Coronavirus: ‘Green shoots’ starting to show, says NHS boss March 31, 2020 NHS England’s medical director has said the UK’s social distancing measures have begun to yield “green shoots”, despite today’s largest single day rise in deaths. Stephen Powis said at today’s daily Covid-19 briefing that the rate of increase in infections had begun to plateau in the past few days, but warned “we’re not out of [...]
Minimum wage hike to go ahead despite coronavirus pressure on businesses March 31, 2020 The UK minimum wage is set to rise tomorrow as planned despite calls for the government to postpone the increase due to the coronavirus outbreak. The National Minimum Wage will increase 6.2 per cent from £8.21 to £8.72 per hour from 1 April, despite the economic challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic. However, two thinktanks [...]
Trump calls for $2 trillion infrastructure spending amid coronavirus relief March 31, 2020 US President Donald Trump today called for a $2 trillion (£1.6 trillion) infrastructure spending package as part of the country’s upcoming coronavirus relief bill. Trump said the funds should be included in plans for a so-called Phase 4 stimulus package aimed at bolstering the economy during the pandemic. “With interest rates for the United States [...]
Hong Kong Betting Tips: Red Dragon can prove he’s a Super talented performer March 31, 2020 THERE are a couple of things to remember before betting at Sha Tin today. The draw normally plays an important role in determining the results on dirt racing in Hong Kong. Most of the time in races over six furlongs, statistics suggest horses can win from any draw, but when the weather is unsettled, like [...]
Hong Kong Racing Tips: Doctrine looks a Beauty of a ride for Moreira March 31, 2020 JOAO Moreira will be the jockey to follow for the majority of local racing fans when the action gets underway on the all-weather at Sha Tin today. ‘Magic Man’ Moreira delivered a five-timer, much to the delight of his many thousands of supporters, at the same course on Sunday and they will be anticipating more of [...]
FTSE 100 marks worst quarter since 1987 despite rise today March 31, 2020 The FTSE 100 rose marginally today after China’s factories showed signs of bouncing back in March, but still delivered its worst quarter since 1987 as investors panic over coronavirus. Britain’s blue-chip index closed 1.68 per cent higher today at 5,657 points. That pushed on from yesterday, when the FTSE 100 rose as the spread of [...]
Coronavirus: CBI calls for urgent economic relief for ‘stranded middle’ businesses March 31, 2020 Support must be given to “stranded middle” businesses who are not eligible for the government’s coronavirus relief package and are at risk of going bust, according to the CBI. The government’s £330bn business interruption loan scheme is open to companies with revenue of less than £45m, while large investment grade companies can access the Bank [...]
UK coronavirus death toll rises 381 to 1,789 March 31, 2020 The number of deaths from coronavirus in the UK rose 27 per cent in the past day to 1,789, according to government figures. Figures from the Department of Health show an increase of 381 deaths, by far the biggest daily increase so far. The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK rose 14 [...]
How technology is helping to maintain positive workplace culture during self-isolation March 31, 2020 Covid-19 has been disruptive to many aspects of our lives – including our work. For most organisations, remote working is quickly becoming the new normal, yet it’s a muscle many are just starting to develop. And while this transition is vital to keep employees safe, it brings with it a wealth of new challenges. Without [...]
Coronavirus: Debenhams seeks landlord support for new restructuring plan March 31, 2020 Embattled department store Debenhams is reportedly in urgent talks over a further restructuring plan that could involve more store closures. The high street chain has ramped up discussions with landlords due to the coronavirus outbreak. Debenhams’ lenders, which took control of the retailer last year, are unwilling to provide further funding without landlords agreeing to [...]
