The Times May 19 2020

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Tuesday May 19 2020 | thetimes.co.uk | No 73163 2G £1.10 to subscribers
Admit it, you’re washing less!
You can
call me
fat. I am
Could it be good for your skin?
INSIDE
Robert Crampton
TIMES2
CLAUDIO FURLAN/LAPRESSE VIA AP Stop passing
the buck, top
scientist tells
politicians
Tom Whipple Science Editor
Ministers should not say “we are simply
doing what scientists tell us” over
coronavirus and be more open about
the advice they have received, the
incoming president of the Royal
Society has told The Times.
Sir Adrian Smith, a statistician, said
that the “extraordinary amounts of un-
certainty” with new viruses had been
played down in a political environment
where ministers felt they needed to
appear decisive.
He said that any backlash over the
handling of the coronavirus outbreak
would not be aimed at the scientists
because politicians made the decisions.
Sir Adrian said he expected that his
term leading Britain’s most distin-
guished scientific society, which begins
in November, would be marked by an
in-depth review into Britain’s response
and there was a risk that scientists
would be drawn into a blame game.
Milan joined the rest of Italy in opening cafés and restaurants and allowing friends to meet, ten weeks after the country imposed one of Europe’s strictest lockdowns “The danger is if the politicians keep
saying, ‘We’re simply doing what the
‘Air bridges’ plan revives
scientists tell us’. That could be awk-
ward. Politicians ultimately must make
the decisions,” he said.
“There will be a post mortem on this.
But I think the use of science and the
re-establishment of experts is some-
hope of summer flights thing that won’t go away. And I think it
won’t be the backlash that, you know,
the scientists, got it wrong.” Sir Adrian,
73, said it had been a failing of the gov-
ernment’s coronavirus strategy that
much of the decision-making had gone
on behind closed doors. “Openness and
6 6 transparency would have been by far
Quarantine could allow low-risk travel from July Smallest rise in deaths since lockdown the better option,” he said.
A list of the members of the govern-
Graeme Paton Transport Correspondent was also considering going “beyond ported in 5,889 care homes, or 38 per of tries, including France. British Airways ment’s scientific advisory group for
Oliver Wright Policy Editor what will initially be a blanket” quaran- those in England. has said that it will not increase flights emergencies (Sage) was released only a
tine to allow people from certain low- 6Bury council joined those in Liver- while the requirements are in place, fortnight ago, and full minutes of its
Britons were given fresh hope of a risk countries to enter the UK. It would pool and Hartlepool in announcing and at the weekend Virgin Atlantic said meetings are still not released. Sir Adri-
summer holiday abroad yesterday after create “air bridges” between Britain that it would defy government plans to it would take a similar stance because of an said that this had been counterpro-
the transport secretary announced and these countries, he said. Many reopen primary schools in England on concerns it would be unable to fill seats. ductive. “Even if nothing terribly secre-
plans for “air bridges” between coun- European countries, including Ger- June 1. Michael O’Leary, chief executive of tive and terrible is going on, you feed
tries with low coronavirus infection many, Spain and Italy, are starting to 6Network Rail warned commuters the budget airline Ryanair, said that the suspicion if you’re not transparent.”
rates. relax lockdown conditions as corona- that busy stations could be closed to policy was “idiotic” and could not be His criticism came as the Commons
Grant Shapps said that the strict virus infection rates ease. prevent overcrowding if too many policed, claiming that many people science and technology committee
quarantine on all arrivals into Britain The comments will raise hopes that passengers tried to board trains at would refuse to follow the lockdown called on the government to continual-
could be relaxed in favour of a more overseas travel, including summer holi- peak times. rules. Ryanair is planning to operate ly update the membership list of Sage,
targeted focus on people from high-risk days, may still be a possibility this year. 6China gave its backing to an investi- 1,000 flights a day by the start of July — the list of research papers it draws on,
countries. The strict quarantine could be relaxed gation into the origins of the corona- 40 per cent of its total — with passen- and a summary of the scientific advice
The blanket quarantine measures by the end of next month at the earliest. virus but insisted on it being carried out gers having to wear facemasks and on which decisions are made. The MPs
will be introduced from early next The development came as: by the World Health Organisation, set- undergo temperature checks at attacked the government’s record on
month to prevent a second outbreak of 6Britain’s death toll rose by 160 to ting up a clash with the United States, airports. “The 14-day lockdown has no testing, which they said left people in
Covid-19 in Britain. All arrivals into the 34,796, the lowest rise since the lock- which has lost patience with the body. credibility and I think will be eliminat- care homes exposed when the “spread
country — including Britons returning down began, with 2,684 new cases. The details on Britain’s “air bridges” ed by the time we get to the end of June of the virus was at its most rampant”.
from abroad — will have to self-isolate 6Ministers announced that Covid-19 emerged as airlines said that they anyway,” Mr O’Leary told Today on In assessing our response, Sir Adrian
for two weeks, with possible £1,000 tests would be available to anyone over would be unable to increase flight BBC Radio 4. argued, it would be important to sepa-
fines for those who breach the rules. the age of five who was suffering symp- schedules significantly while the blan- A spokesman for Airlines UK, the rate the role of scientists from politi-
It was made clear yesterday that the toms of the disease. ket quarantine requirements remained trade body, said: “Airlines are not going cians, but it was also crucial to acknowl-
restrictions would be reviewed every 6Public Health England expanded the in place. People travelling from Ireland to operate if people are effectively told edge the “extraordinary amount of
three weeks to ensure that they list of coronavirus symptoms to include and certain key groups, including haul- not to travel and that is going to do a lot uncertainty” in which those decisions
“remain effective and necessary”. a loss of smell or taste. iers, will be exempt from the blanket of damage both to our tourism industry had been made.
Speaking in the Commons Mr 6The government revealed that measures, although the rules will apply and businesses who rely on aviation for News and analysis, pages 4-11
Shapps confirmed that the government coronavirus outbreaks had been re- to those arriving from all other coun- Continued on page 2, col 3 Leading article, page 27
2 2GM Tuesday May 19 2020 | the times
News
BRITAIN’S MOST TRUSTED Criminals to avoid day in court
NATIONAL NEWSPAPER
CORONAVIRUS SUMMARY while legal backlog is cleared
Global
confirmed cases 4,870,182 319,174 Global deaths Fiona Hamilton Crime Editor the backlog is going to build. Techno- to explore if during the Covid phase we
logy-enabled justice will only assist so can extend the use of OOCD [out-of-
UK confirmed Thousands of prosecutions for drug, far in this regard.” court disposals].”
cases 246,406 34,796 UK deaths public order, theft and criminal damage Courtrooms across the country She emphasised that she would not
offences are set to be dropped as police stopped operating when the lockdown want high-harm cases, such as sexual
chiefs try to alleviate pressure on the began and, while some have started offences, to be dealt with outside the
Increase in virus testing Symptoms list defended court system, The Times has learnt. virtual hearings, many cases are being courts.
Officers have been told not to pursue delayed until restrictions are lifted. In January and February police
Anyone over the age of five with a A delay in adding loss of sense of criminal charges and instead apply out- Prosecutors have already been told to charged 7,885 suspects with theft and
cough, fever or loss of sense of smell to the list of coronavirus of-court measures, such as a caution or make the most serious criminal cases handling, 1,877 with criminal damage,
smell can apply for a coronavirus symptoms did not lead to cases community resolution, to clear a back- their priority. 5,511 with drug offences and 4,952 with
test on the NHS website, Matt being missed because the problem log caused by the coronavirus. Ms Glen warned that unless there public order offences. If police forces
Hancock, the health secretary, was “very rarely” seen on its own, Sara Glen, of the National Police was new investment in the criminal across England and Wales decide to
said, after an increase in capacity. according to officials. Jonathan Chiefs’ Council, said that forces should justice system, finding prosecution proceed instead with out-of-court
However, people who were Van-Tam, the deputy chief review cases and identify those that alternatives was the only way to avoid action for lower-level offences, thou-
rushing to book a test were medical officer, defended the could be dealt with outside court. Some two to three years of delays. sands of offenders will probably escape
warned that priority would be government against suggestions will be dealt with instead by using cau- She told chief constables to examine prosecution during the pandemic.
given to key workers. Mr Hancock that it had taken too long to tions, where conditions such as curfews less serious cases, such as theft and The NPCC refused to comment.
also revealed that more than recognise loss of smell as a key can be placed on suspects, while others handling, criminal damage, drug and The lockdown has helped to reduce
21,000 contact tracers had been symptom, even though it has been will be resolved by offenders apologis- public order offences to see if they crime across the UK, according to
recruited to track people who have recognised as such for weeks by ing or paying compensation to victims. could be dealt with out of court. The figures published this month by The
been at close quarters with known many European countries and Ms Glen, a deputy chief constable of alternatives are to apply a conditional Sunday Times.
cases. Page 4 the United States. Page 5 Hampshire, wrote in a letter last week: caution or use community resolution, Analysis supplied by police forces
“We all know the criminal justice such as an apology by the offender to across England, Wales and Northern
COMMENT system was already stretched before the victim, an offer of compensation or Ireland showed that reported crime fell
lockdown and social distancing meas- a promise to clear up any graffiti or by 9 per cent in March compared with
Concern about China’s behaviour is uniting
ures were put in place. Whilst it has had criminal damage. last year. Nearly every force saw a de-
Tories on both sides of the Brexit debate an impact on all agencies, the pressure She said that a high proportion of cline, with City of London police and
on the ability of HMCTS [HM Courts cases sent to magistrates’ court were British Transport Police recording the
RACHEL SYLVESTER, PAGE 23 and Tribunals Service] to ensure courts dealt already with via community re- biggest falls as people avoided public
hear cases is even more profound, and solution or a fine, adding: “We are keen transport and city centres.
