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Coronavirus live news: Beijing back into partial lockdown as new cluster emerges Coronavirus live news: Beijing back into partial lockdown as new cluster emerges
(32 minutes later)
Dr Anthony Fauci says gatherings are a ‘danger’; Australia’s chief medical officers warns against Black Lives Matter ralliesDr Anthony Fauci says gatherings are a ‘danger’; Australia’s chief medical officers warns against Black Lives Matter rallies
Paris police have ordered the closure of restaurants and shops which had recently reopened after the coronavirus lockdown in France because they are along the route of a march against police brutality and racism. Moving back to coronavirus news for now, Italian prime minister Giuseppe Conte has said he is “totally calm” after giving prosecutors a full account of how he handled the coronavirus pandemic that devastated Italy.
The march between the Place de la Republique in eastern Paris and the capital’s main opera house is expected to be the biggest of several demonstrations around France this weekend inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement in the US. He said he did not fear a judicial probe would be opened after the three hour session about his handling of the emergency on Friday.
“I explained everything to prosecutors. I am totally calm,” Conte told La Stampa newspaper.
“I detailed all the stages in these terrible days during which we fought an invisible enemy. I have nothing to fear.”
He said he believes he “acted based on science and conscience,” adding: “I have the serenity of one who always carried out each step with the scientific technical committee” offering advice.
“I am not expecting to receive a notice of an opening of a judicial investigation. I have never feared one,” he added.
The epidemic has killed more than 34,000 people in Italy, one of the hardest-hit countries in the world, mostly in the nation’s north.
Chief prosecutor Maria Cristina Rota and her team are investigating why a lockdown was not enforced earlier in the health emergency around the towns of Nembro and Alzano in the northern province of Bergamo. Experts have said many lives would have been saved has a quarantine been swiftly imposed.
Prosecutors have already met with senior officials in Lombardy, who say it was up to Rome to decide whether certain areas should be shut.
Conte has said that regions had full discretion to close certain areas where the virus had begun to flare in late February and early March before he introduced a nationwide quarantine on 10 March.
In Taiwan, hundreds of anti-racism protesters gathered in central Taipei on Saturday, with a group of indigenous Taiwanese drawing attention to discrimination against the island’s original inhabitants.
The rally, attended by more than 500 people, mostly foreigners, was peaceful with only a very light police presence, Reuters reported. Savungaz Valincinan, an ethnic Bunun from central Taiwan, detailed the difficult past of indigenous Taiwanese, who make up less than 3% of the island’s population, and called for broad opposition to any form of discrimination.
Although indigenous Taiwanese “might not face as direct threats to our lives or fear like black Americans face in the US”, many in Taiwanese society discriminate against them. For example, by refusing to rent accommodation to indigenous people, said Savungaz, from the Indigenous Youth Front group.
Paris police have ordered the closure of restaurants and shops, which had recently reopened after the coronavirus lockdown in France because they are along the route of a march against police brutality and racism.
The march between the Place de la République in eastern Paris and the capital’s main opera house is expected to be the biggest of several demonstrations around France this weekend inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement in the US.
The Paris police chief ordered sidewalks along the march route to be cleared of anything that could be used against officers. Any gatherings of more than 10 people remain banned in France because of virus containment measures.The Paris police chief ordered sidewalks along the march route to be cleared of anything that could be used against officers. Any gatherings of more than 10 people remain banned in France because of virus containment measures.
The Paris march was organized by supporters of Adama Traore – a French black man who died in police custody in 2016 in circumstances that remain unclear despite four years of autopsies – with crowds expected to demand justice for him and all victims of police brutality. The Paris march was organisd by supporters of Adama Traoré– a French black man who died in police custody in 2016 in circumstances that remain unclear – with crowds expected to demand justice for him and all victims of police brutality.
Protests are also expected Saturday in Marseille, Lyon and other French cities, with the government under growing pressure to address long-running accusations of excessive violence by police, particularly against minorities.Protests are also expected Saturday in Marseille, Lyon and other French cities, with the government under growing pressure to address long-running accusations of excessive violence by police, particularly against minorities.
Researchers have documented racial profiling by French police, and investigations were opened recently into racist comments in private Facebook and WhatsApp groups for police officers.Researchers have documented racial profiling by French police, and investigations were opened recently into racist comments in private Facebook and WhatsApp groups for police officers.
The interior minister promised this week to stamp out racism and announced a ban on police chokeholds during arrests, however police are now to start experimenting with expanding the use of stun guns.The interior minister promised this week to stamp out racism and announced a ban on police chokeholds during arrests, however police are now to start experimenting with expanding the use of stun guns.
