24/03/20 COVID-19 Global News Update

City watchdog the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) today ruled out a ban on short-selling saying there was no evidence it was behind recent market falls. Countries such as Italy and Spain have introduced restrictions on short-selling to try and help prevent market volatility as the coronavirus pandemic causes economic chaos.

The Scottish government is demanding more support for self-employed workers affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

Shoppers will be able to spend £45 using contactless payments, up from £30, from 1 April. The measure was already being considered by the industry but its introduction has been brought forward due to the coronavirus pandemic to reduce the need for physical contact.

HM Revenue & Customs has issued advice to British expatriates stuck in the UK due to coronavirus over tax residence rules. The tax authority will allow special treatment to be given to expatriates that face risking their non-residence tax status through being stuck in the UK longer than anticipated.

Boris Johnson ramped up the nation’s coronavirus measures on Monday, enforcing a nationwide lockdown after chairing an emergency Cobra committee. This article details of the policies Johnson announced, which took effect immediately.

A summary of the biggest developments in the global coronavirus outbreak.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said a virtual lockdown in France imposed to slow the spread of the coronavirus could last several more weeks and that his government was tightening restrictions even further. He said citizens from Tuesday would only be able to exercise once a day, within 1 kilometre of their home, and that burial ceremonies would be restricted to 20 people. Open-air markets should close, he added.

U.N. chief Antonio Guterres said on Monday the world body wants $2 billion to help poor countries combat coronavirus and warned that a massive, coordinated package would also be needed to deal with the pandemic’s social and economic impact around the world.

An emergency law to tackle the coronavirus pandemic will be debated in the Senedd later, but by a limited number of AMs. The coronavirus bill will allow Welsh ministers to detain and isolate people, stop mass gatherings and close premises.

The Northern Ireland Assembly is to debate legislation on emergency powers to force people to stay at home. On Monday night the prime minister introduced the Coronavirus Bill, which introduces sweeping measures aimed at preventing the spread of the disease.

This document sets out guidance for apprentices, employers, training providers and assessment organisations in response to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Transport regulators give strong guidance on how to maintain services following Government advice.

Good Evening, The coronavirus is the biggest threat this country has faced for decades – and this country is not alone. All over the world we are seeing the devastating impact of this invisible killer. And so tonight I want to update you on the latest steps we are taking ...

Operational guidance for further education (FE) providers on maintaining education and skills training provision.

The single most important action we can all take, in fighting coronavirus, is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.

Vehicle approval tests are suspended for up to 3 months due to coronavirus - but tests are available for vehicles that are critical to the COVID-19 response.

This document provides guidance on the closure of all non-essential businesses and premises as part of further social distancing measures.

The UK’s foreign secretary Dominic Raab today called for all British travellers to return home while international travel was still possible amid the coronavirus pandemic.