The trial for the January 2015 attacks on satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, police officers and a kosher supermarket opens in a Paris court Wednesday

5 years on, France to try suspects in Charlie Hebdo killings

Tens of millions of pupils returned to school in France, Poland and Russia on Tuesday, their rucksacks loaded with exercise books, geometry sets and, for many, face masks to protect them from a resurgent coronavirus pandemic.

Hand cleansing stations, social distancing and staggered play time will become the new normal as countries across Europe seek ways to get children back into the classroom safely and their economies functioning once again.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/europe-tightens-restrictions-amid-surge-in-virus-hungary-shuts-border-323991" hreflang="en">Europe tightens restrictions amid surge in virus; Hungary shuts border</a>

But they do so at a time when infections rates are spiralling upwards across the continent and there are widespread concerns that the return to schools and offices, the autumn flu season and excess mortality in winter could drive a second wave.

In France, Spain and elsewhere, some parents and teachers' unions have voiced concern at plans for reopening classrooms as the spread of the virus gathers renewed pace.&nbsp;

"It's good they're starting back, getting back to a normal routine," said one parent, Stephanie, dropping off her daughter at her junior high school in Saint-Leu-d'Esserent, north of Paris.&nbsp;

Asked if she was worried about the virus spreading in schools, she said: "Not any more than at the market. You can't stop living, you just have to follow the rules."

Countries are taking different approaches to minimise contagion in schools. Spain's 17 regions are responsible for their own back-to-school plan, though they must follow national regulations such as mandatory masks for children over six.

At the Immaculate and St. Joseph of the Mountain centre, a Catholic school in Ronda, southern Spain, staff were spacing out desks and setting up a one-way system through corridors ahead of reopening on Sept. 10.

"We've put in gel, we can take their temperature, we've got spacing in all the classrooms," explained the school's director, Mother Marta, dressed in a starched white habit and matching white mask. "We're doing everything we can."

PLAN B?

The French government said the crisis must not put citizens' lives on hold, while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it was crucial schools in England re-open this week. Schools in Scotland reopened earlier this month, with face masks mandatory for secondary school students except in classroooms.&nbsp;

Johnson is under pressure to show he can oversee a full-time return to school after his Conservative government made a hash of how school-leavers would be graded for exams that were cancelled during the lockdown.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/smartphones-have-made-uk-one-of-the-laziest-countries-in-europe-323237" hreflang="en">Smartphones have made UK one of the laziest countries in Europe</a>

But unions have complained of chaos caused by last minute changes and stressed the importance of a 'Plan B' should a second wave hit.

"You don’t need a crystal ball to see that local restrictions will be a feature of the autumn and winter," said Paul Whiteman, general secretary of head teachers' union NAHT.&nbsp;

At the height of coronavirus lockdowns globally in April, some 1.5 billion children were affected by school closures, according to UNESCO. School closures widened the inequality gap, experts have said.

The risk of coronavirus transmission within schools depends on what is happening in the local community as well as the safety measures put in place, according to epidemiologists.

Global data on the spread of the coronavirus pandemic shows that children and young people make up only 1-2% of cases of COVID-19 worldwide. Most reported infections in children are mild or asymptomatic, with few recorded deaths.

"Schools operate in communities, they don't operate in isolation. So the big thing that we look for is what does transmission look like in the community where those schools operate," World Health Organization epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove said Geneva.

Germany and Sweden may offer some reassurance.

In Germany, where schools have been reopening since early August, the proportion of coronavirus cases among Under 20s has remained stable. In Sweden, keeping schools open through the pandemic did not lead to higher infection rates among students compared with neighbouring Finland, where schools temporarily closed.

"We want to see children returning to school and people returning to the workplace, but we want to see it done safely. At the same time, no country can just pretend the pandemic is over," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

Tens of millions of pupils returned to school in France, Poland and Russia on Tuesday, their rucksacks loaded with exercise books, geometry sets and, for many, face masks to protect them from a resurgent coronavirus pandemic.

Tens of millions of pupils returned to school in France, Poland and Russia on Tuesday, their rucksacks loaded with exercise books, geometry sets and, for many, face masks to protect them from a resurgent coronavirus pandemic. Hand cleansing stations, social distancing and staggered play time will become the new normal as countries across Europe seek ways to get children back into the classroom safely and their economies functioning once again. Also read: Europe tightens restrictions amid surge in virus; Hungary shuts border But they do so at a time when infections rates are spiralling upwards across the continent and there are widespread concerns that the return to schools and offices, the autumn flu season and excess mortality in winter could drive a second wave. In France, Spain and elsewhere, some parents and teachers' unions have voiced concern at plans for reopening classrooms as the spread of the virus gathers renewed pace. "It's good they're starting back, getting back to a normal routine," said one parent, Stephanie, dropping off her daughter at her junior high school in Saint-Leu-d'Esserent, north of Paris. Asked if she was worried about the virus spreading in schools, she said: "Not any more than at the market. You can't stop living, you just have to follow the rules." Countries are taking different approaches to minimise contagion in schools. Spain's 17 regions are responsible for their own back-to-school plan, though they must follow national regulations such as mandatory masks for children over six. At the Immaculate and St. Joseph of the Mountain centre, a Catholic school in Ronda, southern Spain, staff were spacing out desks and setting up a one-way system through corridors ahead of reopening on Sept. 10. "We've put in gel, we can take their temperature, we've got spacing in all the classrooms," explained the school's director, Mother Marta, dressed in a starched white habit and matching white mask. "We're doing everything we can." PLAN B? The French government said the crisis must not put citizens' lives on hold, while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it was crucial schools in England re-open this week. Schools in Scotland reopened earlier this month, with face masks mandatory for secondary school students except in classroooms. Johnson is under pressure to show he can oversee a full-time return to school after his Conservative government made a hash of how school-leavers would be graded for exams that were cancelled during the lockdown. Also read: Smartphones have made UK one of the laziest countries in Europe But unions have complained of chaos caused by last minute changes and stressed the importance of a 'Plan B' should a second wave hit. "You don’t need a crystal ball to see that local restrictions will be a feature of the autumn and winter," said Paul Whiteman, general secretary of head teachers' union NAHT. At the height of coronavirus lockdowns globally in April, some 1.5 billion children were affected by school closures, according to UNESCO. School closures widened the inequality gap, experts have said. The risk of coronavirus transmission within schools depends on what is happening in the local community as well as the safety measures put in place, according to epidemiologists. Global data on the spread of the coronavirus pandemic shows that children and young people make up only 1-2% of cases of COVID-19 worldwide. Most reported infections in children are mild or asymptomatic, with few recorded deaths. "Schools operate in communities, they don't operate in isolation. So the big thing that we look for is what does transmission look like in the community where those schools operate," World Health Organization epidemiologist Maria Van Kerkhove said Geneva. Germany and Sweden may offer some reassurance. In Germany, where schools have been reopening since early August, the proportion of coronavirus cases among Under 20s has remained stable. In Sweden, keeping schools open through the pandemic did not lead to higher infection rates among students compared with neighbouring Finland, where schools temporarily closed. "We want to see children returning to school and people returning to the workplace, but we want to see it done safely. At the same time, no country can just pretend the pandemic is over," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

Texts books and face masks, Europe's children return to school

People from Paris, Zurich, London & different parts of Europe are protesting against new Coronavirus restrictions & mandatory masks. Protesters raises slogans ' No to the health dictatorship'.

Protest against mandatory masks & COVID-19 restrictions across Europe

According to UN Refugee Agency official, Turkey is the country that has hosted the largest number of refugees for five consecutive years, including more Syrian refugees than any other country.