The Dalai Lama has said his thoughts are with those suffering in the coronavirus pandemic as he implored humankind to develop “a sense of oneness”.The Dalai Lama has said his thoughts are with those suffering in the coronavirus pandemic as he implored humankind to develop “a sense of oneness”.
The leader of Tibetan Buddhism, 84, told the BBC that despite widespread fears over coronavirus, climate change, and other social and environmental issues, there has been much to inspire and celebrate.The leader of Tibetan Buddhism, 84, told the BBC that despite widespread fears over coronavirus, climate change, and other social and environmental issues, there has been much to inspire and celebrate.
The spiritual leader of Tibet said it was pointless for people to consider themselves too old and that while young people had fresh minds which could contribute to a better world – along with greater physical ability – they are “too much excited”.The spiritual leader of Tibet said it was pointless for people to consider themselves too old and that while young people had fresh minds which could contribute to a better world – along with greater physical ability – they are “too much excited”.
He said that this sense of oneness could be one of the positive things to come out of the coronavirus crisis, which the world reacted to relatively quickly – as opposed to the climate crisis.He said that this sense of oneness could be one of the positive things to come out of the coronavirus crisis, which the world reacted to relatively quickly – as opposed to the climate crisis.
The Dalai Lama added that developing peace of mind was imperative and people across the world should place a greater focus on doing so, speaking ahead of the release of his first album Inner World, next month – a selection of teachings and mantras set to music.The Dalai Lama added that developing peace of mind was imperative and people across the world should place a greater focus on doing so, speaking ahead of the release of his first album Inner World, next month – a selection of teachings and mantras set to music.
Malaysia has reported 43 new coronavirus cases, raising the total to 8,445 infections.Malaysia has reported 43 new coronavirus cases, raising the total to 8,445 infections.
The health ministry also reported one new death, taking total fatalities from the outbreak in the country to 120.The health ministry also reported one new death, taking total fatalities from the outbreak in the country to 120.
Elsewhere in Asia, Indonesia has reported 1,014 new cases and 43 new deaths.Elsewhere in Asia, Indonesia has reported 1,014 new cases and 43 new deaths.
Dozens of people have tested positive for coronavirus in Beijing as parts of the city are locked down and a district in the city put itself on a “wartime” footing after the emergence of a new cluster linked to a wholesale food market.Dozens of people have tested positive for coronavirus in Beijing as parts of the city are locked down and a district in the city put itself on a “wartime” footing after the emergence of a new cluster linked to a wholesale food market.
People were ordered to stay at home at 11 residential estates in south Beijing’s Fengtai district and the nearby Xinfadi market was closed as authorities raced to contain the outbreak (see 5.13am) that has raised fears of a resurgence in local transmission as hundreds of troops were deployed to the area.People were ordered to stay at home at 11 residential estates in south Beijing’s Fengtai district and the nearby Xinfadi market was closed as authorities raced to contain the outbreak (see 5.13am) that has raised fears of a resurgence in local transmission as hundreds of troops were deployed to the area.
A number of the new symptomatic cases were linked to the meat and vegetable market, China’s National Health Commission said, with another 45 asymptomatic cases detected after mass testing of at least 500 people at the market on Friday, according to officials who said those carrying the virus have been placed under medical observation.A number of the new symptomatic cases were linked to the meat and vegetable market, China’s National Health Commission said, with another 45 asymptomatic cases detected after mass testing of at least 500 people at the market on Friday, according to officials who said those carrying the virus have been placed under medical observation.
Another worker tested positive at a farmers’ market in the city’s north-western district of Haidian. They were a close contact of one of the confirmed cases linked to Xinfadi, AFP reported.Another worker tested positive at a farmers’ market in the city’s north-western district of Haidian. They were a close contact of one of the confirmed cases linked to Xinfadi, AFP reported.
Beijing’s first Covid-19 case in two months, announced on Thursday, had visited Xinfadi market last week and had no recent travel history outside the city.Beijing’s first Covid-19 case in two months, announced on Thursday, had visited Xinfadi market last week and had no recent travel history outside the city.
China’s domestic outbreak had been brought largely under control through strict lockdowns. These measures had mostly been lifted as the infection rate dropped, and the majority of cases reported in recent months were citizens living abroad who were tested as they returned home during the pandemic.China’s domestic outbreak had been brought largely under control through strict lockdowns. These measures had mostly been lifted as the infection rate dropped, and the majority of cases reported in recent months were citizens living abroad who were tested as they returned home during the pandemic.
