers insist the timetable for the introduction of Universal Credit remains on track to begin in October 2013. They say it will be phased in over a number of years, with eight million households signed up by 2017. A Department for Work and Pensions spokeswoman said: "Liam Byrne is quite simply wrong. Universal Credit is on track and on budget. To suggest anything else is incorrect." She said ministers intended to address concerns about the new system at a Work and Pensions Select Committee hearing. Face-to-face Earlier, the DWP said that the majority of Universal Credit IT systems had already been built and were being tested. Managing Universal Credit online made sense as it would save money, he said, adding that most jobs now required computer skills. "Research reveals that 74% of working age benefit claimants say they have broadband connection at home, 48% say they log on every day and 62% say they would be willing to make an application for a benefit or tax credit online," a spokesperson said. Deven Ghelani of the Centre for Social Justice think-tank, who helped shape the policy, told The World This Weekend: "Of course there need to be safeguards in place for those households and families that struggle. "With Universal Credit you are simplifying the system, which I think is fundamental to making it clear and making it work for many people." He said that resources would be freed up by the new, more efficient system to tackle problems experienced by some low-income households. He added: "A shift of Universal Credit is to be able to focus some of those resources on actually helping people, on an individual level, on a face-to-face level, helping them with the problems that ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The Universal Credit aims to make the system simpler by replacing five work-based benefits with one benefit. The groups are worried about new monthly payments, access to an online system and whether IT will be ready, while Labour wants a Commons debate. Ministers say the online system replaces a "costly, outdated" one and the benefit is set to come in on time. They describe Universal Credit as "the most radical redesign of the benefits system this country has ever seen," saying it pays people to work rather than claim benefits. Written evidence, seen by BBC Radio 4's The World This Weekend, was submitted to the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee by organisations representing councils, charities, trades unions, business groups and housing organisations. The Women's Budget Group is among those expressing concerns about new monthly payments, saying "many on low incomes in work have wages and/or benefits and tax credits paid more frequently, which matches common budgeting patterns for those on low incomes". The group, which works towards "a gender equal society", adds: "Women are likely to be hit harder, as in low income families they tend to make more frequent purchases that will be squeezed as money is stretched." The BBC's Chris Mason says there are also concerns that a policy of paying the Universal Credit to just one person in a household could, in some instances, upset the family dynamic - potentially putting that individual in a position of considerable power and influence. And Gingerbread, the charity for single parents, asks: "What consideration has been given to providing grants to cover a shortfall when transitioning from fortnightly to monthly payments, rather than claimants having to rely on budgeting advances or 'pay-day loans' which need to be repaid?" Benefits claimant Chris O'Reilly, 50, from Clapton, told BBC News that the move to monthly payments "won't work at all". "I can't budget for that," he told Radio 4's The World This Weekend. "I will go without electricity, or I may go without gas." 'Rigorous testing' The Local Government Association, meanwhile, is among groups concerned that there is "a real risk that the central government Universal Credit IT systems will not be ready on time". Another change to the benefits system will force businesses to report their employees' pay each time they are paid, a move described by the Chartered Institute of Taxation as an extra "significant and difficult burden". The CBI business organisation says the new system's "tight delivery timetable, coupled with low awareness among companies, is a risk to business and to the implementation of the Universal Credit". The government's push for claimants to access benefits online is also questioned by some groups. Community charity Citizens Advice warns that the Universal Credit system "risks causing difficulties to the 8.5 million people who have never used the internet and a further 14.5 million who have virtually no ICT skills". However, the submissions also show that many organisations acknowledge the government's motivations for reform are sound. Labour's Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Liam Byrne said: "Universal Credit is overdue and over budget and now everyone from the chancellor to charities, the CBI to local councils is warning this is a car-crash about to happen. "We've been warning of this for months and we're summoning Iain Duncan Smith to the Commons for a full scale debate." But ministers insist the timetable for the introduction of Universal Credit remains on track to begin in October 2013. They say it will be phased in over a number of years, with eight million households signed up by 2017. A Department for Work and Pensions spokeswoman said: "Liam Byrne is quite simply wrong. Universal Credit is on track and on budget. To suggest anything else is incorrect." She said ministers intended to address concerns about the new system at a Work and Pensions Select Committee hearing. Face-to-face Earlier, the DWP said that the majority of Universal Credit IT systems had already been built and were being tested. Managing Universal Credit online made sense as it would save money, he said, adding that most jobs now required computer skills. "Research reveals that 74% of working age benefit claimants say they have broadband connection at home, 48% say they log on every day and 62% say they would be willing to make an application for a benefit or tax credit online," a spokesperson said. Deven Ghelani of the Centre for Social Justice think-tank, who helped shape the policy, told The World This Weekend: "Of course there need to be safeguards in place for those households and families that struggle. "With Universal Credit you are simplifying the system, which I think is fundamental to making it clear and making it work for many people." He said that resources would be freed up by the new, more efficient system to tackle problems experienced by some low-income households. He added: "A shift of Universal Credit is to be able to focus some of those resources on actually helping people, on an individual level, on a face-to-face level, helping them with the problems that ### Summary: The government is considering a new system of Universal Credit to help people with low incomes. ### Spelling and grammar The government is considering a new system of Universal Credit to help people with low incomes. ###

health-44161348

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-44161348

How likely is your e-cigarette to explode?

A man who died after his e-cigarette exploded in his mouth has been identified as a man who was using a mechanical mod.