Schools ‘will stay shut’ Rail passengers warned
Parliament’s ‘vanity project Facemasks at
Union chiefs have told members it Rail chiefs warned commuters
is “extremely unlikely” that that parts of the network
primary schools will reopen could be shut to prevent refurb’ could be scrapped Old Bailey as
on June 1 in England. The overcrowding after
National Education 58 services were increased trials restart
Union said there was for the first time since
no evidence that pupils the lockdown began. Matt Chorley Red Box Editor London Olympics, was established last
did not transmit Covid- DAYS OF UK Network Rail said that month to oversee the project’s delivery.
19. The European LOCKDOWN new protocols had been Plans for the £4 billion refurbishment However, its first act will be to order Jonathan Ames Legal Editor
Union said that the put in place to close busy of parliament could be torn up as a a review into whether the recom-
reopening of schools in 22 stations and enforce social result of the “altered political and eco- mendation for all MPs and peers to Jurors wore facemasks at the Old Bai-
member countries had not distancing. The number of nomic landscape” caused by the coro- move out still stands “given the com- ley yesterday as criminal trials restart-
increased the incidence of Covid- passengers using the Tube was up navirus outbreak. pletely altered political and economic ed despite concerns over safety.
19 significantly among children, by 18.5 per cent compared with There will be a review into whether to landscape”. The outcome of the review The Old Bailey is one of four courts
families or staff. Page 6 last week. Page 7 overturn a decision by MPs two years would be voted on by MPs at the end of to hear new cases for the first time since
ago to move out of the Palace of West- 2021, possibly leading to more delays. the lord chief justice stopped jury trials
China backs inquiry Global markets rally minster while the work is carried out. Sarah Johnson, chief executive of the on March 23. New cases are also ex-
Remote working has raised doubts sponsor body, said: “The impact of the pected to be heard at crown courts in
China endorsed an investigation World markets rallied after over the need for all those based on the health crisis on public finances and Bristol, Cardiff and Manchester.
into the origins of the coronavirus Moderna, the American parliamentary estate to be relocated parliament’s ways of working has made Barristers say that the government
but insisted it should be carried drugmaker, said that patients close by during the construction work. it even more essential that we review and senior judges have been too quick
out by the World Health vaccinated in its phase one trial Downing Street is also understood to both the strategy for relocating the two in restarting trials and that jurors would
Organisation, setting up a further received an immune response be concerned about embarking on a houses and the scope of the restoration have safety concerns.
clash with the United States over capable of fighting Covid-19. The multibillion-pound “vanity project” in of the palace.” Judge Richard Marks, QC, used a mi-
culpability for the pandemic. FTSE 100 rose 4.3 per cent and London amid a deep economic slump Under the 2018 plans, MPs and peers crophone to address 27 potential jurors
Britain co-sponsored the indices in the US and Europe were and Boris Johnson’s election pledges to were due to move out of the palace in the outside the court. He said that “it would
resolution that called for an up by at least 3 per cent. Oil prices “level up” other parts of the country. mid-2020s, with each moved into a dif- be remiss of me not to address your
international inquiry into the rose amid expectations that Much of the palace is in a dire state, ferent building near by. Offices would be concerns” and told them that social dis-
virus’s origins but did not specify demand for fuel will return as the with sewage leaks, vermin, water drip- found for those based in the palace. tancing measures had been put in place
who should carry it out. Page 10 world economy reopens. Page 33 ping on old wiring, asbestos dust, a However, insiders said the lockdown and the building had been cleaned.
decrepit heating system and non-exis- had shown that many services, includ- They were ushered to seats spaced two
‘Invest $150bn in drug’ Clubs to be inspected tent disabled access. Almost £400 mil- ing the library, tabling questions and IT metres apart in a section of the court
lion has been spent on maintenance support, did not need to be based on the normally reserved for barristers.
Governments should invest The Premier League will employ since 2016, according to the National estate to support MPs and peers. A doctor was the first defendant at
$150 billion in the development of inspection squads to make sure Audit Office, with an increasing backlog There are also fears that a sharp the Old Bailey since the lockdown.
a coronavirus vaccine to inoculate clubs are not cheating on the of repairs estimated at over £1 billion. downturn in the economy would Mohammad Tahir denies causing the
the world’s population, according amount of training by their players A sponsor body, based on the organi- require tax rises and spending cuts, death of a motorcyclist by careless driv-
to a Nobel prize-winning or breaching social distancing. sation that successfully delivered the making the restoration a low priority. ing in Chelsea three years ago.
economist. Michael Kremer, an Players will start training in small
economics professor at Harvard groups from today but will be continued from page 1
University, called on world leaders restricted to 75 minutes a day. The forms part of the next phase of the gov- quarantine, which would boost confi-
Hope for holidaymakers
to step up their investments and to league admitted that the planned ernment’s strategy to control corona- dence in aviation and travel”.
work together instead of date of June 12 for matches to virus. Yesterday the prime minister’s Mr Shapps indicated that the govern-
competing to be the first to resume behind closed doors may their supply chains and exports.” Hopes spokesman confirmed that the quaran- ment would ultimately move to this
produce a vaccine. Page 36 have to be delayed. Page 60 are growing, though, that the blanket tine plans would be reviewed every model but declined to say when it would
quarantine could be replaced by more three weeks “to ensure they are in line happen. “The final details of the quar-
targeted measures, possibly within with the latest scientific advice and that antine scheme will be released soon
weeks. The European Union has they remain effective and necessary”. and come in early next month,” he told
COMMENT 23 BUSINESS 33 SPORT 54 banned tourists from outside the bloc Mr Shapps provided further details, MPs. “We should indeed consider fur-
LEADING ARTICLES 27 REGISTER 49 CROSSWORD 60 until the middle of next month. including confirming that the meas- ther improvements, for example, things
WORLD 28 WEATHER 53 TV & RADIO TIMES2 Tui, the UK’s biggest tour operator, is ures would be introduced early next like air bridges, enabling people from
planning to operate holidays from month. Huw Merriman, chairman of other countries who have themselves
Please note, some sections of The Times are available only in the United Kingdom and Ireland
June 14, with bookings increasing in the Commons transport select com- achieved lower levels of coronavirus in-
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the times | Tuesday May 19 2020 2GM 3
News
Royals join virtual Chelsea Flower Show
BUCKINGHAM PALACE/PA
Valentine Low
In the cool, dank woodlands where it
thrives, there is no such thing as By
Royal Appointment. But if there were,
then lily-of-the-valley would have just
earned its royal warrant after the
Queen revealed it was one of her
favourite flowers.
It featured in her bouquet when she
married Prince Philip in 1947 and again
at her Coronation six years later.
The Queen disclosed her love for the
flower as she and other members of the
royal family were deprived of one of the
great fixtures of the royal calendar,
their annual appearance en masse at
the Chelsea Flower Show.
With the show cancelled because of
coronavirus, the Royal Horticultural
Society was reduced to putting on a
“virtual show”. The Queen, who almost
never misses an
appearance at
Chelsea, sent a
message of
support.
She was joined
by other members
of the family in re- Delphinium
vealing their best-
loved blooms. For Prince Charles the
Until recently it delphiniums at Highgrove
had always been held pride of place
said that her flow-
er of choice was
the primrose. She tthhe day of her Worshipful Company of Basketmakers
was also said to like DDiamond Jubilee, Favourites are all fine picks since 1991 and recently learnt to weave,
other wild flowers. VVictoria pressed the palace said.
However, those ssoome lily-of-the- The Duke of Gloucester is also a keen
close to the Queen, Lily-of- vvalley between the gardener, it seems. Buckingham Palace
it seems, have ppages of a book. fleeting — the flowers mollis, the Duchess of said of his daisies: “His Royal Highness
Bunny Guinness
always known of the-valley TThat book is now in aren’t around a long Cornwall’s choice, a enjoys digging them up from between
her fondness for tthhe possession of Comment time, much like lily- pest because it seeds the paving stones and transferring
Convallaria majalis, Carried in Elizabeth’s hher great-great- of-the-valley. I think everywhere and is them elsewhere to grow properly and
or Our Lady’s Tears wedding bouquet and ggranddaughter. I it’s quite difficult to fairly common, but it healthily — both with some difficulty
as it is also known. at her Coronation The Prince of love the Queen’s grow delphiniums looks stunning with and much care! The duke also gives the
Her Coronation WWales said his favourite flower, well, especially at rain on it and it is daisies as gifts to friends from time to
bouquet was made ffaavvoouurriittee was delphiniums, lily-of-the-valley. Highgrove. very naturalistic in a time.”
up of white flowers commpprriiss- photographed in his garden at It’s not something Of all the royal garden. It’s got charm, Princess Alexandra said her favour-
ing orchids and lily-of-the- Highgrove. He said: “For me, the that is so easy to family I’ve come into though it’s the total ite was the Golden Celebration rose,
valley from England, steph- magnificent, gloriously appa- grow, but it’s got such contact with, Charles opposite of a which “gives me great pleasure to look
anotis from Scotland, or- relled delphinium, with its impec- a simple charm. is the most passionate delphinium. at and has the most extraordinary and
chids from Wales, and carna- cable bearing and massed in When we did the gardener. He likes Maybe opposites unique scent”.