The chairman of the Xinfadi market told state-run Beijing News that the virus was detected on chopping boards used to handle imported salmon, with city officials ordering safety inspections focusing on fresh and frozen meat, poultry and fish in supermarkets, warehouses and catering services.The chairman of the Xinfadi market told state-run Beijing News that the virus was detected on chopping boards used to handle imported salmon, with city officials ordering safety inspections focusing on fresh and frozen meat, poultry and fish in supermarkets, warehouses and catering services.
Major supermarket chains including Wumart and Carrefour reportedly removed all stocks of salmon overnight in the capital, while some Beijing restaurants were not serving any salmon on Saturday.Major supermarket chains including Wumart and Carrefour reportedly removed all stocks of salmon overnight in the capital, while some Beijing restaurants were not serving any salmon on Saturday.
Spain’s daily coronavirus death toll figures have been on hold for almost a week, causing uncertainty about the state of the epidemic that has claimed more than 27,000 lives in the country.Spain’s daily coronavirus death toll figures have been on hold for almost a week, causing uncertainty about the state of the epidemic that has claimed more than 27,000 lives in the country.
The health ministry’s emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon, who for months has given a daily briefing on the pandemic’s evolution, has acknowledged the “astonishment” and “confusion” generated by the figures.The health ministry’s emergencies coordinator Fernando Simon, who for months has given a daily briefing on the pandemic’s evolution, has acknowledged the “astonishment” and “confusion” generated by the figures.
On 25 May, the ministry changed its method of collecting data on confirmed cases and fatalities, initially giving a daily death toll of between 50 and 100, AFP reports.On 25 May, the ministry changed its method of collecting data on confirmed cases and fatalities, initially giving a daily death toll of between 50 and 100, AFP reports.
But the figure then fell to fewer than five per day and on some days there were no deaths at all.But the figure then fell to fewer than five per day and on some days there were no deaths at all.
The prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, told parliament there had been “no deaths” for several days, prompting a backlash from rightwing opposition figures who have since accused him of hiding the real number of fatalities.The prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, told parliament there had been “no deaths” for several days, prompting a backlash from rightwing opposition figures who have since accused him of hiding the real number of fatalities.
Experts have said the overall number of deaths had remained static as a result of discrepancies arising from alleged delays in submissions of regional data.Experts have said the overall number of deaths had remained static as a result of discrepancies arising from alleged delays in submissions of regional data.
Since 7 June, the number of dead has remained at 27,136 while the regional authorities “review the information on deaths ... [until] they can give a precise death date which will give a clearer sequence,” according to Simon.Since 7 June, the number of dead has remained at 27,136 while the regional authorities “review the information on deaths ... [until] they can give a precise death date which will give a clearer sequence,” according to Simon.
But some regions have insisted they have submitted all the required data. Andalusia’s health minister, Jesus Aguirre, recently criticised the central government’s “total lack of respect for the dead” in publishing lower figures than those said to have been submitted by the southern region.But some regions have insisted they have submitted all the required data. Andalusia’s health minister, Jesus Aguirre, recently criticised the central government’s “total lack of respect for the dead” in publishing lower figures than those said to have been submitted by the southern region.
The number of confirmed coronavirus infections has passed 24,000 in Afghanistan as a key testing laboratory paused work due to lack of kits as violence rages across the country.The number of confirmed coronavirus infections has passed 24,000 in Afghanistan as a key testing laboratory paused work due to lack of kits as violence rages across the country.
The health ministry has detected 556 new cases from 1,065 tests in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 24,102. At least five patients also died overnight, including three in Kabul, meaning the country’s Covid-19 death toll now stands at 451. There have been 4,201 recoveries. The ministry has so far tested 54,770 patients.The health ministry has detected 556 new cases from 1,065 tests in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 24,102. At least five patients also died overnight, including three in Kabul, meaning the country’s Covid-19 death toll now stands at 451. There have been 4,201 recoveries. The ministry has so far tested 54,770 patients.
Local officials in Kabul have warned that the actual number of infections in the capital is significantly higher than what official figures show.Local officials in Kabul have warned that the actual number of infections in the capital is significantly higher than what official figures show.
The laboratory which has halted work is located in the western province of Herat, where a number of other patients died overnight, which borders Iran – previously the centre of the virus.The laboratory which has halted work is located in the western province of Herat, where a number of other patients died overnight, which borders Iran – previously the centre of the virus.