By Laurel IvesBBC Health The case has made headlines around the world, and is believed to be the first death caused by vaping products in the US. The man, Tallmadge D'Elia, died at his home in Florida when his device blew up and projected fragments into his skull. He was said to have suffered burns over 80% of his body. But how common are these kinds of incidents? In the UK, e-cigarettes have caused burns and fires, yet these cases are rare. Experts say the man who died was using a particular kind of vape pen, known as a mechanical mod, which is not that common in the UK. Mechanical mods do not use inner circuitry to regulate the voltage, and most e-cigarettes have more built-in safety features. Yet even these safer products can cause burns or fires if incorrectly used. Mark Gardiner, lead officer for product safety at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, explains: "Enthusiasts might experiment with different batteries and e-liquids to try and get the biggest vape. This can result in people building their own systems which can generate a lot of heat and then explode. "That said, even an unmodified product can go wrong, as can any product containing a lithium-ion battery. And if a battery fails and explodes then obviously it's an extra hazard if it's in your mouth." How to use e-cigarettes safely Source: Chartered Trading Standards Institute Fire services are reporting being called out to a small number of fires caused by exploding e-cigarettes usually as a result of using the wrong charger, over-charging the battery, or incorrectly storing it. Gary Asquith, station commander at West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service, says: "It's not the e-cigarettes that are unsafe in themselves, but the misuse of the lithium-ion batteries that they use." He recalls the case of a man whose spare e-cigarette battery exploded in his pocket. "We posted a CCTV video of a man in Leeds who was carrying a spare battery for his e-cigarette in his pocket. It came into contact with a coin and a key, short-circuited and exploded. "Most people aren't aware that this might happen. You can get carry cases for your spare batteries which you should put them in if you are going to keep them in your pocket." Mr Asquith also says he's been called out to a number of house fires caused by incorrect charging of e-cigarettes. "If you buy an e-cigarette and it doesn't come with a charger, and then you buy a cheap one online, that is when you might see the lithium-ion battery overcharging and catching fire." In February, Public Health England commissioned a report into e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. They found that there are three million users of e-cigarettes in the UK, compared with nine million cigarette smokers. The report noted: "Exploding e-cigarettes can cause severe burns and injuries that require intensive and prolonged medical treatment, especially when they explode in users' hands, pockets or mouths. "Incidents are very rare, the cause is uncertain but appears to be related to malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries." You may also be interested in: However, the authors of the report cautioned that e-cigarettes remained far safer than cigarettes which cause many more fires and injuries annually. Health experts say e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than smoking and have helped many people give up the habit. Dr Humayun Khan, a consultant in burns and plastic surgery at Wythenshawe hospital Manchester, said incidents of burns were infrequent. "We come across these cases about one or twice a year. They are mostly of minor injuries with small areas of burns. "As I recall they are mostly related to leakage or overheating of the batteries rather than an explosion. We have treated these superficial burns without surgery." Consumers who have experienced adverse effects with e-cigarettes can report these to the government's medicine watchdog, the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Laurel IvesBBC Health The case has made headlines around the world, and is believed to be the first death caused by vaping products in the US. The man, Tallmadge D'Elia, died at his home in Florida when his device blew up and projected fragments into his skull. He was said to have suffered burns over 80% of his body. But how common are these kinds of incidents? In the UK, e-cigarettes have caused burns and fires, yet these cases are rare. Experts say the man who died was using a particular kind of vape pen, known as a mechanical mod, which is not that common in the UK. Mechanical mods do not use inner circuitry to regulate the voltage, and most e-cigarettes have more built-in safety features. Yet even these safer products can cause burns or fires if incorrectly used. Mark Gardiner, lead officer for product safety at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, explains: "Enthusiasts might experiment with different batteries and e-liquids to try and get the biggest vape. This can result in people building their own systems which can generate a lot of heat and then explode. "That said, even an unmodified product can go wrong, as can any product containing a lithium-ion battery. And if a battery fails and explodes then obviously it's an extra hazard if it's in your mouth." How to use e-cigarettes safely Source: Chartered Trading Standards Institute Fire services are reporting being called out to a small number of fires caused by exploding e-cigarettes usually as a result of using the wrong charger, over-charging the battery, or incorrectly storing it. Gary Asquith, station commander at West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service, says: "It's not the e-cigarettes that are unsafe in themselves, but the misuse of the lithium-ion batteries that they use." He recalls the case of a man whose spare e-cigarette battery exploded in his pocket. "We posted a CCTV video of a man in Leeds who was carrying a spare battery for his e-cigarette in his pocket. It came into contact with a coin and a key, short-circuited and exploded. "Most people aren't aware that this might happen. You can get carry cases for your spare batteries which you should put them in if you are going to keep them in your pocket." Mr Asquith also says he's been called out to a number of house fires caused by incorrect charging of e-cigarettes. "If you buy an e-cigarette and it doesn't come with a charger, and then you buy a cheap one online, that is when you might see the lithium-ion battery overcharging and catching fire." In February, Public Health England commissioned a report into e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. They found that there are three million users of e-cigarettes in the UK, compared with nine million cigarette smokers. The report noted: "Exploding e-cigarettes can cause severe burns and injuries that require intensive and prolonged medical treatment, especially when they explode in users' hands, pockets or mouths. "Incidents are very rare, the cause is uncertain but appears to be related to malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries." You may also be interested in: However, the authors of the report cautioned that e-cigarettes remained far safer than cigarettes which cause many more fires and injuries annually. Health experts say e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than smoking and have helped many people give up the habit. Dr Humayun Khan, a consultant in burns and plastic surgery at Wythenshawe hospital Manchester, said incidents of burns were infrequent. "We come across these cases about one or twice a year. They are mostly of minor injuries with small areas of burns. "As I recall they are mostly related to leakage or overheating of the batteries rather than an explosion. We have treated these superficial burns without surgery." Consumers who have experienced adverse effects with e-cigarettes can report these to the government's medicine watchdog, the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Laurel IvesBBC Health The case has made headlines around the world, and is believed to be the first death caused by vaping products in the US. The man, Tallmadge D'Elia, died at his home in Florida when his device blew up and projected fragments into his skull. He was said to have suffered burns over 80% of his body. But how common are these kinds of incidents? In the UK, e-cigarettes have caused burns and fires, yet these cases are rare. Experts say the man who died was using a particular kind of vape pen, known as a mechanical mod, which is not that common in the UK. Mechanical mods do not use inner circuitry to regulate the voltage, and most e-cigarettes have more built-in safety features. Yet even these safer products can cause burns or fires if incorrectly used. Mark Gardiner, lead officer for product safety at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, explains: "Enthusiasts might experiment with different batteries and e-liquids to try and get the biggest vape. This can result in people building their own systems which can generate a lot of heat and then explode. "That said, even an unmodified product can go wrong, as can any product containing a lithium-ion battery. And if a battery fails and explodes then obviously it's an extra hazard if it's in your mouth." How to use e-cigarettes safely Source: Chartered Trading Standards Institute Fire services are reporting being called out to a small number of fires caused by exploding e-cigarettes usually as a result of using the wrong charger, over-charging the battery, or incorrectly storing it. Gary Asquith, station commander at West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service, says: "It's not the e-cigarettes that are unsafe in themselves, but the misuse of the lithium-ion batteries that they use." He recalls the case of a man whose spare e-cigarette battery exploded in his pocket. "We posted a CCTV video of a man in Leeds who was carrying a spare battery for his e-cigarette in his pocket. It came into contact with a coin and a key, short-circuited and exploded. "Most people aren't aware that this might happen. You can get carry cases for your spare batteries which you should put them in if you are going to keep them in your pocket." Mr Asquith also says he's been called out to a number of house fires caused by incorrect charging of e-cigarettes. "If you buy an e-cigarette and it doesn't come with a charger, and then you buy a cheap one online, that is when you might see the lithium-ion battery overcharging and catching fire." In February, Public Health England commissioned a report into e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. They found that there are three million users of e-cigarettes in the UK, compared with nine million cigarette smokers. The report noted: "Exploding e-cigarettes can cause severe burns and injuries that require intensive and prolonged medical treatment, especially when they explode in users' hands, pockets or mouths. "Incidents are very rare, the cause is uncertain but appears to be related to malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries." You may also be interested in: However, the authors of the report cautioned that e-cigarettes remained far safer than cigarettes which cause many more fires and injuries annually. Health experts say e-cigarettes are at least 95% less harmful than smoking and have helped many people give up the habit. Dr Humayun Khan, a consultant in burns and plastic surgery at Wythenshawe hospital Manchester, said incidents of burns were infrequent. "We come across these cases about one or twice a year. They are mostly of minor injuries with small areas of burns. "As I recall they are mostly related to leakage or overheating of the batteries rather than an explosion. We have treated these superficial burns without surgery." Consumers who have experienced adverse effects with e-cigarettes can report these to the government's medicine watchdog, the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. ### Summary: A man who died after his e-cigarette exploded in his mouth has been identified as a man who was using a mechanical mod. ### Next: A man who died after his e-cigarette expl