tions from Northern Ireland platoons, holds pride of book on Highgrove scented plants, such attract! In her message for the opening of the
and the Isle of Man. place in my botanical together, Prince as Populus Virtual Chelsea Flower Show, which in-
When the Queen visited affections.” Charles always said he balsamifera, which he Bunny Guinness is a cludes gardening advice and virtual
Chelsea four years ago In sharp contrast to loved delphiniums. has in his meadow. landscape architect sessions on the show’s website, the
Jekka McVicar, the herb her husband, the They’re big and Some people and joint author of Queen said: “I am sure that my grand-
expert, told her how lily-of- Duchess of Cornwall showy, and fairly consider Alchemilla Highgrove: A Garden mother, Queen Mary, who first attend-
the-valley was once used as chose something ed the Chelsea Flower Show in 1916,
poison. Ms McVicar said: much less spectacu- would be delighted that many people
“She said, ‘I’ve been given lar, but equally “This acid green fluffy-flowered plant is photograph she took of hellebores at today have an enthusiasm for horticul-
two bunches this week. loved by the dis- one of the best-ever foliage plants for her home, Gatcombe Park in Glou- ture, and that gardening remains a pop-
Perhaps they want me cerning gardener the garden and the vase,” she said. “A cestershire. ular pastime in the United Kingdom.”
dead.’ ” — Alchemilla mol- must for every gardener.” The Duchess of Gloucester went one The public are able to “visit” from
The Queen’s apprecia- lis, or lady’s mantle, The Earl and Countess of Wessex further: not only did she take her own today with different themes each day
tion of lily-of-the-valley as photographed in sent in a picture of azaleas taken by the photograph, she also made her own ranging from wildlife garden to health
is a royal tradition going the garden at her Wilt- countess at their Surrey home, Bagshot wicker wigwam for her sweet peas. She and well-being, perfect plants and
back to Queen Victoria. On shire home, Ray Mill. Park, while the Princess Royal sent a has been an honorary liveryman of the growing in small and indoor spaces.
Charles mobilises a new Land Army Lone toiler Titchmarsh
shrinks as garden grows
Valentine Low Ministers launched the Pick for Britain this year, we need an army of people to
campaign to attract students, furlough- help. Food does not happen by magic; it
The Prince of Wales has backed a strug- ed workers and the unemployed but it all begins with our remarkable farmers
gling government campaign to per- has been slow to secure recruits. and growers. If the last few weeks have David Sanderson Arts Correspondent the two had replied that they were
suade Britons to pick crops this year. Last month a work placement charity proved anything, it is that food is pre- “factoring into their considerations the
He said that “an army of people” was said that it was struggling to convert cious and it cannot be taken for granted. Alan Titchmarsh has revealed he has points I made”.
needed to avoid crops being wasted. expressions of interest into acceptan- “This is why that great movement of lost a stone in weight after being forced “When supermarkets were given
Urging people to help, Prince Charles ces of job offers. Concordia said that of the Second World War — the Land to tend his four-acre garden alone social-distancing guidelines, the same
said: “I do not doubt that the work will 50,000 people interested in fruit pick- Army — is being rediscovered in the during the lockdown. could easily have been done for garden
be unglamorous and, at times, chal- ing, 6,000 accepted an interview but newly created ‘Pick for Britain’ cam- The broadcaster, 71, said he had centres because it’s so much simpler to
lenging. But it is of the utmost import- more than 1,000 people rejected roles paign. “walked for miles doing the mowing”, apply the protocols outside,” he said in
ance and, at the height of this global offered to them. Only 150 had taken up With harvesting continuing until adding that the intimate involvement an interview with Radio Times.
pandemic, you will be making a vital offers of work. early autumn, he said people were with his Hampshire garden had bred in Titchmarsh said the policy to keep
contribution to the national effort.” In a video message for Pick for Brit- needed who would genuinely commit. him “a complete sense of contentment”. garden centres closed until mid-May
Lockdown measures mean that mi- ain recorded in the garden of his home “The phrase I have often heard is ‘pick- Titchmarsh said he would adjust his was “short-sighted and not thought
grant agricultural workers will not be in Birkhall, Aberdeenshire, Charles ers who are stickers’,” he said. working schedule in future because he through”, adding that there was the
able to come to the UK this season. said: “At this time of great uncertainty, Some farms want the government to had “so adored being among my “absurdity” of DIY stores being able to
Some 80,000 workers are needed to many of our routines and patterns of relax rules on minimum earnings, al- plants . . . I don’t want to relinquish that”. open their plant areas “while the very
harvest crops, of whom the majority life are being challenged. The food and lowing them to employ pickers who are He also revealed that he had lobbied people whose livelihood is exclusively
come from abroad. Without them, it is farming sector is no exception. If we are less productive than experienced east- Boris Johnson and Michael Gove to bound up in plants were not allowed to
feared that produce will be left to rot. to harvest British fruit and vegetables ern Europeans. allow garden centres to reopen. He said sell them”.
4 2GM Tuesday May 19 2020 | the times
NNeewwss Coronavirus
Hancock aims to test anyone
Chris Smyth Whitehall Editor Analysis
Oliver Wright Policy Editor The Thames has been
unusually calm during
F
People rushing to book a coronavirus rom today anyone who the lockdown, with
test after eligibility was extended to suspects they have passenger services and
anyone with symptoms were warned Covid-19 symptoms will tour boats suspended,
last night that priority would be given to be eligible to take a test leading to eye-catching
key workers. for the disease (Oliver reflections in the light
Matt Hancock, the health secretary, Wright and Tom Knowles write). of dawn and dusk
said yesterday that anyone over the age For now a diagnosis will trigger
of five with a cough, fever or loss of no intervention beyond advice to
sense of smell could now apply for a test self-isolate for seven days. But
on the NHS website as capacity rose. that is about to change. Within
Speaking in the Commons, Mr Han- weeks the government is
cock also revealed that more than preparing to introduce a
21,000 contact tracers had been re- test-and-trace system that
cruited to track people who had been at ministers and health officials
close quarters with known cases. hope will allow them to control
This is crucial to stop a resurgence of the disease while relaxing
cases as the lockdown is eased and Mr lockdown restrictions.
Hancock insisted that with this work- Under the system, anyone who
force the government “has capacity for develops symptoms can apply
the current level of new cases”. online for a test at one of the new
Internal Whitehall estimates show testing sites or have one sent
there are about 12,000 new cases a day, through the post.
but a national contact-tracing system is While waiting for the result
not due to be in place until the end of people will be asked to self-
the month, with regional trials likely. isolate. In cases of a positive
MPs have urged the government to result patients will be directed to
introduce more draconian quarantine a website that will take them
restrictions on those found to have through their movements over
Covid-19 in an attempt to slow the two weeks and ask them for
spread of the disease. contact details of anyone who
In a letter to Boris Johnson, Greg has been within two metres of
Clark, chairman of the Commons them for fifteen minutes or more.
science and technology committee, This is likely to be followed up
said that the UK should look to emulate by a phone call from one of the
South Korea, which has set up dedi- 21,000 contact tracers hired by
cated facilities to isolate infected people the government. They will
and contain their movement. confirm the details submitted
He said that despite being “intrusive and try to fill in any blanks.
and incurring cost” providing such About a third of contact
facilities in requisitioned hotels could tracers are doctors and nurses so
help to reduce the spread of the disease. they will also be able to provide
“Providing dedicated facilities may medical advice. If someone has
be worthwhile when set against the broken lockdown rules they will
more hidden but vastly greater cost of be asked to be candid and be
maintaining tighter restrictions on the reassured that the information
rest of the population for longer if they are giving is confidential.
infected individuals are less rigorously The contact tracers will then
isolated from society,” Mr Clark, a phone all the identified contacts
former business secretary, said. who will be urged to get tested.
Mr Hancock told MPs: “Anyone with This system will run in tandem
a new continuous cough, a high tem- with the tracing app, which will
perature or the loss or change of sense log any contacts who have the
of taste or smell can book a test by visit- app. If a user tells the app they
ing nhs.uk/coronavirus.” have Covid-19, recorded contacts
He said that the change in policy, will be alerted. App users will
coupled with a drive to increase daily still be asked to provide the
testing capacity to 200,000, meant “ev- tracers with details of their
er more people will have the confidence contacts so they can pick up
and certainty that comes with an accu- anyone without the app.
rate test result”. He cautioned that the
government would “continue to priori-
tise access to tests for NHS and social Serco, the outsourcing giant, who have
care patients, residents and staff”. been given a day’s training in which Quentin Letts seemed so uncrushable. He was the
Last night those trying to book a test questions to ask people who have tested ultimate Duracell bunny, the playful
online were told by the NHS website: positive and what to tell their contacts. figure who would keep banging his
“There is very high demand for tests at Mr Hancock defended outsourcing drum after the rest of us had ground
The Duracell bunny
the moment. People in hospital and the work, saying: “None of this testing to a halt. Yesterday the drumsticks
essential workers, including NHS and capability, not a single test, would be were still just about moving but they
social care staff, are getting priority. possible without the private sector.” were wielded with little joy. Matt
Even if you are successful in requesting NHS software developers are work- has lost his bounce looked all in.
a test, we cannot guarantee you will get ing on an updated version of its Covid- In March he and Boris Johnson
one. It depends on how many tests are 19 app — at present being tested on the caught coronavirus at the same
available each day in different parts of Isle of Wight — which could delay its time. Slender Mr Hancock was back
the country.” national introduction . in a week, raring to go. The prime
Symptoms that can prompt a test The app, a key part of contact tracing, the Commons. He was fluent and minister was taken to hospital and
Political Sketch
now include loss of sense of smell, will be updated to reflect Public Health alert. He did not waffle. He was almost lost to the nation.
known as anosmia, as health chiefs try England’s new symptoms guidance remembered to tilt a wing to MPs’ During Mr Johnson’s absence, Mr
to pick up more cases. alongside a new facility that will allow constituency interests and dealt Hancock helped to hold the fort.