Turkey hosts 4 million refugees, migrants cross country to enter Europe

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on a five-nation tour to Europe. The visit is seen as an attempt at damage control by China - after its diplomats triggered several diplomatic fires. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how China is losing ground in Europe.

Gravitas: Wang Yi on a damage control mission to Europe

The Chinese economy is vulnerable and the country is losing friends and fast. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on a Europe tour.&nbsp;

Europe has not only battled the Wuhan virus, but it also fought diplomatic attacks, disinformation and fake news from China.&nbsp;

Wang Yi's brief is clear 'control the damage'.&nbsp;

In March, a video was shared by a Chinese government official and had claimed that Italians are singing “Grazie Cina” or thank you China from their balconies. However, the video turned out to be fake.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wang-yi-on-a-damage-control-mission-to-europe-323074/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This was propaganda by the Chinese state. A fake video --- meant to amplify the news that China is sending urgent medical supplies to Italy.&nbsp;

Europe didn’t ignore China’s misinformation campaign. The European Union wanted to make things public.

But China warned the EU, at least three times, against naming Beijing in its disinformation report.

The European Union refuses to bow before China now. It went public in June. Europe blamed China for a “hugh wave” of disinformation on the coronavirus in a report.&nbsp;

This --- was one of the many instances this summer --- where Beijing's diplomacy backfired.

((https://twitter.Com/globaltimesnews/status/1298181379398631427))

Now, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is being dispatched to Europe for damage control. Wang Yi will visit five countries in one week.

He will hold meetings with every key stakeholder in European politics.

China is increasingly losing ground in Europe. Wang Yi’s job will be to contain the damage --- inflicted by China’s missteps.

Wang Yi's first stop was Italy. The country that suffered the worst outbreak of the Wuhan virus in Europe.

Wang Yi's tone was friendly on the first day. But China seems to be losing friends in Brussels. Josep Borrell, the European Union’s Foreign Policy chief has called for a united front against China.

In a blog on the European Union website, Borrell described China as aggressive and assertive. The piece makes mention of India's border standoff with China in Ladakh.

Also the shrinking tolerance for dissent in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Earlier this year, the European Union itself got a taste of china’s censorship.

It was censored not once but twice by China.&nbsp;

First, in April, a report on disinformation softened criticism against China. Then in May, an op-ed jointly authored by ambassadors of 27 European Union member states was censored.

A sentence that labelled China as the original hotspot of the Wuhan virus was deleted.&nbsp;

Faulty Wuhan virus supplies only added to Beijing's troubles. &nbsp;Spain, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic were among those who complained.

Joining a global chorus of countries --- which raised serious doubts over Chinese supplies.&nbsp;

Wang Yi's Europe tour is his first trip abroad since the pandemic hit the world. His mission is to bridge the divide with China’s European partners. But given the recent statements by the European Union --- the Chinese foreign minister is more likely to face a hostile crowd.

The Chinese economy is vulnerable and the country is losing friends and fast. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on a Europe tour. Europe has not only battled the Wuhan virus, but it also fought diplomatic attacks, disinformation and fake news from China.

The Chinese economy is vulnerable and the country is losing friends and fast. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on a Europe tour. Europe has not only battled the Wuhan virus, but it also fought diplomatic attacks, disinformation and fake news from China. Wang Yi's brief is clear 'control the damage'. In March, a video was shared by a Chinese government official and had claimed that Italians are singing “Grazie Cina” or thank you China from their balconies. However, the video turned out to be fake. This was propaganda by the Chinese state. A fake video --- meant to amplify the news that China is sending urgent medical supplies to Italy. Europe didn’t ignore China’s misinformation campaign. The European Union wanted to make things public. But China warned the EU, at least three times, against naming Beijing in its disinformation report. The European Union refuses to bow before China now. It went public in June. Europe blamed China for a “hugh wave” of disinformation on the coronavirus in a report. This --- was one of the many instances this summer --- where Beijing's diplomacy backfired. ((https://twitter.Com/globaltimesnews/status/1298181379398631427)) Now, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is being dispatched to Europe for damage control. Wang Yi will visit five countries in one week. He will hold meetings with every key stakeholder in European politics. China is increasingly losing ground in Europe. Wang Yi’s job will be to contain the damage --- inflicted by China’s missteps. Wang Yi's first stop was Italy. The country that suffered the worst outbreak of the Wuhan virus in Europe. Wang Yi's tone was friendly on the first day. But China seems to be losing friends in Brussels. Josep Borrell, the European Union’s Foreign Policy chief has called for a united front against China. In a blog on the European Union website, Borrell described China as aggressive and assertive. The piece makes mention of India's border standoff with China in Ladakh. Also the shrinking tolerance for dissent in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Earlier this year, the European Union itself got a taste of china’s censorship. It was censored not once but twice by China. First, in April, a report on disinformation softened criticism against China. Then in May, an op-ed jointly authored by ambassadors of 27 European Union member states was censored. A sentence that labelled China as the original hotspot of the Wuhan virus was deleted. Faulty Wuhan virus supplies only added to Beijing's troubles. Spain, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic were among those who complained. Joining a global chorus of countries --- which raised serious doubts over Chinese supplies. Wang Yi's Europe tour is his first trip abroad since the pandemic hit the world. His mission is to bridge the divide with China’s European partners. But given the recent statements by the European Union --- the Chinese foreign minister is more likely to face a hostile crowd.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi is on 'control the damage' tour to Europe

New COVID-19 clusters are disrupting the peak summer vacations across Europe. The authorities in some countries are reimposing restrictions. Watch report.

Lockdown reimposed in some European countries due to 2nd COVID-19 wave

European countries continue to reopen tourist sites even as COVID-19 cases continue to surge. Watch developments that have raised several eyebrows across the world.

Europe reopens tourism amid rising COVID-19 cases

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its concerns on Friday on the resurgence of new COVID-19 infections in Europe, the continent worst-affected by the deadly virus in terms of deaths.

"The recent resurgence in COVID-19 cases in some countries following the easing of physical distancing measures is certainly cause for concern," a WHO spokeswoman of European Chapter told news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-adds-record-49310-coronavirus-cases-in-single-day-total-deaths-pass-30000-315626">India adds record 49,310 coronavirus cases in single day, total deaths pass 30,000</a>

"Where new clusters of cases appear, these need to be controlled through rapid and targeted interventions including rapid case detection and isolation and diligent contact tracing and quarantining," the spokeswoman said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-chinese-candidate-shows-promise-in-animal-trials-315696">Coronavirus vaccine: Chinese candidate shows promise in animal trials</a>

The total number of cases in Europe on Thursday crossed three million, a fifth of over 15 million infections around the world. With 206,663 fatalities, Europe has seen the most number of deaths from the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

In the regions covered by WHO's European chapter, Kyrgyzstan has reported the highest number of cases, 335 new infections per 100,000 people in the last two weeks.&nbsp;

Montenegro (207), Luxemburg (196), Bosnia (98), Serbia (71), Romania (52) and Bulgaria (46) are the other countries that are seeing a spike in infections.&nbsp;

However, the number of infections have come down considerably in countries like Armenia (197 cases per 100,000), Kazakhstan (128), Moldavia (82), and Russia (60).