The first case of the virus was reported in the province after thousands of Afghan migrants returned from the neighbouring country in February and March, fanning out across the country without being tested or quarantined.The first case of the virus was reported in the province after thousands of Afghan migrants returned from the neighbouring country in February and March, fanning out across the country without being tested or quarantined.
Testing capacity remains low in Afghanistan and experts warn that the actual number of infections is much higher. But, according to a new official plan, testing capacity will be increased in the country while clinics with no testing capacity are to be instructed to announce new patients through their symptoms.Testing capacity remains low in Afghanistan and experts warn that the actual number of infections is much higher. But, according to a new official plan, testing capacity will be increased in the country while clinics with no testing capacity are to be instructed to announce new patients through their symptoms.
Ahmad Jawad Osmani, the new acting health minister, has warned that a large number of the country’s population is infected with Covid-19.Ahmad Jawad Osmani, the new acting health minister, has warned that a large number of the country’s population is infected with Covid-19.
Omani called his five-part plan to fight against the virus “historic” and said “only a small part of health sector was to fight with coronavirus until today, but from now, all parts of the sector will get coordinated to fight against the virus.”Omani called his five-part plan to fight against the virus “historic” and said “only a small part of health sector was to fight with coronavirus until today, but from now, all parts of the sector will get coordinated to fight against the virus.”
Meanwhile, violence continues across the country, with two separate attacks killing at least 18 people amid a wave of violence across the country, local officials have said.Meanwhile, violence continues across the country, with two separate attacks killing at least 18 people amid a wave of violence across the country, local officials have said.
A local police chief in western Ghor, Fakhrudin, said Taliban insurgents stormed a police checkpoint late Friday night and killed 10 police officers.A local police chief in western Ghor, Fakhrudin, said Taliban insurgents stormed a police checkpoint late Friday night and killed 10 police officers.
According to the country’s national security council, 89 civilians were killed in Taliban attacks during last two weeks.According to the country’s national security council, 89 civilians were killed in Taliban attacks during last two weeks.
“While the government has continued to advance the cause of peace, the Taliban continued their campaign of violence against the Afghan people during Eid and the weeks after that. In the last two weeks, they killed 89 civilians and wounded 150 across 29 provinces” said Javid Faisal, spokesman for the office of national security council.“While the government has continued to advance the cause of peace, the Taliban continued their campaign of violence against the Afghan people during Eid and the weeks after that. In the last two weeks, they killed 89 civilians and wounded 150 across 29 provinces” said Javid Faisal, spokesman for the office of national security council.
The Taliban has rejected the numbers released by the government today about civilian casualties in the last two weeks.The Taliban has rejected the numbers released by the government today about civilian casualties in the last two weeks.
Police in Nepal have arrested 10 people, including seven foreigners, as demonstrations against the government’s handling of the coronavirus crisis continued with hundreds of protesters gathering in the capital city, Kathmandu, officials said.Police in Nepal have arrested 10 people, including seven foreigners, as demonstrations against the government’s handling of the coronavirus crisis continued with hundreds of protesters gathering in the capital city, Kathmandu, officials said.
The Himalayan nation imposed a complete lockdown in March after reporting its second confirmed coronavirus case. But the number of infections has since increased to 5,062, with 16 deaths, and the government has come under fire for not doing enough to contain the outbreak.The Himalayan nation imposed a complete lockdown in March after reporting its second confirmed coronavirus case. But the number of infections has since increased to 5,062, with 16 deaths, and the government has come under fire for not doing enough to contain the outbreak.
Police officials said an estimated 1,000 people had gathered on a major thoroughfare in Kathmandu for the third day, where the seven foreign nationals were arrested.Police officials said an estimated 1,000 people had gathered on a major thoroughfare in Kathmandu for the third day, where the seven foreign nationals were arrested.
“The foreigners were arrested for interfering in Nepal’s internal affairs,” police official Basant Lama said.“The foreigners were arrested for interfering in Nepal’s internal affairs,” police official Basant Lama said.
Earlier this week, police used baton charges, water cannonand teargas to break up protests near the prime minister’s residence.Earlier this week, police used baton charges, water cannonand teargas to break up protests near the prime minister’s residence.
Protesters are demanding better quarantine facilities, more tests and transparency in the purchase of medical supplies to fight the crisis.Protesters are demanding better quarantine facilities, more tests and transparency in the purchase of medical supplies to fight the crisis.
“Quarantine facilities lack water, sanitation and safety,” protester Ramesh Pradhan said. “They are becoming the breeding centres for the coronavirus. This must be improved.”“Quarantine facilities lack water, sanitation and safety,” protester Ramesh Pradhan said. “They are becoming the breeding centres for the coronavirus. This must be improved.”