Mr Hancock had previously prom- users to input the result of any tests. amicably with the Speaker. And yet I Then came his moment with the
ised to recruit 18,000 contact tracers by The algorithm that dictates who hope he will forgive me if I note a 100,000 daily tests. There was no
mid-May and told the Commons yes- should be notified is also being tweaked change in his parliamentary way it could be met, everyone
A
terday: “I can confirm that we have re- to try to make it more sophisticated as s a country we may, as delivery. Since he entered the House agreed. One way or another he did
cruited over 21,000 contact tracers in researchers gather evidence from the the health secretary in 2010 Mr Hancock has been a it. Hancock was unstoppable.
England. This includes 7,500 health- trial. Senior government officials were said, have “got through figure of rare bounce, sometimes He came to the dispatch box
care professionals who will provide our reluctant to put a date on a national the peak” of annoyingly so. Yesterday was the yesterday at 3.30pm, alone on the
call handlers with expert clinical ad- rollout in case the timetable slipped. coronavirus but what of first time that, now 41, he seemed front bench save for a duty whip at
vice. They will help manually trace the Mr Hancock said the government the minister himself? Is Matt older than his years. one end. In his opening spiel he
contacts of anyone who’s had a positive was in “the closing stages” of negotia- Hancock over the worst of it in Given the hours he must have reported that critical care
test and advise them on whether they tions with Roche to make antibody test- terms of work, distress and worked and the stress he has had to admissions were down by two thirds
need to isolate.” ing “widely available” after the Swiss relentless pressure? Yesterday he absorb, this should hardly be a from their peak. He spoke of
The bulk of the non-clinical contact company won approval for its test to faced an hour of questions from surprise. Yet Mr Hancock always anosmia, the loss of smell and taste
tracers are call handlers employed by show who has recovered from the virus.
the times | Tuesday May 19 2020 2GM 5
NNeewwss
over five who has symptoms
JEFF OVERS ‘Smell loss has little
effect on case tallies’
Chris Smyth Covid-19 symptoms
A delay in adding loss of sense of smell
to the list of coronavirus symptoms did 6 Persistent 6 Shortness of
not lead to cases being missed because cough breath
the problem was very rarely seen on its 6 Fever 6 Abdominal
own, officials insist. 6 Loss of sense pain
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, the of smell 6 Chest pain
deputy chief medical officer, defended 6 Fatigue 6 Headache
the government yesterday against sug- 6 Diarrhoea 6 Sore throat
gestions that it had taken too long to 6 Delirium 6 Muscle pain
recognise loss of smell as a key symp- 6 Hoarse voice Source: King’s College
tom, saying that the addition would London / WHO
have made a very small difference to
the number of cases picked up. Group (Nervtag) has considered anos-
Many European countries, the US mia since March 27 and Professor Van-
and the World Health Organisation Tam said: “This has been quite a diffi-
(WHO) have for weeks recognised cult piece of science because there’s a
anosmia as a coronavirus symptom. distinction between can anosmia occur
Britain updated its guidance yesterday with Covid-19 versus whether it occurs
and anyone who loses smell and taste is early enough to be a useful help in
told to self-isolate for seven days and detecting cases.”
those who live with them to isolate for Anywhere between 10 per cent and
fourteen days. 50 per cent of Covid patients report los-
Professor Tim Spector, of King’s Col- ing their sense of smell, which can take
lege London, who runs a coronavirus weeks to return. Smell and taste are so
symptom study app, had criticised the closely connected and people will be
government for not expanding recog- told to be alert to food losing its flavour.
nised symptoms beyond cough and Although he said that Nervtag had
fever. “We’re probably missing at the been looking at other symptoms re-
moment between 50 and 70,000 people ported by patients, Professor Van-Tam
who are infected,” he told the BBC. suggested that the group had conclud-
Professor Van-Tam insisted that ed that it would not help to add them to
these two main symptoms picked up the “very simple and easy-to-remem-
91 per cent of cases and adding anosmia ber symptom cluster we already have”.
would increase that only to 94 per cent. He said: “We’re looking for things
He argued that although “anosmia has that are not so common and so non-
been recognised for some time now as a specific that actually they would just
sole symptom of Covid-19”, the key cause more confusion. [Fatigue is] a
question was: “How often does anos- genuine symptom of Covid but it
mia occur on its own in the absence of doesn’t really serve a purpose in terms
other symptoms and the answer seems of helping us pick out cases.”
to be very rarely indeed.” Experts said that the change would
Pointing to Public Health England help to cut down on transmission of
data on more than 20,000 confirmed cases in those with mild or no other
cases, he said that anosmia was the only symptoms. Professor Carl Philpott, of
symptom in 0.44 per cent of them. “It Norwich Medical School, said that the
doesn’t always come as the first symp- addition was “extremely welcome,
tom and even if it does it is followed by albeit much later than other European
the cough, the fever and many of the counterparts and at least two weeks
other symptoms, so you don’t miss after the WHO added it to their list.
those cases.” This will hopefully now be another
The government’s New and Emerg- measure by which the pandemic can be
ing Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory contained.”
Outbreaks at four in ten care homes
that is now formally accepted as a New Forest W) who asked —
symptom of the virus. Loss of taste? hooray — about dentists. When
Has Covid-19 been around since could they again start to treat their
Depeche Mode? Mr Hancock also patients? “I want to keep my Francis Elliott Political Editor is causing uncertainty about how long into care homes fell compared with
spoke of how our diagnostics teeth!” roared Sir Desmond. people are capable of transmitting it. previous years in March and April.
industry has been “scaled up at Normally Mr Hancock would have Almost four in ten care homes in The government’s handling of care Matt Hancock, the health secretary,
breathtaking pace into a global come up with a crack about Sir England have now reported suspected homes is under growing scrutiny. Jon said that there had been no large-scale
champion”. Such boosterism would Des being a shining tusker. coronavirus cases, it emerged yester- Ashworth, the shadow health removal of hospital patients into care
usually be delivered with a lick of a Yesterday there was only a tiny day, as ministers faced questions over secretary, questioned why residents homes at the start of the crisis. The
Hancock smile, a whoosh of an glimmer of misty affection for the why residents and staff were still wait- and staff would not be able to access number of such moves had fallen over
elbow. Yesterday there was none of old boy, then a formulaic answer ing for routine testing. routine testing until June 6, three time and they had been carried out with
that. The skin under his eyes looked about dental safety being foremost. Data collected by Public Health weeks after testing had been opened to care. He added: “This crisis has shown
flat with fatigue. His voice had Philippa Whitford for the SNP England working with the Care Quality all those with coronavirus symptoms. that there are many lessons for reform
almost no energy. A couple of times professed displeasure that Commission showed that 5,889 care “Expanding testing to all who are in the social care sector, not least the
he looked close to tears. lockdown was being ended too homes had reported a suspected out- symptomatic is welcome but frankly much closer integrated working with
His shadow, Jonathan Ashworth, soon. Mr Hancock, saying he was break of symptomatic or confirmed many with symptoms would self-diag- the NHS.”
won admiration at the start of the “slightly surprised” given SNP coronavirus as of May 17. nose and isolate anyway. Meanwhile 6More than 20 care homes in the
crisis for refusing to play political involvement in official day-to-day That amounted to 38 per cent of care care home residents, care home staff northeast of England sent a legal warn-
games. Yesterday he tried a slightly responses, sounded wounded. Fed homes in England, the prime minister’s and NHS still aren’t routinely screened ing to their council over fears of the
different tone, probing about care up. It was almost an “Oh for official spokesman told journalists at a for Covid,” he said last night. sector failing. Care North East, which
homes. Mr Hancock commented heaven’s sake” moment. briefing yesterday. He added that 343 “Given we know how vulnerable care represents the homes, told North Ty-
softly on his “uncharacteristic digs” In Downing Street recently Mr homes had reported new suspected homes and hospitals are, routine neside council that if funding and
and Mr Ashworth laughed ruefully. Hancock reportedly shouted “Give cases in the past seven days. testing must take place as a matter of support were not provided within five
Both seemed to be going through me a break”. They should do so. An increase in testing of residents urgency in these settings.” days, the local care market would start
the motions. I suspect they have They should encourage him to and workers is exposing further cases, Hospitals were allowed to discharge to collapse. It accused the council of
more in common with one another take a few days off, get some sleep, but there has also been a rise in hospital patients to care homes without testing failing to provide enough support to
than with some party colleagues. and then return in full order to his admissions. In addition, care home res- them until April 15, a policy that many meet the costs of the pandemic. Jacqui
Up popped that magnificent jaw- brief. There would be no dishonour idents are testing positive for Covid-19 believe helped spread the disease Old, director of children’s and adult ser-
grinder Sir Desmond Swayne (C, in that. more than 30 days after showing first through the sector. However, ministers vices, said: “We are working hard to-
symptoms — 38 days in one case. This insist that the number of discharges gether to keep staff and residents safe.”
6 2GM Tuesday May 19 2020 | the times
NNeewwss Coronavirus
Teachers and councils fight
pressure to reopen schools
Rosemary Bennett, Neil Johnston
Charlotte Wace, Bruno Waterfield
A growing number of councils say that
they will defy government plans to re-
open primary schools in England on
June 1.