uk-wales-23343941

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-23343941

Farm wages: AMs pass powers bill using emergency rules

The Welsh government has introduced a bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (AWB).

Welsh ministers introduced the bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (AWB) in Wales after the UK government abolished the board in June. Rural Affairs Minister Alun Davies said the bill would help ensure a prosperous future for Welsh agriculture. But Conservatives accused him of showing "contempt" for the process of scrutinising legislation. The Welsh government maintains the AWB was central to the efficient operation of an industry made up of many small farms with large numbers of seasonal and casual workers working long hours performing "highly physical and dangerous tasks". The board oversaw six pay grades relating to workers skills, qualifications, experience and their level of responsibility. All the pay levels were set higher than the statutory minimum wage, currently £6.31 for workers aged 21 and over. Mr Davies said the bill provided "continuity of a statutory regime that is well-known and respected by the sector - a regime that acknowledges the distinctiveness of Welsh agriculture, supports skill development and encourages new entrants into the industry. "Agriculture is a fundamental part of Wales' economy, identity and rural heritage," he said. "I am very pleased that we have passed a bill that will strengthen our agricultural industry and protect our rural communities throughout Wales." 'Victorian' Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Antoinette Sandbach said Mr Davies had had "years and months to bring forward this legislation" and had instead chosen to do so using an emergency procedure over 24 hours. She accused him of showing "contempt" for the people and the process involved in scrutinising the legislation. Plaid Cymru AM Jocelyn Davies condemned Labour AMs for not backing her amendment to ban zero-hours contracts in agriculture. She said: "Senior Labour figures and trade unions have condemned zero-hours contracts in recent months, branding them exploitative and a throwback to the Victorian era. "Yet when Labour had the chance to outlaw them in the agricultural sector, as they did today, they decided to betray low-paid workers instead." 'Outdated' Farming unions have taken opposing views on whether the AWB was needed. The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) described it as a "vital means of persuading high calibre people to remain in or enter the industry. However, the National Farmers Union (NFU) backed UK ministers' decision to abolish it, saying it was "outdated and unnecessary". For 65 years the AWB was a forum for employer and employee representatives in England and Wales to decide on pay and conditions. The Welsh government opposed its abolition but was told by Whitehall it was not a devolved matter since it was mainly about non-devolved employment issues rather than agriculture. 'Abused' Ministers in Wales brought forward an emergency bill to retain the functions of the AWB, insisting it was central to the farming industry. Opposition AMs have criticised the speed with which the legislation went through the Senedd, saying procedure was being abused by ministers. But they welcomed the Welsh government's decision to allow the panel to propose wage levels, rather than simply advising the rural affairs minister on them. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own wages board.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Welsh ministers introduced the bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (AWB) in Wales after the UK government abolished the board in June. Rural Affairs Minister Alun Davies said the bill would help ensure a prosperous future for Welsh agriculture. But Conservatives accused him of showing "contempt" for the process of scrutinising legislation. The Welsh government maintains the AWB was central to the efficient operation of an industry made up of many small farms with large numbers of seasonal and casual workers working long hours performing "highly physical and dangerous tasks". The board oversaw six pay grades relating to workers skills, qualifications, experience and their level of responsibility. All the pay levels were set higher than the statutory minimum wage, currently £6.31 for workers aged 21 and over. Mr Davies said the bill provided "continuity of a statutory regime that is well-known and respected by the sector - a regime that acknowledges the distinctiveness of Welsh agriculture, supports skill development and encourages new entrants into the industry. "Agriculture is a fundamental part of Wales' economy, identity and rural heritage," he said. "I am very pleased that we have passed a bill that will strengthen our agricultural industry and protect our rural communities throughout Wales." 'Victorian' Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Antoinette Sandbach said Mr Davies had had "years and months to bring forward this legislation" and had instead chosen to do so using an emergency procedure over 24 hours. She accused him of showing "contempt" for the people and the process involved in scrutinising the legislation. Plaid Cymru AM Jocelyn Davies condemned Labour AMs for not backing her amendment to ban zero-hours contracts in agriculture. She said: "Senior Labour figures and trade unions have condemned zero-hours contracts in recent months, branding them exploitative and a throwback to the Victorian era. "Yet when Labour had the chance to outlaw them in the agricultural sector, as they did today, they decided to betray low-paid workers instead." 'Outdated' Farming unions have taken opposing views on whether the AWB was needed. The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) described it as a "vital means of persuading high calibre people to remain in or enter the industry. However, the National Farmers Union (NFU) backed UK ministers' decision to abolish it, saying it was "outdated and unnecessary". For 65 years the AWB was a forum for employer and employee representatives in England and Wales to decide on pay and conditions. The Welsh government opposed its abolition but was told by Whitehall it was not a devolved matter since it was mainly about non-devolved employment issues rather than agriculture. 'Abused' Ministers in Wales brought forward an emergency bill to retain the functions of the AWB, insisting it was central to the farming industry. Opposition AMs have criticised the speed with which the legislation went through the Senedd, saying procedure was being abused by ministers. But they welcomed the Welsh government's decision to allow the panel to propose wage levels, rather than simply advising the rural affairs minister on them. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own wages board. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Welsh ministers introduced the bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (AWB) in Wales after the UK government abolished the board in June. Rural Affairs Minister Alun Davies said the bill would help ensure a prosperous future for Welsh agriculture. But Conservatives accused him of showing "contempt" for the process of scrutinising legislation. The Welsh government maintains the AWB was central to the efficient operation of an industry made up of many small farms with large numbers of seasonal and casual workers working long hours performing "highly physical and dangerous tasks". The board oversaw six pay grades relating to workers skills, qualifications, experience and their level of responsibility. All the pay levels were set higher than the statutory minimum wage, currently £6.31 for workers aged 21 and over. Mr Davies said the bill provided "continuity of a statutory regime that is well-known and respected by the sector - a regime that acknowledges the distinctiveness of Welsh agriculture, supports skill development and encourages new entrants into the industry. "Agriculture is a fundamental part of Wales' economy, identity and rural heritage," he said. "I am very pleased that we have passed a bill that will strengthen our agricultural industry and protect our rural communities throughout Wales." 'Victorian' Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Antoinette Sandbach said Mr Davies had had "years and months to bring forward this legislation" and had instead chosen to do so using an emergency procedure over 24 hours. She accused him of showing "contempt" for the people and the process involved in scrutinising the legislation. Plaid Cymru AM Jocelyn Davies condemned Labour AMs for not backing her amendment to ban zero-hours contracts in agriculture. She said: "Senior Labour figures and trade unions have condemned zero-hours contracts in recent months, branding them exploitative and a throwback to the Victorian era. "Yet when Labour had the chance to outlaw them in the agricultural sector, as they did today, they decided to betray low-paid workers instead." 'Outdated' Farming unions have taken opposing views on whether the AWB was needed. The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) described it as a "vital means of persuading high calibre people to remain in or enter the industry. However, the National Farmers Union (NFU) backed UK ministers' decision to abolish it, saying it was "outdated and unnecessary". For 65 years the AWB was a forum for employer and employee representatives in England and Wales to decide on pay and conditions. The Welsh government opposed its abolition but was told by Whitehall it was not a devolved matter since it was mainly about non-devolved employment issues rather than agriculture. 'Abused' Ministers in Wales brought forward an emergency bill to retain the functions of the AWB, insisting it was central to the farming industry. Opposition AMs have criticised the speed with which the legislation went through the Senedd, saying procedure was being abused by ministers. But they welcomed the Welsh government's decision to allow the panel to propose wage levels, rather than simply advising the rural affairs minister on them. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own wages board. ### Summary: The Welsh government has introduced a bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (AWB). ### Text: The Welsh government has introduced a bill to retain the functions of the Agriculture Wages Board (