The total number of daily cases in Europe have remained stable with nearly 20,000 infections since May 20, over twice as low as when the virus peaked in the beginning of April.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its concerns on Friday on the resurgence of new COVID-19 infections in Europe, the continent worst-affected by the deadly virus in terms of deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its concerns on Friday on the resurgence of new COVID-19 infections in Europe, the continent worst-affected by the deadly virus in terms of deaths. "The recent resurgence in COVID-19 cases in some countries following the easing of physical distancing measures is certainly cause for concern," a WHO spokeswoman of European Chapter told news agency AFP. Also read | India adds record 49,310 coronavirus cases in single day, total deaths pass 30,000 "Where new clusters of cases appear, these need to be controlled through rapid and targeted interventions including rapid case detection and isolation and diligent contact tracing and quarantining," the spokeswoman said. Also read | Coronavirus vaccine: Chinese candidate shows promise in animal trials The total number of cases in Europe on Thursday crossed three million, a fifth of over 15 million infections around the world. With 206,663 fatalities, Europe has seen the most number of deaths from the novel coronavirus. In the regions covered by WHO's European chapter, Kyrgyzstan has reported the highest number of cases, 335 new infections per 100,000 people in the last two weeks. Montenegro (207), Luxemburg (196), Bosnia (98), Serbia (71), Romania (52) and Bulgaria (46) are the other countries that are seeing a spike in infections. However, the number of infections have come down considerably in countries like Armenia (197 cases per 100,000), Kazakhstan (128), Moldavia (82), and Russia (60). The total number of daily cases in Europe have remained stable with nearly 20,000 infections since May 20, over twice as low as when the virus peaked in the beginning of April.

Coronavirus: WHO concerned over infections surge in Europe

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19.

"Conclusions adopted"

An official present at the summit announced, “conclusions adopted!”

The massive stimulus plan will resuscitate affected economies back to life, four days after their summit began, and was caught in a deadlock after Dutch PM refused to accept preliminary terms, favouring grants and loans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-unions-coronavirus-rescue-summit-moment-of-truth-says-macron-313966" hreflang="en">European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron</a>

A new proposal was presented by EU Council President Charles Michel after countries were unable to reach a consensus. The 27 leaders perceived the 750 billion Euro deal differently, and critics believed that this would shed light on the future of EU.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/eu-leaders-extend-summit-as-they-grapple-over-coronavirus-recovery-plan-314359" hreflang="en">EU leaders grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan</a>

To make it workable for everybody, Michel made cuts to climate change schemes, and also reworked the overall package to ensure cooperation from all parties involved.

The EU was marred by a failed collective response to the pandemic, whereby almost every country dealt with the crisis on individual terms. Italy also lodged complaints over the lack of support, for once it was one of the hardest-hit countries in the world. The bloc has also been weakened by the departure of UK.

This deal was an opportunity for leaders to show they can stick up and beat the pandemic blues together.

"Billions"

The European Central Bank has put in billions into the economies of various countries to keep them afloat and to ensure unemployment does not soar.

EU leaders debated on the outcome throughout the weekend.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel showed optimism since the beginning and believed the stimulus package would come through, like it did. Additionally, they linked it to the 2021-2027 common budget of over 1.1 trillion Euros.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/mr-no-no-no-why-dutch-pm-rutte-plays-role-of-eu-bogeyman-314529" hreflang="en">'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman</a>

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe experienced its deepest recession since World War 2, and lowered Italy’s borrowing&nbsp;costs, while pushing the Euro to a 19-week high.

As part of the recovery fund, reportedly 390 billion Euros will be non-repayable grants, which is significantly lower than the previously proposed 500 billion Euros. The rest will be in the form of repayable loans.

The Netherlands opted for a veto on aid for countries that weren’t pushing for economic reform, which caused delays.

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19.

The European Union leaders broke the deadlock and solidified a deal to assist with post-pandemic recovery in the bloc. Officially announced on Tuesday morning, the deal with entail 750 billion Euros (roughly 859 billion USD) extended to member countries in the form of grants and loans in a bid to beat the recession triggered by COVID-19. "Conclusions adopted" An official present at the summit announced, “conclusions adopted!” The massive stimulus plan will resuscitate affected economies back to life, four days after their summit began, and was caught in a deadlock after Dutch PM refused to accept preliminary terms, favouring grants and loans. Also read: European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron A new proposal was presented by EU Council President Charles Michel after countries were unable to reach a consensus. The 27 leaders perceived the 750 billion Euro deal differently, and critics believed that this would shed light on the future of EU. Also read: EU leaders grapple over coronavirus, recovery plan To make it workable for everybody, Michel made cuts to climate change schemes, and also reworked the overall package to ensure cooperation from all parties involved. The EU was marred by a failed collective response to the pandemic, whereby almost every country dealt with the crisis on individual terms. Italy also lodged complaints over the lack of support, for once it was one of the hardest-hit countries in the world. The bloc has also been weakened by the departure of UK. This deal was an opportunity for leaders to show they can stick up and beat the pandemic blues together. "Billions" The European Central Bank has put in billions into the economies of various countries to keep them afloat and to ensure unemployment does not soar. EU leaders debated on the outcome throughout the weekend. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel showed optimism since the beginning and believed the stimulus package would come through, like it did. Additionally, they linked it to the 2021-2027 common budget of over 1.1 trillion Euros. Also read: 'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Europe experienced its deepest recession since World War 2, and lowered Italy’s borrowing costs, while pushing the Euro to a 19-week high. As part of the recovery fund, reportedly 390 billion Euros will be non-repayable grants, which is significantly lower than the previously proposed 500 billion Euros. The rest will be in the form of repayable loans. The Netherlands opted for a veto on aid for countries that weren’t pushing for economic reform, which caused delays.

European Union breaks deadlock, inks a post-pandemic economic recovery deal

Over a million minks have been killed in Europe after testing positive for COVID-19. Fur Farms in the Netherlands were the first to detect cases. Now, Denmark and Spain are culling minks. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: A Million Minks Culled In Europe

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".&nbsp;

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr&nbsp;No No No!".

Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/european-unions-coronavirus-rescue-summit-moment-of-truth-says-macron-313966" hreflang="en">European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron</a>

While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home.

The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift.

Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular.&nbsp;

The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French".

"Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this."&nbsp;

Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story".

"According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote.

But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age.

Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic.

In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague.

This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess".

As EU negotiations over a coronavirus recovery fund and a new budget for the bloc ran into an impasse, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte was singled out by one leader this weekend as the "man responsible for the whole mess". Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused him of that, while Spanish and Italian diplomats have taken to calling him "Mr No No No!". Standing up for not spending money on European projects requires a naysayer, and Rutte has taken on the role with calculated determination as leader of a group of smaller "frugal" nations. Also read: European Union's coronavirus rescue summit 'moment of truth', says Macron While he may cut a less colourful figure than Margaret Thatcher a generation ago, Rutte's readiness to don the mantle of parsimony after Britain's departure from the EU is solidly grounded in public opinion and politics at home. The Dutch, who support EU membership by a two-thirds majority, take pride in both their history as a trading nation and their traditional Calvinist thrift. Dutch taxpayers are aware that they are proportionately among the largest contributors to the EU budget, and the idea of giving or lending more is unpopular. The "Mr. No" moniker derives from an April video clip, frequently retweeted, that shows a Dutch waste collector shouting at Rutte not to give money to "those Italians and French". "Oh, no, no, no." Rutte replied. "I will remember this." Critics say the Dutch reluctance to spend now is misplaced, given the country's large trade surplus with the rest of the EU. Unicredit economist Erik Nielsen argued in a note on Sunday that the Dutch 2018 net budget contribution of 2.4 billion euros "tells only a small part of the real financial story". "According to the Tax Justice Network, that same year, the Netherlands’ tax haven structures helped them grab 6.7 billion euros in tax receipts from Germany, France, Italy and Spain," he wrote. But conversations in the Netherlands more often focus on whether Dutch prosperity is the result of a tougher work ethic, and whether it is fair to share funds with countries that have a lower retirement age. Domestic politics also play a role. With national elections looming in March, Rutte's conservative VVD Party must jockey with far-right parties for exactly those voters most likely to be euro-sceptic. In addition, his current centre-right coalition lacks a majority in parliament. Any compromise struck in Brussels now that goes too far in the eyes of the Dutch might not be ratified later in The Hague. This rejection happened in 2005 and again, to a deal Rutte had agreed to, in 2016.