Bury has joined Liverpool and Har-
tlepool, which said that their schools
would not open. Six others that are
considering their position voiced deep
reservations over returning teachers to
work.
The National Education Union
(NEU), Britain’s largest teaching union,
was resolute against the resumption of
classes, instructing members to de-
mand strict social-distancing measures
and warning that it would be unsafe to
mark pupils’ workbooks.
The position was maintained despite
mounting evidence that children pose
less risk of passing on coronavirus. The
European Union reported yesterday
that reopening schools in 22 member
states had not increased the incidence
of the virus significantly among either
children, families or staff. A study in
Australia produced similar results. The children of key
Confirming Bury’s decision to keep workers in Worcester
schools closed, Tamoor Tariq, the may be joined by other
council’s lead member for children’s pupils on June 1. Left,
services, schools and families, said: “We Sarah Yates, a teaching
recognise the importance of schools assistant, preparing a
reopening. We also recognise the role of school in Huddersfield
getting children back to school in help-
ing to kick-start the economy. But this
needs to be done with the safety of ities, say they will reopen to children checklist, saying it will not be safe to go infection rate had not increased signifi- and research has shown that children
school communities at front and from the priority year groups. back until every answer is “yes”. cantly among children, families or staff there are suffering more from the ab-
centre.” The unions will meet Gavin William- Parents have been told that their after the reopening of schools in 22 sence of lessons than wealthier pupils.
Six councils have yet to decide on son, the education secretary, today. The children may not receive the same level member states. Blazenka Divjak, the Charities said safety was the priority
their position but have voiced con- NEU’s insistence that social distancing of home education when schools par- Croatian education minister, who but if children did not go back to school
cerns, including Newcastle, Sunder- is maintained, virtually impossible for tially reopen. Unions say that more chaired the EU video conference, said until later than those in other areas
land, Wigan, Rochdale and Wakefield. such young children, suggests that it staff will be needed in school, meaning that social distancing and hygiene local authorities must step up support.
Birmingham city council, Britain’s big- will not back down. that fewer teachers will be available to measures appeared to be working. Imran Hussain, of Action for Child-
gest local authority, said it would allow The NEU guide, which has been pro- oversee home learning. Paul White- “These schools have very highly ren, said he was concerned that vulner-
schools to reopen only when it was duced for its members and those of man, general secretary of the National guarded conditions, such as smaller able children were not being monitored
assured over safety and had received Unite, Unison and the GMB, which also Association of Head Teachers, urged groups than in normal classes, usually as they would be at school, and teachers
more information from ministers. operate in schools, refers to the June 1 ministers to publish clearer guidance groups of about 15, and very close co- were vital in spotting warning signs.
There is tension over primary date for wider primary school reopen- on how schools should balance their re- operation with health ministries and Oliver Dowden, the culture secre-
schools reopening in England for child- ing and says: “It seems extremely sources between teaching children in epidemiological services,” she said. tary, refused to rule out legal action
ren in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6. unlikely at present that circumstances the classroom and teaching online. Many of the councils considering de- against councils that kept schools shut.
Numerous multi-academy trusts, nationally will permit that.” It asks European education ministers were laying the reopening of schools are in Hugo Rifkind, page 25
which are independent of local author- members to go through a 20-page briefed yesterday that the coronavirus some of Britain’s most deprived areas Letters, page 26
Be honest about campus
in your inbox The national picture
Cases Deaths
Coronavirus Top 10 areas with most cases Total UK* 246,406 34,796
life, universities warned Latest available figures as England 144,127 31,010
update of 5.30pm, May 18 Scotland 14,594 2,103
Wales 12,404 1,207
Rosemary Bennett Education Editor sities had to change what was on offer N Ireland 4,401 476
after students had accepted a place, the
Daily new lab-confirmed UK cases
For a concise Universities must not lure new students regulator said students should be al-
rundown of the with misleading promises of normal lowed to “change their minds”. 3.4k3.2k3.4k3.5k3.5k 3.1k2.7k
campus life if their lectures will all be So far only Manchester University
developments online, a watchdog has warned. has revealed its plans, with lectures
Nicola Dandridge, chief executive of being online-only in the autumn term.
4. Glasgow
that matter, the Office for Students, said that appli- However, it said seminars and other and Clyde 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
cants must have “absolute clarity” on teaching would be face to face. 3,742 May
combined with what they would be getting before they The Office for Students is concerned
accepted their places for the autumn. that given the financial strain universi- 5. Lancashire Daily new UK deaths
expert analysis, 3,351
“What we don’t want is to see pro- ties are under, they will over-promise 627
sign up to receive mises that it’s all going to be back to what is on offer to get the maximum 494428 384468
usual and an on-campus experience number of students signed up to secure 2. Greater
our dedicated when it turns out that that’s not the their £9,250-a-head annual tuition fee. Manchester 170 160
case,” she said. Universities are facing large losses 9,170
daily coronavirus University buildings have been closed from having to cancel conferences, 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
6. Birmingham
newsletter. bexya tmhes Caonvdi da-s1s9e sosumtberneta mk wovitihn gte oanchlinineg. , sthuem pmanedr escmhioco, alss awnedll o atsh leors einvge nretns dt fureo tmo 3,303 May Source: Gov.UK
whMiles Dgiavnindgr idevgied emnacdee t oth eM cPosm omn etnhtes cloTshedin hgas llasr oe f lrikeesildye tnoc eg.et even worse 120,7.6 H1ertfordshire *Includes tesbtys ccoamrpramieretdnr coeiurastl
education select committee. from September with large numbers of 1 . L o ndon 26,487 Total inwclhuidche da rine nthoet
The Office for Students later said that overseas students, who pay more than 7. Hampshire 3,168 deaths country totals.
Deaths in the
ucannivtse rhsoitwie tsh esyh owuoludl di dbeea tlalyu gthetl lb ya Jpupnlie- theAir s pBorkiteisshw poemearsn, floikre Ulyn tivoe srtsaiyti easw UayK. , 9. Surrey 2,819 34,796 inccluodmemd usinnictey
Sign up for free: March 2
18, the Ucas deadline for accepting which represents vice-chancellors, said 8. Essex 3,084
thetimes.co.uk/coronavirus
places, and “certainly before” A-level universities were “already preparing for
grades come out on August 13. If univer- a range of scenarios”. 3. Kent 4,475
the times | Tuesday May 19 2020 2GM 7
NNeewwss
JACOB KING/P; OLI SCARFF/AFP/GETTY IMAGES Part of rail network
could be closed to
prevent congestion
Graeme Paton Transport Correspondent
Fariha Karim, Daniel Clark
Rail chiefs have warned commuters
that parts of the network could be shut
to prevent overcrowding after services
were increased for the first time since
the lockdown began.
Network Rail said that new protocols
had been put in place to close busy
stations and enforce social distancing,
preventing services being over-
whelmed.
The warning came after timetables
were increased on the main line rail
network and across the London Under-
ground yesterday. Companies started
operating between 70 and 80 per cent of
services compared with less than 50 per An antiviral disinfectant is being used
cent since late March. regularly to clean Tube carriages
The number of passengers using the
Tube was up by 18.5 per cent compared many people have not been out on the
with a week earlier, although main line roads for quite some time.”
trains were quiet. Despite the increase Passengers reported some crowded
in the timetable, the government has carriages on the London Underground,
urged people to stay away from the rail with routes from east London into the
network and use private cars, walking city centre particularly busy. Figures
and cycling to reach work. from Transport for London (TfL)
Britain’s roads appeared to be slightly showed that 96,111 passengers used the
busier yesterday than last week. Figures Tube during the morning peak, up by
from TomTom, the traffic data provid- 18.5 per cent on a week earlier.
er, showed that 14 out of 25 cities had TfL warned passengers to stay away
more congestion at 8am than the same from the busiest stations during the
time seven days earlier. rush hours. It published a list of 20 of
Traffic was the same in seven cities the most crowded stations, mainly
and had been cut in four. commuter hubs such as Stratford and
The biggest increase was in Hull, Clapham Junction. However, many
Grandparents “completely unrealistic” and separately if possible. Grandparents followed by Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent, main line stations remained largely
impossible to follow for those who are also told to use different Belfast and Edinburgh. empty yesterday, with passengers ap-
live with their children and bathrooms, beds and towels, and to Police urged motorists to drive care- pearing to heed warnings to stay away.
urged to isolate
grandchildren. At least 259,000 eat in their bedrooms with their own fully after the first death on London’s Sir Peter Hendy, the Network Rail
children live in the same households plates and cutlery. roads in 18 days. A motorcyclist who chairman, said that stations would be
as their grandparents, according to Gemma Burgess, acting director of was in a collision with a car at 6.30am in closed if too many passengers arrived at
George Greenwood, Charlie Parker the Office for National Statistics, the Cambridge Centre for Housing Kew, southwest London, was pro- once. He also urged passengers to wear
accounting for 3 per cent of families and Planning Research, said it would nounced dead at the scene. face coverings, although they are not
Hundreds of thousands of with children. be impossible for families with small Commander Kyle Gordon, of the compulsory.
grandparents could be at greater risk The Department of Health and homes, and that enforcement of Metropolitan Police, said: “Following 18 Speaking to Breakfast on BBC One he
of coronavirus infection when Social Care has asked those over 70 social distancing outside the home days without a death on our roads, this said: “We have processes to close
schools reopen within two weeks. to avoid spending time in shared should be the priority. “The morning a motorcyclist was fatally in- stations if they become too full. My rail-
Government guidelines urge older spaces with younger relatives and guidelines are completely alien to jured. As we see some easing of restric- way colleagues have rehearsed those
people to isolate from their families, kitchens, dining rooms and sitting the way in which multigenerational tions, please drive carefully in London.” processes on the national railway net-
but experts say the advice is areas should be ventilated and used families are used to living,” she said. Police forces nationwide are launch- work if that becomes necessary.”
ing a speed enforcement operation On how a two-metre social distance
amid fears of accidents as the lockdown would be enforced, he said: “Passengers
Oldest and youngest face Books will be is eased. are sensible. This is a national crisis of
Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, unprecedented proportions. We want
the national roads policing lead, said: people to stay apart if they humanly can
crisis in living standards quarantined “With the gradual move out of lock- and if they can’t, then a face covering is
down and with traffic volumes starting a sensible thing to do for the brief mo-
to increase, this national operation is an ments when you might be getting on or
important way of highlighting the dan- off a train or moving through a station.”