uk-northern-ireland-55622547

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-55622547

Ballyclare: Driver of car dies in crash with lorry

A man has died after a car crashed into a building in Carrickfergus.

It happened at 09:15 GMT on Monday in Carrickfergus Road near the Ballylagan Road, Ballynure. The man who died was the driver of the car. The scene of the crash is closed to traffic and may remain so for some time, police have said. Officers have appealed for witnesses and are also asking anyone who might have dashcam footage to come forward.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It happened at 09:15 GMT on Monday in Carrickfergus Road near the Ballylagan Road, Ballynure. The man who died was the driver of the car. The scene of the crash is closed to traffic and may remain so for some time, police have said. Officers have appealed for witnesses and are also asking anyone who might have dashcam footage to come forward. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: It happened at 09:15 GMT on Monday in Carrickfergus Road near the Ballylagan Road, Ballynure. The man who died was the driver of the car. The scene of the crash is closed to traffic and may remain so for some time, police have said. Officers have appealed for witnesses and are also asking anyone who might have dashcam footage to come forward. ### Summary: A man has died after a car crashed into a building in Carrickfergus. ### Next: A man has died after a car crashed into a building in Carrickfergus. ### Summary

entertainment-arts-13864046

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-13864046

What is the Cultural Olympiad?

The Cultural Olympiad has been rebranded as The London 2012 Festival.