'Mr No, No, No': Why Dutch PM Rutte plays role of EU bogeyman

Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals.

In its order four years ago, the European Commission said Apple benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014.

Defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apple-reportedly-paid-almost-1-billion-to-samsung-for-faltering-on-order-for-screens-313197" hreflang="en">Apple reportedly paid almost $1 billion to Samsung for faltering on order for screens</a>

Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals.&nbsp;

The Apple dispute is seen by some analysts as a lose-lose situation for Ireland, which has appealed against the Commission's order alongside the iPhone maker.&nbsp;

While 14 billion euros - including interest - would go a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in the state's finances, Dublin is seeking to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers.

If Ireland's appeal succeeds, the government will be ridiculed by opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/apple-supplier-foxconn-to-invest-1-billion-in-india-sources-312563" hreflang="en">Apple supplier Foxconn to invest $1 billion in India: Sources</a>

Should Ireland lose, the government will be castigated by the same politicians for launching the appeal. A ruling in favour of the Commission could also raise questions about the application of Ireland's tax code at a sensitive time, when new global rules for taxing digital giants are being debated.

Defeat could also hurt Ireland's ability to attract investment, although the promotional blitz undertaken after the Commission's 2016 decision appears to have worked. The numbers employed by multinationals like Apple, Facebook and Google have grown by 25%, accounting for one in ten Irish workers.

For Apple, defeat would be a blow, but manageable given its cash holdings topped $190 billion at the end of its fiscal second quarter.&nbsp;

The cases are T-778/16 Ireland v Commission and T-892/16 Apple Sales International and Apple Operations Europe v Commission. The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals.

Apple's clash with EU competition regulators comes to a head on Wednesday as Europe's second-highest court rules on whether it has to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in Irish back taxes, a key part of the EU's crackdown against sweetheart tax deals. In its order four years ago, the European Commission said Apple benefited from illegal state aid via two Irish tax rulings that artificially reduced its tax burden for over two decades - to as low as 0.005% in 2014. Defeat for European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager could weaken or delay pending cases against Ikea's and Nike's deals with the Netherlands, as well as Huhtamaki's agreement with Luxembourg. Also read: Apple reportedly paid almost $1 billion to Samsung for faltering on order for screens Vestager, who has made the tax crackdown a centrepiece of her time in office, saw the same court last year overturn her demand for Starbucks to pay up to 30 million euros in Dutch back taxes. In another case, the court also threw out her ruling against a Belgian tax scheme for 39 multinationals. The Apple dispute is seen by some analysts as a lose-lose situation for Ireland, which has appealed against the Commission's order alongside the iPhone maker. While 14 billion euros - including interest - would go a long way to plugging the coronavirus-shaped hole in the state's finances, Dublin is seeking to protect a low tax regime that has attracted 250,000 multinational employers. If Ireland's appeal succeeds, the government will be ridiculed by opposition parties for not taking the cash, which could cover at least half of a budget deficit forecast to balloon to as much as 10% of GDP this year. Also read: Apple supplier Foxconn to invest $1 billion in India: Sources Should Ireland lose, the government will be castigated by the same politicians for launching the appeal. A ruling in favour of the Commission could also raise questions about the application of Ireland's tax code at a sensitive time, when new global rules for taxing digital giants are being debated. Defeat could also hurt Ireland's ability to attract investment, although the promotional blitz undertaken after the Commission's 2016 decision appears to have worked. The numbers employed by multinationals like Apple, Facebook and Google have grown by 25%, accounting for one in ten Irish workers. For Apple, defeat would be a blow, but manageable given its cash holdings topped $190 billion at the end of its fiscal second quarter. The cases are T-778/16 Ireland v Commission and T-892/16 Apple Sales International and Apple Operations Europe v Commission. The defeated side can appeal on points of law to the EU Court of Justice, Europe's highest court.

Crunch time for Apple in fight against $15 billion EU tax order

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day &nbsp;on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government. 
 
Over 3,000 protesters shouted "Mafia" and "Resign" outside the government headquarters in Sofia and marched to parliament. 
 
The protests in the capital were sparked by an unprecedented raid by heavily armed police and prosecutors on the presidential headquarters on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/bulgarias-borissov-demands-resignation-of-mafia-type-government-amid-anti-corruption-protests-312608" hreflang="en">Bulgaria's Borissov demands resignation of 'mafia' type government amid anti-corruption protests</a> 
 
President Rumen Radev's legal affairs and anti-corruption secretary and his security and defence advisor were detained for questioning and their offices searched&nbsp;as part of two separate probes into influence-peddling and disclosure of state secrets. 
 
Protesters also gathered in at least ten other towns on Sunday. 
 
The searches on Thursday sparked public anger and brought thousands of demonstrators onto the streets of Sofia to condemn the raids as an attack by the government and the chief prosecutor against the Socialists-backed Radev. 
 
The president is an outspoken critic of the cabinet of Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, accusing it of "links with oligarchs". 
 
Borisov on Saturday refused to resign but opponents launched an online petition aiming to gather as many as one million signatures to demand his ouster. 
 
The Socialist opposition in parliament also said Sunday that they would table a no confidence motion against the cabinet for "corruption" next Wednesday, appealing to protesters to back them. 
 
Friday's rallies turned violent with 18 protesters arrested, including two men who were hospitalised after being beaten, prompting an even bigger turnout on Saturday when Radev joined protesters in their demand for the resignation of the cabinet and the chief prosecutor. 
 
Police had appealed for restraint ahead of Sunday's demonstration and the interior ministry announced late Sunday that the rally had ended without incident. 
 
Thirteen years after joining the EU as its poorest country, Bulgaria has also remained the bloc's most graft-prone member state, according to Transparency International's corruption perception index. 
 
A new rally is scheduled for Monday afternoon and another nationwide protest for Thursday.

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government.

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government. Over 3,000 protesters shouted "Mafia" and "Resign" outside the government headquarters in Sofia and marched to parliament. The protests in the capital were sparked by an unprecedented raid by heavily armed police and prosecutors on the presidential headquarters on Thursday. Also read: Bulgaria's Borissov demands resignation of 'mafia' type government amid anti-corruption protests President Rumen Radev's legal affairs and anti-corruption secretary and his security and defence advisor were detained for questioning and their offices searched as part of two separate probes into influence-peddling and disclosure of state secrets. Protesters also gathered in at least ten other towns on Sunday. The searches on Thursday sparked public anger and brought thousands of demonstrators onto the streets of Sofia to condemn the raids as an attack by the government and the chief prosecutor against the Socialists-backed Radev. The president is an outspoken critic of the cabinet of Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, accusing it of "links with oligarchs". Borisov on Saturday refused to resign but opponents launched an online petition aiming to gather as many as one million signatures to demand his ouster. The Socialist opposition in parliament also said Sunday that they would table a no confidence motion against the cabinet for "corruption" next Wednesday, appealing to protesters to back them. Friday's rallies turned violent with 18 protesters arrested, including two men who were hospitalised after being beaten, prompting an even bigger turnout on Saturday when Radev joined protesters in their demand for the resignation of the cabinet and the chief prosecutor. Police had appealed for restraint ahead of Sunday's demonstration and the interior ministry announced late Sunday that the rally had ended without incident. Thirteen years after joining the EU as its poorest country, Bulgaria has also remained the bloc's most graft-prone member state, according to Transparency International's corruption perception index. A new rally is scheduled for Monday afternoon and another nationwide protest for Thursday.