Gurpreet Narwan of England warned that millions of Andrew Ellson gers of speeding, particularly when so Thunderer, page 24
Economics Correspondent Britons will lose their jobs this year, Consumer Affairs Correspondent
taking the unemployment rate from 4
Britain is facing a “U-shaped” crisis in per cent to a 26-year high of 9 per cent. Browsing a bookshop is one of life’s
living standards with the youngest and The Resolution Foundation found greatest pleasures but the practice is
oldest in society taking the biggest hit that young people are the most likely to likely to be banned when they reopen.
to their incomes, according to a report. have lost work because of the lock- Britain’s biggest bookshop chain will
Although workers across all ages are down. About 20 per cent of 18 to 29- ask customers to “change their behav-
likely to be earning less than they did in year-olds have been made redundant iour” — titles they touch but do not buy
January, the Resolution Foundation or placed on furlough, as have 18 per will be placed in quarantine before
found that the burden was falling dis- cent of those aged 60 to 64. Only 15 per being returned to shelves.
proportionately on the two groups at cent of people aged 35 to 44 have lost James Daunt, the chief executive of
opposite ends of the age spectrum. work. The think tank’s report was based Waterstones, says his shops are “no
Its report showed that 35 per cent of on a survey of more than 6,000 adults. longer going to be a place to while away
workers aged 18 to 24 are taking home Maja Gustafsson, a researcher at the the afternoon”.
less than they did at the beginning of foundation, said: “While young people Customers who pick up books will be
the year, as are 30 per cent of those in are in the eye of the storm, they are not asked to place them in a trolley if they
their early 60s. This compares with just the only group who are experiencing do not buy them. These books will then
23 per cent of 35 to 49-year-olds. big income shocks. Britain is experienc- be wheeled away to be stored for three
Only 13 per cent of Britain’s youngest ing a U-shaped living standards crisis, days to reassure other customers that
workers have seen their earnings rise, a with workers in their early 60s also bad- there is no risk of infection.
figure that falls to 9 per cent for those ly affected. That is why the govern- This month, the government indicat-
aged over 60. They are not suffering ment’s strategy to support the recovery ed that non-essential retailers, such as
alone, however. Although 35 to 49- should combine targeted support to bookshops, will be allowed to re-open
year- olds are less likely to have suffered help young people into work, with more from the beginning of June provided
a drop in income, only 5 per cent have general stimulus to boost demand they meet Covid-19 safety and security
seen their pay packets grow. across the economy and help house- guidelines and that infection rates con-
In its most recent forecasts, the Bank holds of all ages.” tinue to decline. Some turnstiles tried to hammer home the social distancing message yesterday
8 2GM Tuesday May 19 2020 | the times
NNeewwss Coronavirus
Show us proof that
Johnson is following
science, MPs urge
Tom Whipple Science Editor Profile paper interview since being elected to
Britain’s most prestigious scientific
MPs have called on the government to society. “We’re fairly sure about how
O
open the process of scientific advice to ne of the consolations the planets work, but once you get into
public scrutiny, complaining that there of being president of new viruses you get extraordinary
is “no transparency” in what is guiding The Royal Society is amounts of uncertainty.”
ministers in dealing with the pandemic. that unprecedented All the choices made so far, he said,
The science and technology commit- situations are rare had been taken amid this uncertainty
tee said that without the minutes or a (Tom Whipple writes). and we were a long way yet from seeing
summary of the advice given to Boris When Sir Adrian Smith, 73, which country got it right. “People tend
Johnson “it will be difficult to corrobo- was elected this month, it was in to like certainty and they tend to like
rate the government’s assertion that it the middle of the pandemic and answers. The nature of politics perhaps
always follows the scientific advice”. he was been forced to conduct is to play down the uncertainties and
The cross-party group of MPs, his business from his home in make the judgments to appear to be de-
chaired by the Conservative Greg Camden. That, though, is cisive,” he said. “We don’t regularly run
Clark, recommended that ministers unlikely to top the experience experiments of locking everybody
publish a summary of the advice they of Sir Isaac Newton, a previous down so we don’t have huge amounts of
used, as well as a constantly updated president, who spent a year in the data and evidence about the impacts.
membership list of the scientific adviso- country to avoid the plague. And “Getting into the public conversation
ry group on emergencies (Sage). At he did not even have Zoom. that we really are uncertain about lots
present there is only a partial list Sir Adrian is aware that when of things, I think, is quite important.”
The MPs were heavily critical of a his tenure starts in the autumn, In a letter to the prime minister the
testing regime that they said lacked there will be “a post mortem”, in science committee said that a lack of
boldness, failed to increase capacity which the actions of scientists — transparency had already opened the
fast enough and left care homes ex- those he represents — will be government to accusations that it was
posed. “Capacity drove strategy, rather examined to possibly a greater hiding behind science. In particular, the
than strategy driving capacity,” they degree than ever before. MPs said they were concerned that
said. “The failure of Public Health When it happens, he wants to they had not seen the evidence that was
England to publish the evidence on make clear: advisers advise, they used to take decisions to cease commu-
which its testing policy was based is do not decide. He likes to quote nity testing at the beginning of March.
unacceptable for a decision that may Churchill: Scientists should be on “The absence of disclosure may indi-
have had such significant consequen- tap and not on top. Politicians cate that . . . no rigorous assessment
ces,” they added. must make the decisions. was in fact made by [Public Health Eng-
Mr Clark said that part of claiming to He was an unlikely choice to land] of other countries’ approach to
follow the science was behaving in a be in the running for president. testing. That would be of profound con-
scientific manner. “The government He did not have a Nobel prize cern since the necessity to consider the
should follow the best traditions of and was also a mathematician, approaches taken by others with expe-
science in being transparent about the always viewed as slightly separate rience of pandemics is obvious.”
evidence and advice on which it makes by “proper” scientists. But an Venki Ramakrishnan, president of
decisions, and by being willing to con- improbable CV in late 2019 the Royal Society, said that another vir-
tinually learn from evidence and expe- seems like an inspired one now. tue of transparency was that it encour-
rience and not being afraid to adjust its This is a year that has, from aged policy changes when evidence
approach in response,” he said. testing figures to R numbers, changed. This was inevitable when the
Their call came as Sir Adrian Smith, been about data and its science was uncertain, he said. “Minis-
president-elect of the Royal Society, intersection with policy. Sir ters need to make the best decisions rash and high
Mystery as virus
said that it was crucial for the govern- Adrian leads the Alan Turing they can now, but also be prepared to temperature whereas
ment to be seen to be open. Institute, a data science institute. change tack later, in light of new evi- Thea was “healthy
“Even if nothing terribly secretive He was previously director dence. Being able to do that requires an threatens one twin and happy”.
and terrible is going on, you simply feed general for knowledge and openness with the public,” he added. Leia was taken to
suspicion if you’re not transparent. innovation in the Department for “The public will feel misled if minis- while other is fine the Royal Gwent
Transparency and openness should be Business, Innovation and Skills, ters use ‘the science’ as a prop to create Hospital in Newport,
the default and we might not have got dealing with the financial crash. a false sense of security and certainty south Wales. Tests
that quite right,” Sir Adrian said. When he takes office it will be only to change tack later. It will lead to showed she had
D
He said that politicians and scientists at a time when he hopes a an erosion of public trust.” octors are coronavirus-related antibodies in her
needed to be clear about the divide modern malady that began in The committee made ten recommen- to test inflammatory blood and so had had
between advisers and decision-makers, that crash is, like the virus itself, dations, including systematically re- identical syndrome while the the coronavirus in the
but also that the process lacked the cer- in retreat. Britain, once, had had cording ethnicity data, building vaccine five- other was fine (Will past.
tainty that is sometimes implied by enough of experts. Not so today. capacity, learning from the testing and month-old Humphries writes). Mrs Godwin, 35,
ministerial claims to be following the “The re-establishment of experts tracing experiences of other nations twins to find out why Hannah Godwin said: “God knows
science. “We should really talk about is something that won’t go away,” and setting out an approach to dealing one suffered a life- spotted that her what could have
the uncertainty that hangs over science he says. with asymptomatic transmission. threatening daughter Leia had a happened if she
in general,” he said in his first news- Leading article, page 27
Weight surgery is a possible ‘quick fix’ Having a common cold
Kat Lay Health Correspondent National Institute for Health and Care in The Times, international surgeons Tom Whipple The research, published in the jour-
Excellence, aids weight loss within 12 warn that plans to restart bariatric sur- nal Cell, looked at what are known as
Carrying out more weight loss surgery weeks and can reverse type 2 diabetes, gery remain “up in the air”. Your immune system may already be T-cells. They are different from anti-
in the UK could be a “quick fix” to a Covid-19 risk factor. In a letter to the Both groups say obesity is largely primed to attack coronavirus, even if bodies: rather than bits of protein that
reduce the number of people severely prime minister, the society said: “Bari- driven by factors outside an individual’s the closest you came to getting the dis- latch on to the virus, they spot other
harmed by coronavirus, experts say. atric surgery is often viewed as a ‘quick- control and that recognition of it as a ease was a common cold. cells that have been infected.