By Vincent DowdArts reporter, BBC News Cultural Olympiad director Ruth Mackenzie made the announcement, insisting the creative involvement now dispels any thought that the event was not deemed interesting. "I feel that the 'let's say how rubbish the Cultural Olympiad is' line is a bit faded now," she says. The Cultural Olympiad was set up to give everyone in the UK a "chance to be part of London 2012 and inspire creativity across all forms of culture", the website says. 'Completely confident' The Olympiad will include events such as the Peace One Day concert, a reading challenge for children and a comedy season. "We're completely confident people will see the Cultural Olympiad as a huge hit. In fact they already do: over 14 million people have participated in it so far," Ms Mackenzie says. That figure comes from adding together audiences that have participated in anything that has already been branded as a Cultural Olympiad event. Emin says it is important culture is included in the Olympics. "London's going to be under a giant magnifying glass. You don't just judge a country by its stadium. The arts and culture are the soul of a country. that's what we have to be judged on, too." Despite 14 million people having already taken part in various Olympiad events, why are critics still claiming the event does not have the profile it was aiming for? In 2009, former Arts Council chairman Sir Christopher Frayling spoke out against the Olympiad, suggesting there were too many organisations involved, which would prevent it from being a success. 'Load of treats' He told The Stage newspaper that it had "too many front doors" and needed just "one ringmaster" to oversee the project. Now the last few weeks of the event, which officially starts on 21 June 2012 and runs until the final day of the Paralympics on 9 September, has been rebranded The London 2012 Festival. It is hoped the new name will boost ticket sales and give members of the public something to relate to. Although the full line-up of performers is not scheduled to be released until October - when the tickets go on sale - Ms MacKenzie is confident they have enough big names to draw the crowds. "There'll be artists such as Damon Albarn, the writer Toni Morrison, Miranda Hart, the visual artist Olafur Eliasson as well as Cate Blanchett and the Sydney Theatre Company. "So there's a whole load of treats already announced and much more to come." Overall the festival will cost almost £100m over four years, which is being funded from a variety of sources, including £80m of public money. The earlier stages of the Cultural Olympiad may have been handicapped by the breadth of its ambition, leaving the whole project seeming slightly amorphous. But the organisers are confident the public and the media will now start talking about The London 2012 Festival and less about the Cultural Olympiad.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Vincent DowdArts reporter, BBC News Cultural Olympiad director Ruth Mackenzie made the announcement, insisting the creative involvement now dispels any thought that the event was not deemed interesting. "I feel that the 'let's say how rubbish the Cultural Olympiad is' line is a bit faded now," she says. The Cultural Olympiad was set up to give everyone in the UK a "chance to be part of London 2012 and inspire creativity across all forms of culture", the website says. 'Completely confident' The Olympiad will include events such as the Peace One Day concert, a reading challenge for children and a comedy season. "We're completely confident people will see the Cultural Olympiad as a huge hit. In fact they already do: over 14 million people have participated in it so far," Ms Mackenzie says. That figure comes from adding together audiences that have participated in anything that has already been branded as a Cultural Olympiad event. Emin says it is important culture is included in the Olympics. "London's going to be under a giant magnifying glass. You don't just judge a country by its stadium. The arts and culture are the soul of a country. that's what we have to be judged on, too." Despite 14 million people having already taken part in various Olympiad events, why are critics still claiming the event does not have the profile it was aiming for? In 2009, former Arts Council chairman Sir Christopher Frayling spoke out against the Olympiad, suggesting there were too many organisations involved, which would prevent it from being a success. 'Load of treats' He told The Stage newspaper that it had "too many front doors" and needed just "one ringmaster" to oversee the project. Now the last few weeks of the event, which officially starts on 21 June 2012 and runs until the final day of the Paralympics on 9 September, has been rebranded The London 2012 Festival. It is hoped the new name will boost ticket sales and give members of the public something to relate to. Although the full line-up of performers is not scheduled to be released until October - when the tickets go on sale - Ms MacKenzie is confident they have enough big names to draw the crowds. "There'll be artists such as Damon Albarn, the writer Toni Morrison, Miranda Hart, the visual artist Olafur Eliasson as well as Cate Blanchett and the Sydney Theatre Company. "So there's a whole load of treats already announced and much more to come." Overall the festival will cost almost £100m over four years, which is being funded from a variety of sources, including £80m of public money. The earlier stages of the Cultural Olympiad may have been handicapped by the breadth of its ambition, leaving the whole project seeming slightly amorphous. But the organisers are confident the public and the media will now start talking about The London 2012 Festival and less about the Cultural Olympiad. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: By Vincent DowdArts reporter, BBC News Cultural Olympiad director Ruth Mackenzie made the announcement, insisting the creative involvement now dispels any thought that the event was not deemed interesting. "I feel that the 'let's say how rubbish the Cultural Olympiad is' line is a bit faded now," she says. The Cultural Olympiad was set up to give everyone in the UK a "chance to be part of London 2012 and inspire creativity across all forms of culture", the website says. 'Completely confident' The Olympiad will include events such as the Peace One Day concert, a reading challenge for children and a comedy season. "We're completely confident people will see the Cultural Olympiad as a huge hit. In fact they already do: over 14 million people have participated in it so far," Ms Mackenzie says. That figure comes from adding together audiences that have participated in anything that has already been branded as a Cultural Olympiad event. Emin says it is important culture is included in the Olympics. "London's going to be under a giant magnifying glass. You don't just judge a country by its stadium. The arts and culture are the soul of a country. that's what we have to be judged on, too." Despite 14 million people having already taken part in various Olympiad events, why are critics still claiming the event does not have the profile it was aiming for? In 2009, former Arts Council chairman Sir Christopher Frayling spoke out against the Olympiad, suggesting there were too many organisations involved, which would prevent it from being a success. 'Load of treats' He told The Stage newspaper that it had "too many front doors" and needed just "one ringmaster" to oversee the project. Now the last few weeks of the event, which officially starts on 21 June 2012 and runs until the final day of the Paralympics on 9 September, has been rebranded The London 2012 Festival. It is hoped the new name will boost ticket sales and give members of the public something to relate to. Although the full line-up of performers is not scheduled to be released until October - when the tickets go on sale - Ms MacKenzie is confident they have enough big names to draw the crowds. "There'll be artists such as Damon Albarn, the writer Toni Morrison, Miranda Hart, the visual artist Olafur Eliasson as well as Cate Blanchett and the Sydney Theatre Company. "So there's a whole load of treats already announced and much more to come." Overall the festival will cost almost £100m over four years, which is being funded from a variety of sources, including £80m of public money. The earlier stages of the Cultural Olympiad may have been handicapped by the breadth of its ambition, leaving the whole project seeming slightly amorphous. But the organisers are confident the public and the media will now start talking about The London 2012 Festival and less about the Cultural Olympiad. ### Summary: The Cultural Olympiad has been rebranded as The London 2012 Festival. ### Source: The Cultural Olympiad will be rebranded as The London 2012 Festival. ###

world-asia-30877011

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-30877011

Pakistan gunmen wound polio guard in Karachi

A polio vaccination campaign has been suspended in Pakistan after a man was shot dead.

The attack took place in the lawless Orangi area. Vaccination efforts have been suspended in the city. Media reports said the attackers, who were on a motorcycle, fled when police returned fire. Pakistan is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Militants say polio teams are spies or that the vaccine causes infertility. More than 60 polio workers or police guarding them have been killed in the country in the past two years. Last year, more than 300 polio cases were confirmed in Pakistan, the highest figure in 16 years. Monday's attack came as a three-day campaign targeting more than a million children got under way in Karachi. The police officer is in a critical condition in hospital. Earlier reports said he had been killed. The BBC's M Ilyas Khan in Islamabad says polio eradication efforts have faced growing opposition from Islamist militants since 2005. Last year the United Nations recommended all travellers from Pakistan must be given polio drops at airports, causing embarrassment to the country. Authorities hope for better results this year, our correspondent says. They say most of the new cases in 2014 originated in, or were linked to, a large population in the Waziristan region where the Taliban had banned vaccinations. This population has now become accessible following military action since last June that has expelled the militants from many parts of the area. Polio Source: World Health Organization How can Pakistan beat polio?

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The attack took place in the lawless Orangi area. Vaccination efforts have been suspended in the city. Media reports said the attackers, who were on a motorcycle, fled when police returned fire. Pakistan is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Militants say polio teams are spies or that the vaccine causes infertility. More than 60 polio workers or police guarding them have been killed in the country in the past two years. Last year, more than 300 polio cases were confirmed in Pakistan, the highest figure in 16 years. Monday's attack came as a three-day campaign targeting more than a million children got under way in Karachi. The police officer is in a critical condition in hospital. Earlier reports said he had been killed. The BBC's M Ilyas Khan in Islamabad says polio eradication efforts have faced growing opposition from Islamist militants since 2005. Last year the United Nations recommended all travellers from Pakistan must be given polio drops at airports, causing embarrassment to the country. Authorities hope for better results this year, our correspondent says. They say most of the new cases in 2014 originated in, or were linked to, a large population in the Waziristan region where the Taliban had banned vaccinations. This population has now become accessible following military action since last June that has expelled the militants from many parts of the area. Polio Source: World Health Organization How can Pakistan beat polio? ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: The attack took place in the lawless Orangi area. Vaccination efforts have been suspended in the city. Media reports said the attackers, who were on a motorcycle, fled when police returned fire. Pakistan is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Militants say polio teams are spies or that the vaccine causes infertility. More than 60 polio workers or police guarding them have been killed in the country in the past two years. Last year, more than 300 polio cases were confirmed in Pakistan, the highest figure in 16 years. Monday's attack came as a three-day campaign targeting more than a million children got under way in Karachi. The police officer is in a critical condition in hospital. Earlier reports said he had been killed. The BBC's M Ilyas Khan in Islamabad says polio eradication efforts have faced growing opposition from Islamist militants since 2005. Last year the United Nations recommended all travellers from Pakistan must be given polio drops at airports, causing embarrassment to the country. Authorities hope for better results this year, our correspondent says. They say most of the new cases in 2014 originated in, or were linked to, a large population in the Waziristan region where the Taliban had banned vaccinations. This population has now become accessible following military action since last June that has expelled the militants from many parts of the area. Polio Source: World Health Organization How can Pakistan beat polio? ### Summary: A polio vaccination campaign has been suspended in Pakistan after a man was shot dead. ### Text: A man has been shot dead in Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, after being attacked by a group of

business-54187614

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-54187614

Next: Staff working from home 'miss out on camaraderie'

Next has reported a fall in sales for the first six months of the year.