Fourth night of anti-government protests in Bulgaria

Google`s YouTube is not required to hand over the email or IP address of users who upload films illegally to its video platform, Europe`s top court ruled on Thursday, saying there must be a balance between protecting personal data and copyright. 
 
The case came before the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) after a German court sought guidance on what video platforms must do to combat film piracy in a case concerning German film distributor Constantin Film Verleih. 
 
The company, which had distribution rights to the films 'Scary Movie 5' and 'Parker' in Germany, had asked YouTube and Google to provide the email addresses, telephone numbers and IP addresses of users who had uploaded those films illegally onto YouTube in 2013 and 2014. 
 
Constantin Film took its case to the German court after Alphabet subsidiaries Google and YouTube refused to supply the details. 
 
"When a film is unlawfully uploaded onto an online platform, such as YouTube, the rights holder may, under the directive on the enforcement of intellectual property rights, require the operator to provide only the postal address of the user concerned, but not his or her email, IP address or telephone number," judges said. 
They said EU countries could opt for more protection for intellectual property rights holders but there must be a fair and proportionate balance between various fundamental rights. 
 
A YouTube spokeswoman said Google and YouTube were committed to protecting copyright and safeguarding privacy of their users and their data. "Today's CJEU decision provides the legal clarity on what information is appropriate to share with rights holders in case of a copyright claim," she said in an emailed statement.

Google`s YouTube is not required to hand over the email or IP address of users who upload films illegally to its video platform, Europe`s top court ruled on Thursday, saying there must be a balance between protecting personal data and copyright.

Google`s YouTube is not required to hand over the email or IP address of users who upload films illegally to its video platform, Europe`s top court ruled on Thursday, saying there must be a balance between protecting personal data and copyright. The case came before the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) after a German court sought guidance on what video platforms must do to combat film piracy in a case concerning German film distributor Constantin Film Verleih. The company, which had distribution rights to the films 'Scary Movie 5' and 'Parker' in Germany, had asked YouTube and Google to provide the email addresses, telephone numbers and IP addresses of users who had uploaded those films illegally onto YouTube in 2013 and 2014. Constantin Film took its case to the German court after Alphabet subsidiaries Google and YouTube refused to supply the details. "When a film is unlawfully uploaded onto an online platform, such as YouTube, the rights holder may, under the directive on the enforcement of intellectual property rights, require the operator to provide only the postal address of the user concerned, but not his or her email, IP address or telephone number," judges said. They said EU countries could opt for more protection for intellectual property rights holders but there must be a fair and proportionate balance between various fundamental rights. A YouTube spokeswoman said Google and YouTube were committed to protecting copyright and safeguarding privacy of their users and their data. "Today's CJEU decision provides the legal clarity on what information is appropriate to share with rights holders in case of a copyright claim," she said in an emailed statement.

YouTube not obliged to inform on film pirates, Europe's top court says

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada.

Apple began the program last year in the United States after years of lobbying against state-level "right to repair" bills that would have compelled it to provide parts to independent shops.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/ceos-of-apple-amazon-facebook-and-google-to-testify-in-congress-over-antitrust-issues-310090" hreflang="en">CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues</a>

Apple has long maintained a network of authorized service providers such as Best Buy Co Inc to perform warranty work, but smaller shops had complained that the program was too costly to join because of high volume commitments, leaving them without access to genuine Apple parts or the software tools needed to perform some repairs.

Apple launched its program for those independent shops last August, making it free to join if technicians complete a training program. Apple said Wednesday that 140 businesses with 700 locations have signed up for the program in the United States. Some of the independent shops, such as uBreakiFix, have multiple locations, while some are sole proprietorships.

"When a customer needs a repair, we want them to have a range of options that not only suits their needs but also guarantees safety and quality so their iPhone can be used for as long as possible," Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer, said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/apple-other-us-goods-from-china-held-up-at-indian-ports-308321" hreflang="en">Apple, other US goods from China held up at Indian ports</a>

Under the program, independent shops get access to Apple parts and tools to perform out-of-warranty repairs. They also get Apple parts at the same prices as authorized service centers and can still also use third-party after-market parts and set their own prices. The program only covers iPhones.&nbsp;

Independent shops must inform customers whether they are using genuine Apple parts and send any salvaged Apple parts back to the company, where they are either refurbished or recycled. Apple said it is also creating an online tool to verify whether an independent shop participates in its program.

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada.

Apple Inc said on Wednesday it is expanding a program to supply repair parts, tools and manuals for iPhones to independent repair shops in 32 countries in Europe as well as Canada. Apple began the program last year in the United States after years of lobbying against state-level "right to repair" bills that would have compelled it to provide parts to independent shops. Also read: CEOs of Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Google to testify in Congress over antitrust issues Apple has long maintained a network of authorized service providers such as Best Buy Co Inc to perform warranty work, but smaller shops had complained that the program was too costly to join because of high volume commitments, leaving them without access to genuine Apple parts or the software tools needed to perform some repairs. Apple launched its program for those independent shops last August, making it free to join if technicians complete a training program. Apple said Wednesday that 140 businesses with 700 locations have signed up for the program in the United States. Some of the independent shops, such as uBreakiFix, have multiple locations, while some are sole proprietorships. "When a customer needs a repair, we want them to have a range of options that not only suits their needs but also guarantees safety and quality so their iPhone can be used for as long as possible," Jeff Williams, Apple's chief operating officer, said in a statement. Also read: Apple, other US goods from China held up at Indian ports Under the program, independent shops get access to Apple parts and tools to perform out-of-warranty repairs. They also get Apple parts at the same prices as authorized service centers and can still also use third-party after-market parts and set their own prices. The program only covers iPhones. Independent shops must inform customers whether they are using genuine Apple parts and send any salvaged Apple parts back to the company, where they are either refurbished or recycled. Apple said it is also creating an online tool to verify whether an independent shop participates in its program.

Apple expands independent repair shop programme to Europe, Canada

Initial results of the voting on constitutional amendments in Russia have revealed that nearly 73 per cent of the voters have backed the potential changes.

As per Interfax news agency, the changes saw a majority support, which would enable Vladimir Putin to run again for president twice.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/baseless-russia-denies-accusation-of-giving-bounties-to-taliban-to-attack-us-forces-308996" hreflang="en">'Baseless': Russia denies accusation of giving bounties to Taliban to attack US forces</a>

Based on an&nbsp;early tally by another agency, 73.7 per cent people voted in favour of the impending reforms.

The Kremlin reluctantly postponed the vote earlier scheduled for April 22 as Covid-19 infections increased and officials imposed restrictions to slow the pandemic.

Putin introduced the reforms to the 1993 Constitution in January this year, and they were hastily adopted by both Houses of Parliament and regional lawmakers.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/putins-reform-package-from-russia-putins-grand-bid-to-hold-onto-power-309924/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Once the constitutional changes are approved, Putin would be able to run for two more back-to-back six-year terms after his current one expires in 2024.

The former KGB operative has been in power as either president or prime minister since 1999, and has not ruled out running again, but says he has not taken a final decision.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/victory-day-celebrations-in-russia-kremlins-weapon-to-legitimise-putins-indefinite-presidency-308343" hreflang="en">Victory Day celebrations in Russia: Kremlin's weapon to legitimise Putin's indefinite presidency</a>

Critics believe he intends to cling to power like elderly Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev who died in office. Others believe he is keeping his options open so as no to become a lame duck ahead of 2024 and may yet still hand over the reins to a handpicked but currently unknown successor.

Supported by state media and facing no immediate threat from a divided opposition, the vote, which is on a large bundle of constitutional changes, is expected to go Putin's way despite rising unemployment, a coronavirus-battered economy and no real prospect of an economic upswing anytime soon.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Initial results of the voting on constitutional amendments in Russia have revealed that nearly 73 per cent of the voters have backed the potential changes. As per Interfax news agency, the changes saw a majority support, which would enable Vladimir Putin to run again for president twice.