Deputy prime minister, Ishwor Pokhrel, who is leading the country’s coronavirus response, said in a statement: “The government is committed to increase tests, boost medical services and improve the quarantine facilities.”Deputy prime minister, Ishwor Pokhrel, who is leading the country’s coronavirus response, said in a statement: “The government is committed to increase tests, boost medical services and improve the quarantine facilities.”
India has reported its biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, adding 11,458 confirmed infections and taking its total count to more than 300,000, according to official data.India has reported its biggest single-day jump in coronavirus cases, adding 11,458 confirmed infections and taking its total count to more than 300,000, according to official data.
Cases in India, which has the fourth-most confirmed cases in the world, are steadily increasing despite a nationwide lockdown that began in late March and has since been loosened.Cases in India, which has the fourth-most confirmed cases in the world, are steadily increasing despite a nationwide lockdown that began in late March and has since been loosened.
Confirmed cases in the worst-hit western state of Maharashtra moved past the 100,000 mark, while 2,000 new cases were confirmed in New Delhi, where the health system has been under particular strain.Confirmed cases in the worst-hit western state of Maharashtra moved past the 100,000 mark, while 2,000 new cases were confirmed in New Delhi, where the health system has been under particular strain.
Despite the rising case load, the recovery rate of patients was improving, with more than 147,000 people having recovered, the federal government said on Friday. India has 145,779 active cases, and has recorded 8,884 deaths.Despite the rising case load, the recovery rate of patients was improving, with more than 147,000 people having recovered, the federal government said on Friday. India has 145,779 active cases, and has recorded 8,884 deaths.
Russia has reported 8,706 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of people who have been infected by the vi to 520,129.Russia has reported 8,706 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of people who have been infected by the vi to 520,129.
Authorities said 114 people had died of the virus in the last 24 hours, raising the official national death toll to 6,829. It comes after 8,987 new cases were announced on Friday.Authorities said 114 people had died of the virus in the last 24 hours, raising the official national death toll to 6,829. It comes after 8,987 new cases were announced on Friday.
A spike in deaths in refugee camps in Darfur, western Sudan, has sparked fears about coronavirus’s invisible spread as the elderly fall sick and die at extremely concerning rates, officials have said.A spike in deaths in refugee camps in Darfur, western Sudan, has sparked fears about coronavirus’s invisible spread as the elderly fall sick and die at extremely concerning rates, officials have said.
Nationwide, Sudan has reported 6,879 coronavirus infections and 433 deaths, according to the health ministry. Of those, 193 cases and 54 fatalities have been confirmed across Darfur, a figure experts believe is a significant lower than the true figure.Nationwide, Sudan has reported 6,879 coronavirus infections and 433 deaths, according to the health ministry. Of those, 193 cases and 54 fatalities have been confirmed across Darfur, a figure experts believe is a significant lower than the true figure.
Doctors in the region’s few functioning hospitals report an influx of patients with symptoms like a lost sense of taste, breathing troubles and fevers, the Associated Press reported. The official causes of their deaths remain unknown.Doctors in the region’s few functioning hospitals report an influx of patients with symptoms like a lost sense of taste, breathing troubles and fevers, the Associated Press reported. The official causes of their deaths remain unknown.
“People in the camps are suffocating, they can’t breathe,” said Mohamed Hassan Adam, director of Abushouk displacement camp in North Darfur.“People in the camps are suffocating, they can’t breathe,” said Mohamed Hassan Adam, director of Abushouk displacement camp in North Darfur.
Just a corner of the camp saw 64 unexplained deaths in one month, he said. His four neighbours, all in their sixties, grew feeble and died one by one. “They get exhausted then they die. There is no way to tell what happened,” he said.Just a corner of the camp saw 64 unexplained deaths in one month, he said. His four neighbours, all in their sixties, grew feeble and died one by one. “They get exhausted then they die. There is no way to tell what happened,” he said.
Dr Abdullah Adam, a radiology doctor, said he knew of 47 people who died the past month after showing coronavirus symptoms in villages around Kabkabiya, near El-Fasher.Dr Abdullah Adam, a radiology doctor, said he knew of 47 people who died the past month after showing coronavirus symptoms in villages around Kabkabiya, near El-Fasher.
We’re losing a whole generation, said Gamal Abdulkarim Abdullah, the director of Zam Zam camp, adding he had documented the deaths of 70 people over the past week.We’re losing a whole generation, said Gamal Abdulkarim Abdullah, the director of Zam Zam camp, adding he had documented the deaths of 70 people over the past week.