Next said that overall, the impact of the pandemic on business had been "expensive and miserable". But it had also seen some advantages from the upheaval, it added. Next said it expected some home working to continue and that the balance would "evolve over time". Along with all "non-essential" retailers, Next was forced to close its doors when the pandemic struck. But it continued to meet online orders after overhauling work practices at its warehouses to allow for social distancing. Announcing its financial results for the first six months of the year, including a 34% drop in sales over the worst of the lockdown, the fashion chain said some good had come from the experience. "It is remarkable what can be learnt from shutting down your entire operation and slowly, department by department, store by store, warehouse by warehouse, bringing it back to life," Next said in a statement. Warehouses and call centres had become more efficient, while staff in other areas had been forced to make more of new technology, it said. 'Frustrating and inefficient' However, it said having staff "sitting in their spare bedrooms, kitchens and conservatories" had had pros and cons. Video calls for large groups had proved "unwieldy, frustrating and inefficient". "Worst of all, perhaps, large video calls have encouraged the proliferation of one of the business world's most damaging practices - death by deck," it said. Explaining further, it said this meant "slideshow presentations that transform meetings from productive exchanges of ideas into boring, one-way lectures, with the 'presenters' rattling through bullet points already visible to their stultified audience". Next said the biggest problem with home working was the lack of spontaneous conversations and the chance to learn from colleagues. On the other hand, it had allowed people to focus more effectively on some solitary tasks, including systems coding and product design. Next said that had empowered individuals and been liberating. Millions of UK workers switched to working partly or completely from home when the country went into lockdown in March. Many welcomed the break from the daily commute and office politics, but the government is keen to encourage workers back into the office to revive city centres. Firms have taken a mixed approach. Some, such as Twitter, say employees might continue to work from home even after the threat from the virus subsides. Netflix boss Reed Hastings, however, wants staff to return to the office "12 hours after a vaccine is approved". 'Rule of six warning' Next's 34% fall in sales saw wedding outfits and work clothes particularly badly hit. However, it said the business had been "more resilient than we expected", with pre-tax profit totalling £9m for the first half of the year. It said it was fortunate that half of its revenues were already coming from online sales before the onset of the pandemic. It has revised its profit forecast for the full year from £195m to £300m. But it said that current rules to limit the spread of the virus, including the "rule of six", would depress demands for gifts and clothing, if still in force in December.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Next said that overall, the impact of the pandemic on business had been "expensive and miserable". But it had also seen some advantages from the upheaval, it added. Next said it expected some home working to continue and that the balance would "evolve over time". Along with all "non-essential" retailers, Next was forced to close its doors when the pandemic struck. But it continued to meet online orders after overhauling work practices at its warehouses to allow for social distancing. Announcing its financial results for the first six months of the year, including a 34% drop in sales over the worst of the lockdown, the fashion chain said some good had come from the experience. "It is remarkable what can be learnt from shutting down your entire operation and slowly, department by department, store by store, warehouse by warehouse, bringing it back to life," Next said in a statement. Warehouses and call centres had become more efficient, while staff in other areas had been forced to make more of new technology, it said. 'Frustrating and inefficient' However, it said having staff "sitting in their spare bedrooms, kitchens and conservatories" had had pros and cons. Video calls for large groups had proved "unwieldy, frustrating and inefficient". "Worst of all, perhaps, large video calls have encouraged the proliferation of one of the business world's most damaging practices - death by deck," it said. Explaining further, it said this meant "slideshow presentations that transform meetings from productive exchanges of ideas into boring, one-way lectures, with the 'presenters' rattling through bullet points already visible to their stultified audience". Next said the biggest problem with home working was the lack of spontaneous conversations and the chance to learn from colleagues. On the other hand, it had allowed people to focus more effectively on some solitary tasks, including systems coding and product design. Next said that had empowered individuals and been liberating. Millions of UK workers switched to working partly or completely from home when the country went into lockdown in March. Many welcomed the break from the daily commute and office politics, but the government is keen to encourage workers back into the office to revive city centres. Firms have taken a mixed approach. Some, such as Twitter, say employees might continue to work from home even after the threat from the virus subsides. Netflix boss Reed Hastings, however, wants staff to return to the office "12 hours after a vaccine is approved". 'Rule of six warning' Next's 34% fall in sales saw wedding outfits and work clothes particularly badly hit. However, it said the business had been "more resilient than we expected", with pre-tax profit totalling £9m for the first half of the year. It said it was fortunate that half of its revenues were already coming from online sales before the onset of the pandemic. It has revised its profit forecast for the full year from £195m to £300m. But it said that current rules to limit the spread of the virus, including the "rule of six", would depress demands for gifts and clothing, if still in force in December. ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Next said that overall, the impact of the pandemic on business had been "expensive and miserable". But it had also seen some advantages from the upheaval, it added. Next said it expected some home working to continue and that the balance would "evolve over time". Along with all "non-essential" retailers, Next was forced to close its doors when the pandemic struck. But it continued to meet online orders after overhauling work practices at its warehouses to allow for social distancing. Announcing its financial results for the first six months of the year, including a 34% drop in sales over the worst of the lockdown, the fashion chain said some good had come from the experience. "It is remarkable what can be learnt from shutting down your entire operation and slowly, department by department, store by store, warehouse by warehouse, bringing it back to life," Next said in a statement. Warehouses and call centres had become more efficient, while staff in other areas had been forced to make more of new technology, it said. 'Frustrating and inefficient' However, it said having staff "sitting in their spare bedrooms, kitchens and conservatories" had had pros and cons. Video calls for large groups had proved "unwieldy, frustrating and inefficient". "Worst of all, perhaps, large video calls have encouraged the proliferation of one of the business world's most damaging practices - death by deck," it said. Explaining further, it said this meant "slideshow presentations that transform meetings from productive exchanges of ideas into boring, one-way lectures, with the 'presenters' rattling through bullet points already visible to their stultified audience". Next said the biggest problem with home working was the lack of spontaneous conversations and the chance to learn from colleagues. On the other hand, it had allowed people to focus more effectively on some solitary tasks, including systems coding and product design. Next said that had empowered individuals and been liberating. Millions of UK workers switched to working partly or completely from home when the country went into lockdown in March. Many welcomed the break from the daily commute and office politics, but the government is keen to encourage workers back into the office to revive city centres. Firms have taken a mixed approach. Some, such as Twitter, say employees might continue to work from home even after the threat from the virus subsides. Netflix boss Reed Hastings, however, wants staff to return to the office "12 hours after a vaccine is approved". 'Rule of six warning' Next's 34% fall in sales saw wedding outfits and work clothes particularly badly hit. However, it said the business had been "more resilient than we expected", with pre-tax profit totalling £9m for the first half of the year. It said it was fortunate that half of its revenues were already coming from online sales before the onset of the pandemic. It has revised its profit forecast for the full year from £195m to £300m. But it said that current rules to limit the spread of the virus, including the "rule of six", would depress demands for gifts and clothing, if still in force in December. ### Summary: Next has reported a fall in sales for the first six months of the year. ### Source: Next has reported a fall in sales for the first six months of the year. ### Source: Next has reported a