Initial results of the voting on constitutional amendments in Russia have revealed that nearly 73 per cent of the voters have backed the potential changes. As per Interfax news agency, the changes saw a majority support, which would enable Vladimir Putin to run again for president twice. Also read: 'Baseless': Russia denies accusation of giving bounties to Taliban to attack US forces Based on an early tally by another agency, 73.7 per cent people voted in favour of the impending reforms. The Kremlin reluctantly postponed the vote earlier scheduled for April 22 as Covid-19 infections increased and officials imposed restrictions to slow the pandemic. Putin introduced the reforms to the 1993 Constitution in January this year, and they were hastily adopted by both Houses of Parliament and regional lawmakers. Once the constitutional changes are approved, Putin would be able to run for two more back-to-back six-year terms after his current one expires in 2024. The former KGB operative has been in power as either president or prime minister since 1999, and has not ruled out running again, but says he has not taken a final decision. Also read: Victory Day celebrations in Russia: Kremlin's weapon to legitimise Putin's indefinite presidency Critics believe he intends to cling to power like elderly Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev who died in office. Others believe he is keeping his options open so as no to become a lame duck ahead of 2024 and may yet still hand over the reins to a handpicked but currently unknown successor. Supported by state media and facing no immediate threat from a divided opposition, the vote, which is on a large bundle of constitutional changes, is expected to go Putin's way despite rising unemployment, a coronavirus-battered economy and no real prospect of an economic upswing anytime soon. (With inputs from Reuters)

Over 73% people voted in favour of constitutional amendments in Russia, initial reviews suggest

Europe has been hit by a heatwave with temperatures touching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Heatwaves lead to rising temperatures across Europe

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life.

Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netizens-lash-out-at-british-pm-boris-johnson-after-his-press-ups-309417" hreflang="en">Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups'</a>

"I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue."

The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater.

"HUGELY COSTLY"

Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported.

"I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-pm-to-unveil-new-infrastructure-plan-to-revive-economy-in-face-of-pandemic-309188" hreflang="en">Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic</a>

Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer.

"We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS."

Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes."

"When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know."

"I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life. Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." Also read: Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups' "I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue." The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater. "HUGELY COSTLY" Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported. "I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address." Also read: Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer. "We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS." Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper. Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes." "When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know." "I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are fatter than the rest of Europe, says PM Johnson

By Claire Crossan

The novel coronavirus – SARS-CoV-2 – may have been in Europe for longer than previously thought. Recent studies have suggested that it was circulating in Italy as early as December 2019. More surprisingly, researchers at the University of Barcelona found traces of the virus when testing untreated wastewater samples dated March 12, 2019.

The study was recently published on a preprint server, medRxiv. The paper is currently being subject to critical review by outside experts in preparation for publication in a scientific journal. Until this process of peer review has been completed, though, the evidence needs to be treated with caution.

So, how was the experiment conducted and what exactly did the scientists find?

One of the early findings about SARS-CoV-2 is that it is found in the faeces of infected people. As the virus makes its way through the gut – where it can cause gastrointestinal symptoms – it loses its outer protein layer, but bits of genetic material called RNA survive the journey intact and are “shed” in faeces. At this point, it is no longer infectious – as far as current evidence tells us.

But the fact that these bits of coronavirus RNA can be found in untreated wastewater (known as “influent”) is useful for tracking outbreaks. Indeed, they can predict where an outbreak is likely to occur a week to ten days before they show up in official figures – the reason being that people shed coronavirus before symptoms become evident. These “pre-symptomatic” people then have to get sick enough to be tested, get the results, and be admitted to a hospital as an official “case”, hence the week or so lag.

As a result, many countries, including Spain, are now monitoring wastewater for traces of coronavirus. In this particular study, wastewater epidemiologists were examining frozen samples of influent between January 2018 and December 2019 to see when the virus made its debut in the city.

They found evidence of the virus on January 15, 2020, 41 days before the first official case was declared on February 25, 2020. All the samples before this date were negative, except for a sample from March 12, 2019, which gave a positive result in their PCR test for coronavirus. PCR is the standard way of testing to see if someone currently has the disease.

PCR involves getting samples of saliva, mucus, frozen wastewater or whatever else the virus is thought to be lurking in, clearing all the unnecessary stuff out of the sample, then converting the RNA – which is a single strand of genetic material – into DNA (the famous double-stranded helix). The DNA is then “amplified” in successive cycles until key bits of genetic material that are known to only exist in a particular virus are plentiful enough to be detected with a fluorescent probe.

Not highly specific 
 
In coronavirus testing, scientists typically screen for more than one gene. In this case, the researchers tested for three. They had a positive result for the March 2019 sample in one of the three genes tested – the RdRp gene. They screened for two regions of this gene and both were only detected around the 39th cycle of amplification. (PCR tests become less “specific” with increasing rounds of amplification. Scientists generally use 40 to 45 rounds of amplification.)

There are several explanations for this positive result. One is that SARS-CoV-2 is present in the sewage at a very low level. Another is that the test reaction was accidentally contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 in the laboratory. This sometimes happens in labs as positive samples are regularly being handled, and it can be difficult to prevent very small traces of positive sample contaminating others.

Another explanation is that there is other RNA or DNA in the sample that resembles the test target site enough for it to give a positive result at the 39th cycle of amplification.

Further tests need to be carried out to conclude that the sample contains SARS-CoV-2, and a finding of that magnitude would need to be replicated separately by independent laboratories.

Reasons to be circumspect 
 
A curious thing about this finding is that it disagrees with epidemiological data about the virus. The authors don’t cite reports of a spike in the number of respiratory disease cases in the local population following the date of the sampling.

Also, we know SARS-CoV-2 to be highly transmissible, at least in its current form. If this result is a true positive it suggests the virus was present in the population at a high enough incidence to be detected in an 800ml sample of sewage, but then not present at a high enough incidence to be detected for nine months, when no control measures were in place.

So, until further studies are carried out, it is best not to draw definitive conclusions.

(Claire Crossan is Research Fellow, Virology, Glasgow Caledonian University)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/was-coronavirus-really-in-europe-in-march-2019-141582">original article</a>) &nbsp;

By Claire Crossan The novel coronavirus – SARS-CoV-2 – may have been in Europe for longer than previously thought. Recent studies have suggested that it was circulating in Italy as early as December 2019.