When El Fasher, in north Darfur, saw a spike in over 200 mysterious fatalities in just two weeks, officials launched an investigation and around 50 fatalities were attributed to Covid-19, but this was believed likely an undercount.When El Fasher, in north Darfur, saw a spike in over 200 mysterious fatalities in just two weeks, officials launched an investigation and around 50 fatalities were attributed to Covid-19, but this was believed likely an undercount.
Doctors in West and Central Darfur provinces also reported an unusual increase in deaths.Doctors in West and Central Darfur provinces also reported an unusual increase in deaths.
Some camps in the north saw 10 to 15 people a day dying the past week, compared to the normal rate of 5 to 10 a month, said Adam Regal, a spokesman for a local organisation that runs some camps.Some camps in the north saw 10 to 15 people a day dying the past week, compared to the normal rate of 5 to 10 a month, said Adam Regal, a spokesman for a local organisation that runs some camps.
Authorities are scrambling to curb the spread of contagion amid a fragile democratic transition after protests last year toppled longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. There are limited medical facilities in the region where years of conflict have left some 1.6 million people in refugee camps.Authorities are scrambling to curb the spread of contagion amid a fragile democratic transition after protests last year toppled longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir. There are limited medical facilities in the region where years of conflict have left some 1.6 million people in refugee camps.
The sharp mortality increase in Darfur is mostly linked to Covid-19, although not purely, said Dr Babikir El Magboul, the director of the health ministry’s emergency and epidemiology department.The sharp mortality increase in Darfur is mostly linked to Covid-19, although not purely, said Dr Babikir El Magboul, the director of the health ministry’s emergency and epidemiology department.
Amidst the pandemic, people with other illnesses are struggling to find treatment, while local authorities have clamped down on reporting.Amidst the pandemic, people with other illnesses are struggling to find treatment, while local authorities have clamped down on reporting.
After two female journalists published an article about the high mortality rate in El Fasher and the lack of protective equipment for doctors, they were promptly harassed and threatened with arrest by a military officer, according to the Darfur Journalist Association.After two female journalists published an article about the high mortality rate in El Fasher and the lack of protective equipment for doctors, they were promptly harassed and threatened with arrest by a military officer, according to the Darfur Journalist Association.
Hello everyone,Hello everyone,
I’ll be bringing you all the main developments over the upcoming hours. If you would like to get in touch you can message me on Twitter or on mattha.busby.freelance@guardian.co.ukI’ll be bringing you all the main developments over the upcoming hours. If you would like to get in touch you can message me on Twitter or on mattha.busby.freelance@guardian.co.uk
A bereaved relative whose uncle died in the Grenfell Tower fire has drawn parallels between living through the coronavirus pandemic and the aftermath of the blaze in the UK ahead of the third anniversary of the disaster.A bereaved relative whose uncle died in the Grenfell Tower fire has drawn parallels between living through the coronavirus pandemic and the aftermath of the blaze in the UK ahead of the third anniversary of the disaster.
Karim Mussilhy, whose uncle Hesham Rahman, lived on the top floor of the tower in west London, told of how the pandemic has been “really tough” for many of the bereaved, and survivors, of the inferno which killed 72 people.Karim Mussilhy, whose uncle Hesham Rahman, lived on the top floor of the tower in west London, told of how the pandemic has been “really tough” for many of the bereaved, and survivors, of the inferno which killed 72 people.
Ahead of the third anniversary of the fire on Sunday, the vice chairman of the Grenfell United group told the PA news agency:Ahead of the third anniversary of the fire on Sunday, the vice chairman of the Grenfell United group told the PA news agency:
Mussilhy also drew parallels between the UK government’s response to Covid-19 and the aftermath of Grenfell.Mussilhy also drew parallels between the UK government’s response to Covid-19 and the aftermath of Grenfell.
In tribute to each victim who died in the catastrophic blaze at the west London tower block, bells of London churches will on Sunday toll 72 times and green lights will glow from tower block windows as remembrance and commemoration moves online due to the pandemic.In tribute to each victim who died in the catastrophic blaze at the west London tower block, bells of London churches will on Sunday toll 72 times and green lights will glow from tower block windows as remembrance and commemoration moves online due to the pandemic.
Faith leaders will conduct sermons and reflections online throughoutthe day and after dark from 10.30pm, and people in homes across the UK are asked to play a bright green light from their screens to show solidarity with the bereaved and survivors, said the Grenfell United group.Faith leaders will conduct sermons and reflections online throughoutthe day and after dark from 10.30pm, and people in homes across the UK are asked to play a bright green light from their screens to show solidarity with the bereaved and survivors, said the Grenfell United group.