technology-44995490

https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44995490

Fake news 'crowding out' real news, MPs say

The government has said it will introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "digital imprint".

Tory MP Damian Collins said people struggle to identify "fake news". MPs in their committee report said the issue threatens democracy and called for tougher social network regulation. The government said it plans to introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "digital imprint". This would mean that all political communications carried online would need to clearly identify who they were published by. Labour said the government "needs to wake up to the new challenges we face and finally update electoral laws". The report follows the Cambridge Analytica data scandal earlier this year. The London-based data analytics firms and tech giant Facebook were at the centre of a dispute over the harvesting and use of personal data - and whether it was used to influence the outcome of the US 2016 presidential election or the UK Brexit referendum. Both firms deny any wrongdoing. Arron Banks, the businessman who was the chief backer of the unofficial Leave.EU campaign, donating millions of pounds, was criticised for misleading the committee about his business dealings with Russia and for failing to demonstrate the source of the money. MPs also considered evidence from around the world of how elections could be manipulated and heard how Russian agencies worked to influence votes by running adverts on Facebook. Mr Collins told the BBC this had happened without the knowledge of the social network. "That's why we feel that this is now a threat to our democracy," he said. "If these tools that are so powerful, that can reach millions and millions of people all around the world at the touch of a button, if they can be effectively used to spread disinformation without the source of that information ever being revealed, as appears to be the case here, then that is a threat we have to confront." He made clear the term "fake news" as used by figures like US President Donald Trump is different to the "concerted campaigns of disinformation" in which people or agencies deliberately spread false stories. New laws must be introduced to clamp down on the "wild west" social media world, their report said. The committee also repeated its call for Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg to give evidence. Facebook said it shared the committee's goal of making political advertising more fair and transparent. It said it was working on ways to authenticate and label these type of adverts in the UK. The committee concluded that Arron Banks had misled them about his meetings with the Russian Embassy and had walked out of an evidence session to avoid scrutiny on the topic. It said that it was "unclear" where he had obtained the money for his donation to the leave campaign, and he had failed to demonstrate that it came from within the UK. Mr Banks "seemed to want to hide the extent of his contacts with Russia", which had discussed potential gold and diamond deals with him, and his spokesman Andy Wigmore was "a self-confessed liar", the committee said. Mr Collins said: "If it turned out to be the case that he profited from these relationships with the Russian people he was meeting and discussing business deals with, and he used that money to invest in the Brexit campaign, then I think that would be a really serious matter." The Information Commissioner's Office is also investigating whether the Leave.EU campaign, which Mr Banks co-founded, misused customer data from his insurance company for political purposes. Mr Banks has said that the funding for his donation came from his personal wealth and has described the information commissioner's investigation as "a politically motivated attack". Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Christopher Wylie and the firm's former chief executive, Alexander Nix, were among the 61 witnesses who did give evidence. A copy of the report was leaked on Friday by Dominic Cummings, the director of the official Brexit campaign group Vote Leave, who published it on his own blog. Mr Cummings was asked and officially summoned to take part in the inquiry - to respond to allegations made against the Vote Leave campaign - but he refused. Mr Cummings called the report "fake news". What did the committee find? The report said people were increasingly finding out about what is happening in the country, local communities and the world through social media - rather than through traditional forms of communication such as television, print media or the radio. People were also less likely to question information shared on social media because most trust their friends and family. The MPs said this is where malicious actors come in to try to influence the billions of people who use social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Fake news can come in a wide spectrum of forms, from satire and parody to fabricated images or propaganda, the report said. What does the report recommend? The report made a series of recommendations. It said: Mr Collins said: "Data crimes are real crimes, with real victims. This is a watershed moment in terms of people realising they themselves are the product, not just the user of a free service. "Their rights over their data must be protected." What has the reaction been? Labour's shadow secretary for digital, culture, media and sport, Tom Watson, said Britain's electoral laws needed updating "for the modern campaigning environment". "Labour called for increased powers for the Electoral Commission during the passage of the Data Protection Bill on digital imprints, the disclosure of funding sources and settings for targeted adverts and increasing the commission's investigatory powers. "These calls were rejected by the Conservatives," he said. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission welcomed the committee's report and said it backs calls to modernise electoral law. What does the government say? A spokeswoman said: "The government takes disinformation very seriously, as with all types of online manipulation and internet harms. "That is why we have said we will come forward with new online safety laws to make sure the UK is the safest place to be online. "We note the committee's report and will consider its final recommendations" The government is expected to publish a white paper later this year on proposals to reform laws to make the internet and social media safer. The committee's final report is expected before the end of the year.