By Claire Crossan The novel coronavirus – SARS-CoV-2 – may have been in Europe for longer than previously thought. Recent studies have suggested that it was circulating in Italy as early as December 2019. More surprisingly, researchers at the University of Barcelona found traces of the virus when testing untreated wastewater samples dated March 12, 2019. The study was recently published on a preprint server, medRxiv. The paper is currently being subject to critical review by outside experts in preparation for publication in a scientific journal. Until this process of peer review has been completed, though, the evidence needs to be treated with caution. So, how was the experiment conducted and what exactly did the scientists find? One of the early findings about SARS-CoV-2 is that it is found in the faeces of infected people. As the virus makes its way through the gut – where it can cause gastrointestinal symptoms – it loses its outer protein layer, but bits of genetic material called RNA survive the journey intact and are “shed” in faeces. At this point, it is no longer infectious – as far as current evidence tells us. But the fact that these bits of coronavirus RNA can be found in untreated wastewater (known as “influent”) is useful for tracking outbreaks. Indeed, they can predict where an outbreak is likely to occur a week to ten days before they show up in official figures – the reason being that people shed coronavirus before symptoms become evident. These “pre-symptomatic” people then have to get sick enough to be tested, get the results, and be admitted to a hospital as an official “case”, hence the week or so lag. As a result, many countries, including Spain, are now monitoring wastewater for traces of coronavirus. In this particular study, wastewater epidemiologists were examining frozen samples of influent between January 2018 and December 2019 to see when the virus made its debut in the city. They found evidence of the virus on January 15, 2020, 41 days before the first official case was declared on February 25, 2020. All the samples before this date were negative, except for a sample from March 12, 2019, which gave a positive result in their PCR test for coronavirus. PCR is the standard way of testing to see if someone currently has the disease. PCR involves getting samples of saliva, mucus, frozen wastewater or whatever else the virus is thought to be lurking in, clearing all the unnecessary stuff out of the sample, then converting the RNA – which is a single strand of genetic material – into DNA (the famous double-stranded helix). The DNA is then “amplified” in successive cycles until key bits of genetic material that are known to only exist in a particular virus are plentiful enough to be detected with a fluorescent probe. Not highly specific In coronavirus testing, scientists typically screen for more than one gene. In this case, the researchers tested for three. They had a positive result for the March 2019 sample in one of the three genes tested – the RdRp gene. They screened for two regions of this gene and both were only detected around the 39th cycle of amplification. (PCR tests become less “specific” with increasing rounds of amplification. Scientists generally use 40 to 45 rounds of amplification.) There are several explanations for this positive result. One is that SARS-CoV-2 is present in the sewage at a very low level. Another is that the test reaction was accidentally contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 in the laboratory. This sometimes happens in labs as positive samples are regularly being handled, and it can be difficult to prevent very small traces of positive sample contaminating others. Another explanation is that there is other RNA or DNA in the sample that resembles the test target site enough for it to give a positive result at the 39th cycle of amplification. Further tests need to be carried out to conclude that the sample contains SARS-CoV-2, and a finding of that magnitude would need to be replicated separately by independent laboratories. Reasons to be circumspect A curious thing about this finding is that it disagrees with epidemiological data about the virus. The authors don’t cite reports of a spike in the number of respiratory disease cases in the local population following the date of the sampling. Also, we know SARS-CoV-2 to be highly transmissible, at least in its current form. If this result is a true positive it suggests the virus was present in the population at a high enough incidence to be detected in an 800ml sample of sewage, but then not present at a high enough incidence to be detected for nine months, when no control measures were in place. So, until further studies are carried out, it is best not to draw definitive conclusions. (Claire Crossan is Research Fellow, Virology, Glasgow Caledonian University) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article)

Was coronavirus spreading in Europe in March 2019?

Countries have been balancing the need to reopen economies shattered by coronavirus shutdowns with the need to maintain sufficient measures to prevent a feared second wave.

The United States, Australia and Europe battled a resurgence of coronavirus cases as warnings mounted worldwide on Friday over reopening lockdowns too soon.

A major Australian city also faced a dangerous uptick in infections, while the pandemic also continues to pummel Latin America.

Beijing has partially lifted a weeks-long lockdown imposed in the Chinese capital to head off a feared second wave of coronavirus infections.

More than 4,80,000 people worldwide have died from COVID-19 since it emerged in China late last year and cases are expected to reach 10 million across the globe within the next week.

UNITED STATES

After hitting a two-month plateau, the rate of new cases is now soaring in southern and western states.

Texas has now been forced to halt its phased reopening.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-startup-creates-internet-connected-face-mask-for-coronavirus-new-normal-308792">Also read |&nbsp;Japanese startup creates internet-connected face mask for coronavirus new normal</a>

The United States recorded 37,667 cases and 692 deaths in 24 hours, with nearly 122,000 lives lost overall -- by far the highest confirmed toll in the world.

LATIN AMERICA

Brazil, the hardest-hit country in the region, had close to 55,000 deaths and 1.2 million infections, while Mexico on Thursday surpassed 25,000 fatalities.

UK

In Britain -- which has the worst death toll in Europe so far with 43,230 lives lost -- people were urged to abide by social distancing rules after tens of thousands of people descended on beaches during a heatwave.

The seaside resort of Bournemouth declared a major incident on Thursday after thousands flocked to its beach on the hottest day of the year.

Police also criticised the number of fans who gathered outside Liverpool's Anfield ground on Thursday night after the club secured the English Premier League football title for the first time in 30 years.

Health authorities recorded 1,109 new coronavirus infections in the previous 24 hours, bringing Ukraine's total to more than 41,000.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-half-year-into-coronavirus-pandemic-and-these-migrants-have-not-heard-about-covid-19-308551">Also read |&nbsp;A half-year into coronavirus pandemic, and these migrants have not heard about COVID-19</a>

AUSTRALIA

Supermarkets imposed purchase limits on toilet paper across the country Friday following panic buying by people rattled over a surge in coronavirus cases in Melbourne, the country's second-biggest city.

The successful containment now stands threatened by the 30 new cases confirmed overnight in Melbourne, the 10th straight day of double-digit rises in new cases in the city and surrounding Victoria state.

Airlines have also suffered, with the Dutch government announcing a 3.4 billion euro bailout for Air France-KLM, Australia's Qantas announcing it was cutting 6,000 staff and Germany's Lufthansa getting the EU's green light for a $10 billion state rescue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qantas-cutting-20-of-workforce-and-raising-capital-in-coronavirus-battle-308640">Also read |&nbsp;Qantas cutting 20% of workforce and raising capital in coronavirus battle</a>

CHINA

Eleven new virus cases across Beijing were announced on Friday, bringing the total number of infections in the capital since the June 11 outbreak to 280.&nbsp;

The lockdown was eased on Tuesday for seven apartment blocks after residents tested negative for the virus, officials said at a Friday briefing. The remaining blocks are still in lockdown. &nbsp;

Dozens of residential compounds across the city were shut down, with authorities rolling out a mass testing campaign to root out any remaining cases.&nbsp;

A vast majority of them are linked to the sprawling Xinfadi market in the city's south that supplies about 80 percent of Beijing's fresh produce and meat.

Food market workers and visitors, nearby residents, restaurant workers and delivery couriers have been the prime targets of mass testing so far as fears began to mount over the hygiene of Beijing's food supply.

The world meanwhile awaits a vaccine or treatment that authorities say is likely to take until at least early next year and probably longer.

(with inputs from AFP)

Countries have been balancing the need to reopen economies shattered by coronavirus shutdowns with the need to maintain sufficient measures to prevent a feared second wave.