Mussilhy said the lack of face-to-face contact with other victims and those who are bereaved is “making this year’s anniversary a lot more difficult”.Mussilhy said the lack of face-to-face contact with other victims and those who are bereaved is “making this year’s anniversary a lot more difficult”.
He described feeling “really weird and heavy this year”, adding: “I guess going through extremely tough times, the one thing that’s helped me the most is being able to be around people and be around friends and family. Not being able to do that, it’s just been extremely tough.”He described feeling “really weird and heavy this year”, adding: “I guess going through extremely tough times, the one thing that’s helped me the most is being able to be around people and be around friends and family. Not being able to do that, it’s just been extremely tough.”
Grenfell United said:Grenfell United said:
A Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government spokeswoman said:A Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government spokeswoman said:
The public inquiry into the disaster was paused in March because of the pandemic and is due to restart on 6 July.The public inquiry into the disaster was paused in March because of the pandemic and is due to restart on 6 July.
I might leave you there for now but Mattha Busby is here to guide you through the rest of the day.I might leave you there for now but Mattha Busby is here to guide you through the rest of the day.
The major events of the last few hours are:The major events of the last few hours are:
Multiple Black Lives Matter and refugee rights rallies occurred around Australia, many breaking strict public health orders as the country tries to maintain its low infection rate.Multiple Black Lives Matter and refugee rights rallies occurred around Australia, many breaking strict public health orders as the country tries to maintain its low infection rate.
Police have urged Londoners not to attend today’s planned protest due to health concerns and warnings that far-right groups may also attend the rally with intent to cause trouble.Police have urged Londoners not to attend today’s planned protest due to health concerns and warnings that far-right groups may also attend the rally with intent to cause trouble.
China reported 11 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, including six domestic cases in the capital that raised concerns about a resurgence.China reported 11 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, including six domestic cases in the capital that raised concerns about a resurgence.
The mayor of Mexico City said the Mexican capital will next week lift restrictions on car traffic and public transport, and allow 340,000 factory workers to get back to work, even though new cases of coronavirus are still rising.The mayor of Mexico City said the Mexican capital will next week lift restrictions on car traffic and public transport, and allow 340,000 factory workers to get back to work, even though new cases of coronavirus are still rising.
New Zealand hasn’t recorded any new cases of Covid-19 for 22 days. Following the recovery of an Auckland woman on Monday, New Zealand has no known active cases of Covid-19, and no one is in hospital with the virus.New Zealand hasn’t recorded any new cases of Covid-19 for 22 days. Following the recovery of an Auckland woman on Monday, New Zealand has no known active cases of Covid-19, and no one is in hospital with the virus.
White House infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has said US president Donald Trump’s campaign rallies are “a danger” and “risky”. He urged those attending to wear a mask and use hand sanitiser.White House infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci has said US president Donald Trump’s campaign rallies are “a danger” and “risky”. He urged those attending to wear a mask and use hand sanitiser.
In the city of Melbourne, in Victoria, Australia, there is concern that multiple patients could have contracted Covid-19 after a doctor worked at three medical clinics while infectious.In the city of Melbourne, in Victoria, Australia, there is concern that multiple patients could have contracted Covid-19 after a doctor worked at three medical clinics while infectious.
“The doctor did not have any symptoms at the time and went into isolation immediately upon being informed they were a close contact of a confirmed case,” said a spokesperson for the Victorian department of health.“The doctor did not have any symptoms at the time and went into isolation immediately upon being informed they were a close contact of a confirmed case,” said a spokesperson for the Victorian department of health.
He worked at three clinics between the 9 and 11 June.He worked at three clinics between the 9 and 11 June.
“All sites are being appropriately cleaned. The Department is contacting all potentially affected patients,” the spokesperson said.“All sites are being appropriately cleaned. The Department is contacting all potentially affected patients,” the spokesperson said.
“As the doctor is asymptomatic, the risk of transmission is low, however, if anyone is experiencing any symptoms they should get tested and self-isolate.”“As the doctor is asymptomatic, the risk of transmission is low, however, if anyone is experiencing any symptoms they should get tested and self-isolate.”
Victoria recorded 8 new cases in the past day, a jump from the low single digits the state has become accustomed to in the past week.Victoria recorded 8 new cases in the past day, a jump from the low single digits the state has become accustomed to in the past week.