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Tory MP Damian Collins said people struggle to identify "fake news". MPs in their committee report said the issue threatens democracy and called for tougher social network regulation. The government said it plans to introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "digital imprint". This would mean that all political communications carried online would need to clearly identify who they were published by. Labour said the government "needs to wake up to the new challenges we face and finally update electoral laws". The report follows the Cambridge Analytica data scandal earlier this year. The London-based data analytics firms and tech giant Facebook were at the centre of a dispute over the harvesting and use of personal data - and whether it was used to influence the outcome of the US 2016 presidential election or the UK Brexit referendum. Both firms deny any wrongdoing. Arron Banks, the businessman who was the chief backer of the unofficial Leave.EU campaign, donating millions of pounds, was criticised for misleading the committee about his business dealings with Russia and for failing to demonstrate the source of the money. MPs also considered evidence from around the world of how elections could be manipulated and heard how Russian agencies worked to influence votes by running adverts on Facebook. Mr Collins told the BBC this had happened without the knowledge of the social network. "That's why we feel that this is now a threat to our democracy," he said. "If these tools that are so powerful, that can reach millions and millions of people all around the world at the touch of a button, if they can be effectively used to spread disinformation without the source of that information ever being revealed, as appears to be the case here, then that is a threat we have to confront." He made clear the term "fake news" as used by figures like US President Donald Trump is different to the "concerted campaigns of disinformation" in which people or agencies deliberately spread false stories. New laws must be introduced to clamp down on the "wild west" social media world, their report said. The committee also repeated its call for Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg to give evidence. Facebook said it shared the committee's goal of making political advertising more fair and transparent. It said it was working on ways to authenticate and label these type of adverts in the UK. The committee concluded that Arron Banks had misled them about his meetings with the Russian Embassy and had walked out of an evidence session to avoid scrutiny on the topic. It said that it was "unclear" where he had obtained the money for his donation to the leave campaign, and he had failed to demonstrate that it came from within the UK. Mr Banks "seemed to want to hide the extent of his contacts with Russia", which had discussed potential gold and diamond deals with him, and his spokesman Andy Wigmore was "a self-confessed liar", the committee said. Mr Collins said: "If it turned out to be the case that he profited from these relationships with the Russian people he was meeting and discussing business deals with, and he used that money to invest in the Brexit campaign, then I think that would be a really serious matter." The Information Commissioner's Office is also investigating whether the Leave.EU campaign, which Mr Banks co-founded, misused customer data from his insurance company for political purposes. Mr Banks has said that the funding for his donation came from his personal wealth and has described the information commissioner's investigation as "a politically motivated attack". Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Christopher Wylie and the firm's former chief executive, Alexander Nix, were among the 61 witnesses who did give evidence. A copy of the report was leaked on Friday by Dominic Cummings, the director of the official Brexit campaign group Vote Leave, who published it on his own blog. Mr Cummings was asked and officially summoned to take part in the inquiry - to respond to allegations made against the Vote Leave campaign - but he refused. Mr Cummings called the report "fake news". What did the committee find? The report said people were increasingly finding out about what is happening in the country, local communities and the world through social media - rather than through traditional forms of communication such as television, print media or the radio. People were also less likely to question information shared on social media because most trust their friends and family. The MPs said this is where malicious actors come in to try to influence the billions of people who use social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Fake news can come in a wide spectrum of forms, from satire and parody to fabricated images or propaganda, the report said. What does the report recommend? The report made a series of recommendations. It said: Mr Collins said: "Data crimes are real crimes, with real victims. This is a watershed moment in terms of people realising they themselves are the product, not just the user of a free service. "Their rights over their data must be protected." What has the reaction been? Labour's shadow secretary for digital, culture, media and sport, Tom Watson, said Britain's electoral laws needed updating "for the modern campaigning environment". "Labour ### Summary:

Summarize the following text. ### Text: Tory MP Damian Collins said people struggle to identify "fake news". MPs in their committee report said the issue threatens democracy and called for tougher social network regulation. The government said it plans to introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "digital imprint". This would mean that all political communications carried online would need to clearly identify who they were published by. Labour said the government "needs to wake up to the new challenges we face and finally update electoral laws". The report follows the Cambridge Analytica data scandal earlier this year. The London-based data analytics firms and tech giant Facebook were at the centre of a dispute over the harvesting and use of personal data - and whether it was used to influence the outcome of the US 2016 presidential election or the UK Brexit referendum. Both firms deny any wrongdoing. Arron Banks, the businessman who was the chief backer of the unofficial Leave.EU campaign, donating millions of pounds, was criticised for misleading the committee about his business dealings with Russia and for failing to demonstrate the source of the money. MPs also considered evidence from around the world of how elections could be manipulated and heard how Russian agencies worked to influence votes by running adverts on Facebook. Mr Collins told the BBC this had happened without the knowledge of the social network. "That's why we feel that this is now a threat to our democracy," he said. "If these tools that are so powerful, that can reach millions and millions of people all around the world at the touch of a button, if they can be effectively used to spread disinformation without the source of that information ever being revealed, as appears to be the case here, then that is a threat we have to confront." He made clear the term "fake news" as used by figures like US President Donald Trump is different to the "concerted campaigns of disinformation" in which people or agencies deliberately spread false stories. New laws must be introduced to clamp down on the "wild west" social media world, their report said. The committee also repeated its call for Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg to give evidence. Facebook said it shared the committee's goal of making political advertising more fair and transparent. It said it was working on ways to authenticate and label these type of adverts in the UK. The committee concluded that Arron Banks had misled them about his meetings with the Russian Embassy and had walked out of an evidence session to avoid scrutiny on the topic. It said that it was "unclear" where he had obtained the money for his donation to the leave campaign, and he had failed to demonstrate that it came from within the UK. Mr Banks "seemed to want to hide the extent of his contacts with Russia", which had discussed potential gold and diamond deals with him, and his spokesman Andy Wigmore was "a self-confessed liar", the committee said. Mr Collins said: "If it turned out to be the case that he profited from these relationships with the Russian people he was meeting and discussing business deals with, and he used that money to invest in the Brexit campaign, then I think that would be a really serious matter." The Information Commissioner's Office is also investigating whether the Leave.EU campaign, which Mr Banks co-founded, misused customer data from his insurance company for political purposes. Mr Banks has said that the funding for his donation came from his personal wealth and has described the information commissioner's investigation as "a politically motivated attack". Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Christopher Wylie and the firm's former chief executive, Alexander Nix, were among the 61 witnesses who did give evidence. A copy of the report was leaked on Friday by Dominic Cummings, the director of the official Brexit campaign group Vote Leave, who published it on his own blog. Mr Cummings was asked and officially summoned to take part in the inquiry - to respond to allegations made against the Vote Leave campaign - but he refused. Mr Cummings called the report "fake news". What did the committee find? The report said people were increasingly finding out about what is happening in the country, local communities and the world through social media - rather than through traditional forms of communication such as television, print media or the radio. People were also less likely to question information shared on social media because most trust their friends and family. The MPs said this is where malicious actors come in to try to influence the billions of people who use social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Fake news can come in a wide spectrum of forms, from satire and parody to fabricated images or propaganda, the report said. What does the report recommend? The report made a series of recommendations. It said: Mr Collins said: "Data crimes are real crimes, with real victims. This is a watershed moment in terms of people realising they themselves are the product, not just the user of a free service. "Their rights over their data must be protected." What has the reaction been? Labour's shadow secretary for digital, culture, media and sport, Tom Watson, said Britain's electoral laws needed updating "for the modern campaigning environment". "Labour ### Summary: The government has said it will introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "digital imprint". ### Next steps The government has said it will introduce a requirement for electoral adverts to have a "