Matt Hancock, the health secretary, fix’ solution . . . precisely what is needed disease would reduce stigma. Scientists have found cells that can Dan Davis, professor of immunology
told the Commons yesterday that the if we are to avoid needless suffering, The UK carries out about 6,000 fight the new coronavirus in the blood- at the University of Manchester, said:
government would bring forward plans ICU admission and death in patients bariatric procedures each year. France stream of people who have only been “When a cell is infected with a corona-
to tackle obesity, based on evidence with obesity who subsequently become performs ten times as many. infected with other coronaviruses that virus, the virus’s protein molecules are
that weight increases a person’s risk of infected with [coronavirus].” A spokeswoman for the NHS said: cause colds. The finding raises hope chopped up into very small pieces. And
hospitalisation or death from Covid-19. Mr Johnson is already preparing a “Covid means there are logistical con- that some may have a degree of protec- those small pieces are put up at the sur-
The British Obesity and Metabolic “more interventionist” drive against straints on restarting elective surgery.” tion already and could explain the ap- face of the cell. When T-cells see these
Surgery Society urged Boris Johnson to obesity. He is understood to be con- She added that bariatric surgery was parent randomness in how severely the molecules that have never been in the
back increased access to bariatric oper- vinced that he ended up in intensive care “no substitute for prevention”. virus strikes. Whether having caught a body before they multiply, then they go
ations. It said there was ample evidence with Covid-19 because of his weight. Letters, page 26 cold really is protective outside of a lab- and respond to those infected cells.”
that the treatment, approved by the In a separate letter published today Robert Crampton, Times2 oratory, however, is yet be proved. Some, known as killer T-cells, attack
the times | Tuesday May 19 2020 2GM 9
NNeewwss
HANNAH GODWIN/WALES NEWS SERVICE Oxford vaccine may
coronavirus in brief
PTSD risk for
still let cases spread
many victims
Rhys Blakely Science Correspondent professor who had a pivotal role in the Coronavirus could cause
development of early HIV/Aids treat- post-traumatic stress disorder and
Concerns have been raised about the ments, wrote on the Forbes website. other lasting mental health
coronavirus vaccine being developed Other experts agreed with Dr problems, new research has shown.
by Oxford University after scientists Haseltine that the animal tests had fail- Scientists from University
said that it did not provide “gold stan- ed to demonstrate “sterilising immuni- College London analysed results
dard” protection in tests on monkeys. ty”, which prevents the virus infecting a from more than 65 studies
The government announced host, and which he said was the “gold involving 3,500 people who were
£65.5 million in additional funding for standard”. It is different from immunity treated in hospital for the
the project on Sunday and said that that allows infection but with subse- coronaviruses Sars, Mers and
30 million doses could be made for the quent eradication of the virus. Covid-19 this year. They found
UK by September if it passed safety and This did not mean that the vaccine that almost one in three people
efficacy tests. Experts urged caution, would fail. Ian Jones, professor of virol- admitted to hospital with Sars or
however, after animal trials showed ogy at Reading University, said: “It’s Mers went on to develop PTSD,
there was a possibility that vaccinated true it is not the best result, although within three years. Rates of
people may still carry the virus. the animals were protected from dis- depression were about 15 per cent
The Oxford team released a study ease, which is the important point. one year or longer after the illness,
last week that suggested that its vaccine “This is not without precedent, as with a further 15 per cent also
had primed the immune systems of six one of the polio vaccines, the Salk vac- experiencing some symptoms of
rhesus macaque monkeys. None of the cine, used worldwide, also does not stop depression and anxiety without a
vaccinated animals developed pneu- infection but does stop poliomyelitis.” clinical diagnosis.
monia after they were exposed to the Poliomyelitis is the disease caused by More than 15 per cent
virus. By contrast, two of three unvacci- poliovirus. Professor Jones added: “It’s experienced chronic fatigue, mood
nated monkeys who were exposed dev- not a failure and has done what other swings, sleep disorder, or impaired
eloped pneumonia. vaccines of this type have been shown concentration and memory,
Animal tests never guarantee success to do.” according to an article on the
in humans but the Oxford researchers Jonathan Ball, professor of molecular study published in The Lancet. The
presented the findings as promising in a virology at Nottingham University, researchers found that worrying a
paper that was co-authored by said: “The fact that the vaccine prevent- lot about the illness was associated
American colleagues who had run the ed pneumonia in all, and symptoms in with worse mental health in the
monkey tests at a US government some, of the vaccinated animals is long run, and healthcare workers
laboratory. encouraging. We know that many vac- had worse long-term mental
Other experts have raised concerns, cines work because they prevent seri- health outcomes than others.
however, over the fact that the virus ous disease rather than preventing
was found in the noses of the vaccinat- virus infection. However, the amount Plasma treatment trial
ed monkeys. The breathing rate of of virus genome detected in the noses
three of the monkeys also quickened: a of the vaccinated and unvaccinated People who have recovered from
sign that they were infected. monkeys was the same and this is coronavirus have been urged to
“There was no difference in the concerning. donate their blood plasma. There
amount of viral RNA detected [in nasal “If this represents infectious virus have been 1,000 donations so far
secretions] in the vaccinated monkeys and a similar thing occurs in humans, to enable convalescent plasma
as compared to the unvaccinated then vaccinated people can still be treatment in a trial to determine
animals. Which is to say, all vaccinated infected and shed large amounts of whether it can help patients not
animals were infected,” William Hasel- virus, which could potentially spread to producing sufficient antibodies to
tine, a former Harvard Medical School others in the community.” fight the virus. More than ten
hospitals will take part in the trial,
First trials of jab in US with “many more” to follow as the
collection programme expands.
No showers for inmates
show immune response
Prisoners with Covid-19 symptoms
were locked up for up to two
weeks without being allowed to
hhaadn’t had the adding: “The Rhys Blakely an ability to scale in a manner that pro- shower, a report by Peter Clarke,
ttrreatment early.” consultant was very, vides global access should this vaccine the chief inspector of prisons, says.
Doctors have very honest with me The first Covid-19 vaccine to be tested be successful,” he said. Wandsworth prison in south
rreequested genetic and said, ‘If there’s a in people has shown signs of stimulat- The Moderna vaccine works by London made the decision “in
tteesting to find out rupture she’s not ing an immune response against the injecting a piece of genetic material, consultation with Public Health
wwhy Leia’s body going to survive.’ ” virus, the company behind it said. known as RNA, into a person. This pro- England owing to a lack of
rreeacted as it did. Leia was Moderna, which is based in the US, vides instructions for the person’s cells space for a protective isolation
TThhey will also take transferred to the said yesterday that eight healthy volun- to create a protein found on the virus. It unit”. The Ministry of Justice has
bbllood from Thea to specialist Noah’s Ark teers who each received two doses of is hoped that this will train the body to been asked to comment.
sseee if she has had Children’s Hospital for its experimental vaccine, starting in recognise and fend off the real patho-
CCoovid-19 and why Wales in Cardiff. She March, had made neutralising antibod- gen if it later becomes infected. RNA Fall in CO emissions
2
sshhe has not reacted is now no longer in ies. These bind to virus particles and are jabs are unproven, though. None has
iinn the same way. intensive care and her thought to be a key element of the yet been licensed for human use and Carbon dioxide emissions in
LLeeiiaa GGooddwwiinn,, aabboovvee lleefftt,, MMrs Godwin said mother has been body’s defences against the disease. some analysts have cautioned that London are 58 per cent lower than
developed a nasty rash Leia’s arteries had allowed to visit her The volunteers appeared to have immune responses may not last long. the average for the time of year, an
while her identical twin swollen to “life- and administer oral similar antibody levels to recovered Stephen Evans, of the London School analysis of direct emissions
sister, Thea, stayed well threatening size”, medication. Covid-19 patients and the trials showed of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: measured at the BT Tower shows.
no signs of serious side-effects. Shares “There are a number of good points The findings mirror a 60 per cent
in the company, which has yet to have that suggest optimism that this vaccine reduction in road traffic.
can help to fight Covid any drugs on the market, had surged by may work.” He emphasised, though, Atmospheric concentration of CO
2
25 per cent in New York yesterday that it was important not to overstate would not markedly change, Eiko
evening, valuing it at about $30 billion. the results. Nemitz, of the UK Centre for
When the antibodies were tested in Moderna said that a second testing Ecology and Hydrology and
the infected cells. Others, called helper the laboratory they were able to stop phase involving 600 people would Reading University, said.