Countries have been balancing the need to reopen economies shattered by coronavirus shutdowns with the need to maintain sufficient measures to prevent a feared second wave. The United States, Australia and Europe battled a resurgence of coronavirus cases as warnings mounted worldwide on Friday over reopening lockdowns too soon. A major Australian city also faced a dangerous uptick in infections, while the pandemic also continues to pummel Latin America. Beijing has partially lifted a weeks-long lockdown imposed in the Chinese capital to head off a feared second wave of coronavirus infections. More than 4,80,000 people worldwide have died from COVID-19 since it emerged in China late last year and cases are expected to reach 10 million across the globe within the next week. UNITED STATES After hitting a two-month plateau, the rate of new cases is now soaring in southern and western states. Texas has now been forced to halt its phased reopening. Also read | Japanese startup creates internet-connected face mask for coronavirus new normal The United States recorded 37,667 cases and 692 deaths in 24 hours, with nearly 122,000 lives lost overall -- by far the highest confirmed toll in the world. LATIN AMERICA Brazil, the hardest-hit country in the region, had close to 55,000 deaths and 1.2 million infections, while Mexico on Thursday surpassed 25,000 fatalities. UK In Britain -- which has the worst death toll in Europe so far with 43,230 lives lost -- people were urged to abide by social distancing rules after tens of thousands of people descended on beaches during a heatwave. The seaside resort of Bournemouth declared a major incident on Thursday after thousands flocked to its beach on the hottest day of the year. Police also criticised the number of fans who gathered outside Liverpool's Anfield ground on Thursday night after the club secured the English Premier League football title for the first time in 30 years. Health authorities recorded 1,109 new coronavirus infections in the previous 24 hours, bringing Ukraine's total to more than 41,000. Also read | A half-year into coronavirus pandemic, and these migrants have not heard about COVID-19 AUSTRALIA Supermarkets imposed purchase limits on toilet paper across the country Friday following panic buying by people rattled over a surge in coronavirus cases in Melbourne, the country's second-biggest city. The successful containment now stands threatened by the 30 new cases confirmed overnight in Melbourne, the 10th straight day of double-digit rises in new cases in the city and surrounding Victoria state. Airlines have also suffered, with the Dutch government announcing a 3.4 billion euro bailout for Air France-KLM, Australia's Qantas announcing it was cutting 6,000 staff and Germany's Lufthansa getting the EU's green light for a $10 billion state rescue. Also read | Qantas cutting 20% of workforce and raising capital in coronavirus battle CHINA Eleven new virus cases across Beijing were announced on Friday, bringing the total number of infections in the capital since the June 11 outbreak to 280. The lockdown was eased on Tuesday for seven apartment blocks after residents tested negative for the virus, officials said at a Friday briefing. The remaining blocks are still in lockdown. Dozens of residential compounds across the city were shut down, with authorities rolling out a mass testing campaign to root out any remaining cases. A vast majority of them are linked to the sprawling Xinfadi market in the city's south that supplies about 80 percent of Beijing's fresh produce and meat. Food market workers and visitors, nearby residents, restaurant workers and delivery couriers have been the prime targets of mass testing so far as fears began to mount over the hygiene of Beijing's food supply. The world meanwhile awaits a vaccine or treatment that authorities say is likely to take until at least early next year and probably longer. (with inputs from AFP)

US, Europe battle fresh coronavirus surges even as Beijing eases lockdown

EU countries have started to reopen their borders for neighbouring countries. However with the recent spike in number of cases in U.S. experts in Europe have advised against internation travel.

EU Countries reopening borders | Attempt to revive tourism | WION

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre.

"Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/covid-19-uk-to-begin-trials-of-no-swab-self-test-kits-307695" hreflang="en">COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits</a>

However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/non-essential-shops-reopen-in-uk-after-3-months-306080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule.

The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-to-announce-the-review-of-two-metre-social-distancing-review-soon-307278" hreflang="en">UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon</a>

If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4.

"Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people.

Starting July 4, the United Kingdom will revoke its mandatory two-metre social distancing rule which was put in place to ensure industries could restart work while maintaining social distancing among people. UK Prime Minister on TuesdayBoris Johnson announced that even though two metres is still the optimum distance, people unable to maintain it should at least stick to one metre. "Where it is possible to keep two metres apart, people should. But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one metre plus," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Also read: COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits However, many companies were opposed to the compulsory adherence to the rule, claiming it made running their businesses next to impossible. Johnson further added that restaurants, pubs, and hotels could reopen in July across the country, however he did assert on the need for “mitigation” in the absence of the social distancing rule. The country’s economy has suffered considerable damage owing to the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. Most non-essential services resumed last week. However, hospitality and leisure sectors will continue to reopen slowly. Also read: UK to announce the review of two-metre social distancing review soon If one-metre distancing and protective gear is ensured by patrons and business owners alike, the country has allowed complete reopening from July 4. "Given the significant fall in the prevalence of the virus we can change the two-metre social distancing rule from the 4th of July," Johnson told parliament. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

UK to denounce two-metre distancing rule starting July; pubs and restaurants to resume service

Archaeologists have discovered a wide&nbsp;circle&nbsp;of deep&nbsp;pits&nbsp;surrounding an ancient settlement&nbsp;near&nbsp;Stonehenge, opening up new lines of investigation into the origins and meaning of the mysterious, prehistoric monument.

Among Britain's most recognisable landmarks, the standing stones at&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;draw tourists from around the world as well as people searching for spiritual connections with the past. Their exact purpose remains unknown to scientists.

The new discovery, by a team of archaeologists from several universities, shows a 2-km (1.2-mile) wide&nbsp;circle&nbsp;of shafts surrounding a settlement at Durrington Walls, which also included a henge, or circular structure, made of timber posts.

The site is located about 3.2 km northeast of&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;and evidence suggests the&nbsp;pits&nbsp;date back to the same period, some 4,500 years ago.

"As the place where the builders of&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;lived and feasted, Durrington Walls is key to unlocking the story of the widerStonehenge&nbsp;landscape," said archaeologist Nick Snashall of the National Trust, the body that runs the&nbsp;Stonehenge&nbsp;site.

"This astonishing discovery offers us new insights into the lives and beliefs of our Neolithic ancestors," he said.

The&nbsp;circle&nbsp;of&nbsp;pits&nbsp;is significantly larger than any comparable prehistoric monument in Britain. Researchers have&nbsp;found&nbsp;20 shafts, but estimate there may have been more than 30 originally. Each one is about 5 metres deep and 10 metres across.

The discovery was made without the need for excavations, using remote sensing technology and sampling.

The archaeologists said the precise and sophisticated way in which the&nbsp;pits&nbsp;were positioned suggests that the early inhabitants of Britain used a tally or counting system to track pacing across long distances.

"The size of the shafts and circuit surrounding Durrington Walls is without precedent in the UK," said Vince Gaffney, a professor of archaeology at the University of Bradford and one of the lead researchers on the project.

He said the discovery demonstrated "the capacity and desire of Neolithic communities to record their cosmological belief systems in ways, and at a scale, that we had never previously anticipated."

Archaeologists have discovered a wide circle of deep pits surrounding an ancient settlement near Stonehenge, opening up new lines of investigation into the origins and meaning of the mysterious, prehistoric monument.

Archaeologists have discovered a wide circle of deep pits surrounding an ancient settlement near Stonehenge, opening up new lines of investigation into the origins and meaning of the mysterious, prehistoric monument. Among Britain's most recognisable landmarks, the standing stones at Stonehenge draw tourists from around the world as well as people searching for spiritual connections with the past. Their exact purpose remains unknown to scientists. The new discovery, by a team of archaeologists from several universities, shows a 2-km (1.2-mile) wide circle of shafts surrounding a settlement at Durrington Walls, which also included a henge, or circular structure, made of timber posts. The site is located about 3.2 km northeast of Stonehenge and evidence suggests the pits date back to the same period, some 4,500 years ago. "As the place where the builders of Stonehenge lived and feasted, Durrington Walls is key to unlocking the story of the widerStonehenge landscape," said archaeologist Nick Snashall of the National Trust, the body that runs the Stonehenge site. "This astonishing discovery offers us new insights into the lives and beliefs of our Neolithic ancestors," he said. The circle of pits is significantly larger than any comparable prehistoric monument in Britain. Researchers have found 20 shafts, but estimate there may have been more than 30 originally. Each one is about 5 metres deep and 10 metres across. The discovery was made without the need for excavations, using remote sensing technology and sampling. The archaeologists said the precise and sophisticated way in which the pits were positioned suggests that the early inhabitants of Britain used a tally or counting system to track pacing across long distances. "The size of the shafts and circuit surrounding Durrington Walls is without precedent in the UK," said Vince Gaffney, a professor of archaeology at the University of Bradford and one of the lead researchers on the project. He said the discovery demonstrated "the capacity and desire of Neolithic communities to record their cosmological belief systems in ways, and at a scale, that we had never previously anticipated."

'Astonishing' giant circle of pits found near Stonehenge

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