Six of the remaining cases were from returned travellers in hotel quarantine and one was connected to an existing cluster.Six of the remaining cases were from returned travellers in hotel quarantine and one was connected to an existing cluster.
Refugee activists have defied a court order and taken to the streets in Sydney, Australia, but the small event ended without confrontation with police.Refugee activists have defied a court order and taken to the streets in Sydney, Australia, but the small event ended without confrontation with police.
A group of about 70 protesters chanted slogans, stood in front of Town Hall and did laps of the block as part of the “Free the refugees: national day of action” event on Saturday, with 100 police officers watching on.A group of about 70 protesters chanted slogans, stood in front of Town Hall and did laps of the block as part of the “Free the refugees: national day of action” event on Saturday, with 100 police officers watching on.
The Refugee Action Coalition pushed ahead with the event, despite the New South Wales supreme court on Thursday night ruling it a prohibited public assembly. NSW police opposed the event on health grounds amid the coronavirus pandemic.The Refugee Action Coalition pushed ahead with the event, despite the New South Wales supreme court on Thursday night ruling it a prohibited public assembly. NSW police opposed the event on health grounds amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Just under 300 people registered their intention to attend the event on Facebook, with another 1200 expressing their interest, but, the turnout was far smaller.Just under 300 people registered their intention to attend the event on Facebook, with another 1200 expressing their interest, but, the turnout was far smaller.
Organisers had planned to hold an “exercise protest” by having participants jog and cycle around the streets to get around the 20-person limit on public gatherings. Instead, about half the protesters walked laps of the block chanting slogans such as “free, free the refugees”, while another group stood in front of Town Hall.Organisers had planned to hold an “exercise protest” by having participants jog and cycle around the streets to get around the 20-person limit on public gatherings. Instead, about half the protesters walked laps of the block chanting slogans such as “free, free the refugees”, while another group stood in front of Town Hall.
James Supple, from the Refugee Action Coalition, defended the decision to go ahead with the rally.James Supple, from the Refugee Action Coalition, defended the decision to go ahead with the rally.
“People are attempting suicide, their mental health is deteriorating rapidly, their medical issues are not being properly treated, there’s an urgent issue there for the people who need to be released,” Supple said.“People are attempting suicide, their mental health is deteriorating rapidly, their medical issues are not being properly treated, there’s an urgent issue there for the people who need to be released,” Supple said.
Prior to the rally, the NSW premier, Gladys Berejiklian, begged protesters to stay home, while NSW police warned anyone taking part that they risked being fined or arrested.Prior to the rally, the NSW premier, Gladys Berejiklian, begged protesters to stay home, while NSW police warned anyone taking part that they risked being fined or arrested.
People joining the Black Lives Matter demonstrations on Saturday must be off the streets by 5pm, according to conditions laid down by the Metropolitan police.People joining the Black Lives Matter demonstrations on Saturday must be off the streets by 5pm, according to conditions laid down by the Metropolitan police.
The force fear the anti-racism protests – that were sparked by the death of George Floyd in the US last month – could be met with counter-demonstrations by far-right groups.The force fear the anti-racism protests – that were sparked by the death of George Floyd in the US last month – could be met with counter-demonstrations by far-right groups.
On Friday, statues in Parliament Square including Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi were boarded up to prevent them being targeted by either side.On Friday, statues in Parliament Square including Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi were boarded up to prevent them being targeted by either side.
“Obviously there are some people who are generally concerned about the protection of their statues and monuments, but many people are coming for a fight, and they are talking openly about it on their social media accounts,” Nick Lowles, chief executive of the activist group Hope not Hate, told BBC radio this morning.“Obviously there are some people who are generally concerned about the protection of their statues and monuments, but many people are coming for a fight, and they are talking openly about it on their social media accounts,” Nick Lowles, chief executive of the activist group Hope not Hate, told BBC radio this morning.
Met commander Bas Javid, brother of former chancellor Sajid, said he understood the depth of feeling of protesters, but asked people not to come to London while lockdown rules were still in force.Met commander Bas Javid, brother of former chancellor Sajid, said he understood the depth of feeling of protesters, but asked people not to come to London while lockdown rules were still in force.
“If you were planning to come to London, I again would urge you to reconsider, but if you are still intent, please familiarise yourself with what the conditions are,” he said. “Please keep yourself safe by complying with government guidance on social distancing.”“If you were planning to come to London, I again would urge you to reconsider, but if you are still intent, please familiarise yourself with what the conditions are,” he said. “Please keep yourself safe by complying with government guidance on social distancing.”
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