T-cells, signal to other cells, which, for the virus from replicating. The update begin soon, after US regulators gave
instance, produce antibodies. As with was given a cautious welcome by other approval this month. A third phase, Adrenaline pens recall
antibodies, T-cells are made in response experts, who added that much more involving thousands of volunteers, is
to an infection, then remain afterwards. data and far larger trials were needed scheduled to start in July. If all goes well Adrenaline pens have been
The latest work involved looking at before it was known whether the vac- the vaccine could be available by Jan- recalled over fears that doses may
blood from recovered Covid-19 patients. cine was safe and effective. uary, Tal Zaks, the company’s chief not be delivered for people with
Scientists found that it contained T-cells “These are encouraging signs,” said medical officer, told CNN yesterday. severe allergies. The Medicines
that respond to the virus. This suggested Robin Shattock, of Imperial College Moderna is one of nine vaccine pro- and Healthcare products
that the immunity it confers may be rel- London, who is working on another jects backed by the Coalition for Epi- Regulatory Agency said Emerade
atively long-lived. They then looked at vaccine that uses the same kind of tech- demic Preparedness Innovations, a 500 microgram adrenaline
frozen blood from 2018 to see if T-cells nology as Moderna’s. Bigger trials dem- foundation to which the British govern- auto-injector pens should be
were present without Covid-19. “We saw onstrating that the vaccine actually ment has committed £250 million. It is returned and a different brand
in about half of people there was activity protects people from falling ill with the not clear when stocks could be released prescribed. If it was needed before
against Sars-CoV2,” Alessandro Sette, coronavirus would ultimately be re- to the UK should Moderna succeed and being replaced it should be pressed
from the La Jolla Institute for Immunol- quired, Professor Shattock added. British efforts fail. very firmly against the thigh.
ogy in California, said. “Efficacy data will be key, followed by Vaccine hope lifts markets, page 33
10 2GM Tuesday May 19 2020 | the times
NNeewwss Coronavirus
Xi supports
Some shoppers
in Rome took no
chances and many
faced temperature
checks at stores.
inquiry into Restrictions also
eased in Greece
the origins
of pandemic
Catherine Philp the German chancellor. The US was
Diplomatic Correspondent represented by Alex Azar, the health
secretary. President Trump declined to
China backed an investigation into the participate.
origins of the coronavirus yesterday Mr Xi said he would support a resolu-
but insisted that the World Health tion put forward by Australia and the EU
Organisation be in charge of it, setting calling for an international inquiry into
up a clash with the US over culpability the virus’s origins. “China supports a
in the pandemic. comprehensive evaluation of the global
President Xi gave his blessing to a response to the epidemic after the global
WHO inquiry in an address to the orga- epidemic is under control, to sum up ex-
nisation’s annual meeting held online, periences and remedy deficiencies,” Mr
kicking off a round of unprecedentedly Xi said. “This work needs a scientific and
high-level engagement in the usually professional attitude, and needs to be led
technocratic gathering. by the WHO; and the principles of ob-
He blew the trumpet for inter- jectivity and fairness need to be upheld.”
national co-operation and promised The resolution, which requires a two-
$2 billion towards pandemic aid for the thirds majority to pass, calls for “an ex-
developing world, seeking to exploit the amination of the zoonotic origins of the
gap in global leadership left by the coronavirus” but does not specify who
Trump administration after it pulled should carry it out. Britain has co-spon-
millions in funding from the WHO and sored the resolution along with other
accused it of “pro-China bias”. countries including Russia, Canada and
Mr Xi was followed by President the members of the African Union.
Macron of France and Angela Merkel, The US has been keen to force China
to accept explicit blame for the out-
break and it is unclear whether it will
World update
support the resolution without that
specific phrasing. Mr Azar said that the
4,870,182
Global cases US supported an “independent review
319,174 of every aspect of WHO’s response”
Global deaths and added: “We must be frank about
one of the primary reasons this out-
Most new cases
break spun out of control. There was a
1 US 16,537 failure by this organisation to obtain
2 Russia 8,926 the information that the world needed, Trump admits taking malaria Minister reveals hidden toll
3 India 4,642 and that failure cost many lives.”
4 Brazil 4,515 Mr Xi promised help for developing
countries fighting the virus, particular- drug daily to ward off virus russia
5 UK 2,711
ly in Africa, where China has huge re- Concerns that Russia may be covering
6 Peru 2,660
source and infrastructure investments. up its true death toll have been
7 Saudi Arabia 2,593 He said there would be $2 billion in aid fuelled by comments made by the
8 Iran 2,294 and tie-ups between Chinese medical David Charter, Henry Zeffman potential benefits as doctors cautioned regional health minister in Dagestan.
9 Chile 2,075 facilities and those in African cities. Washington that despite its established use to pre- Dzhamaludin Gadzhiibragimov told
10 Mexico 1,974 Pointedly, he said China would share vent and treat malaria and lupus it a blogger that 29 people had officially
103 China 7 *Reported new cases and subsidise any vaccine it developed Donald Trump revealed last night that could have side effects in rare cases. died of Covid-19 in the southern
as a “global public good”, a commitment he is taking a daily dose of hydroxychlo- “A lot of good things have come out region, but there had been 657 deaths
Countries reporting
most deaths Cases Deaths 1mD epaotphs/ MfunMr dTrer dTu rmuinpm ihtpiaa hstia vfsae il,la eud“nO tcoph emerdaa taki eot.anx pWayaerrp- rhoaqMsu prirn Toerm, uaom tmepd am floaarrdi eath ttehr eec aodtrimoscnelaonvstiu rtruhesa .atf theer aYabroeou u’tdta bktheine sg uh ryiptd,r rioesesxpdye, a acti lahololty wo f tm hgoea onfdyr o tphneitonlipgnlsee. fcrooPnmrter apscindteeeudnm tb Poyun ctiaoin,r oaa nddamisveiitratuessed p otahfttaieetn nt htse.
US 1,544,201 91,717 277 Speed”, to ensure the US is first to a vac- criticising Rick Bright, a government workers before you catch it,” Mr Trump situation in Dagestan, a mainly
UK 246,406 34,796 513 cine but has made no promises about its scientist who made a whistleblower said after a White House event for res- Muslim region of nearly three million
Italy 225,886 32,007 529 availability to the rest of the world. The complaint that he had been demoted taurant owners. “The frontline work- people, was “difficult” and ordered
France 179,927 28,239 433
initiative is funding 14 vaccine projects. after raising concerns about the presi- ers, many many are taking it. I happen officials to provide more assistance.
Spain 278,188 27,709 593
Brazil 245,595 16,370 77 Britain has two, from Oxford Univers- dent’s support for the drug. to be taking it. I’m taking it. Hydroxy- Russia has 290,678 cases, the most
Belgium 55,559 9,080 784 ity and Imperial College London. President Trump added that he was chloroquine. Right now. Couple of outside the US, and 2,722 deaths.
Germany 177,289 8,123 97 It is anticipated that the 193 member also taking zinc every day, which was weeks ago I started taking it.”
Iran 122,492 7,057 84 countries of the WHO will vote on an also recommended to him to ward off Mr Trump said he was taking it not france
Canada 78,017 5,839 155
investigation into the virus’s origins the virus. Mr Trump ordered 29 million because he had symptoms but because Police in Paris were told to stop using
Netherlands 44,141 5,694 332
Mexico 49,219 5,177 40 during an online session today. doses of hydroxychloroquine in March he had “heard a lot of good stories” drones to monitor social distancing
China 82,954 4,634 3 China came under heavy pressure to after a small study suggested that it about it and referred to a letter from a because it breaches privacy laws. The
Turkey 150,593 4,171 50 accept an inquiry after 116 nations lined could help to cure patients. Two later doctor in Westchester in New York Council of State agreed with a
Sweden 30,377 3,698 366 up behind the motion. Beijing has pre- studies found that it had no noticeable state. The doctor told him that he had complaint by the Human Rights
India 100,340 3,156 2 viously resisted any investigation into impact on those with Covid-19. not lost one out of 300 patients that he League and Quadrature du Net, a
Ecuador 33,582 2,799 159
the origins of the virus, first reported in One study, of military veteran had treated with hydroxychloroquine, digital advocacy group, that cameras
Peru 94,933 2,789 85
Russia 290,678 2,722 19 Wuhan at the end of December before patients in hospital with the virus, zinc and the antibiotic azithromycin. on drones enabled police to identify
Switzerland 30,597 1,886 218 spreading around the world and killing found higher death rates among those “This is a doctor, he doesn’t want people without legal authorisation.
Ireland 24,200 1,547 314 more than 315,000 people. taking hydroxychloroquine, research- anything, I don’t know him, never Police in the capital are said to have
Portugal 29,209 1,231 121 Mr Trump has repeatedly suggested ers said last month. More than 27 per heard of him, but he treats people . . . carried out 251 surveillance flights in
Indonesia 18,010 1,191 4
the virus originated in a laboratory in cent of patients treated with hydroxy- and he said out of hundreds of people the first month of lockdown.
Romania 17,036 1,120 58
Poland 18,885 936 25 Wuhan, and may have leaked acciden- chloroquine died, compared with 11.4 that he’s treated he hasn’t lost one. He brazil
Pakistan 42,125 903 4 tally. Genome information released by per cent of those not treated with it, The just wanted me to know about it, that’s
Philippines 12,718 831 8 Beijing points to it being naturally Washington Post reported. The US all, he wasn’t saying ‘Gee can I have din- Bruno Covas, the mayor of Sao Paulo,
Japan 16,285 744 6 occurring, undermining one narrative Food and Drug Administration warned ner with you Mr President?’ ” Mr said the city’s hospitals were on the
Egypt 12,764 645 6 that it is a bioweapon. Most scientists last month against taking it because it Trump said. “But I have received many brink of collapse as experts warned
Austria 16,269 629 70
link the outbreak to a market in Wuhan could cause heart rhythm problems. such letters . . . and it seems to have an that Brazil was on track to become
Colombia 15,574 574 11
Algeria 7,201 555 13 where wild animals were sold. Mr Trump was blamed for a run on impact. Maybe it does, maybe it the “world epicentre of coronavirus”.
Source: Worldometer, May 18, 11pm Rachel Sylvester, page 23 the drug when he first talked up its doesn’t.”