Edelweiss. Canadian actor Christopher Plummer, best known for his role as captain von trapp in The Sound Of Music, has died at the age of 91. President biden has said the latest monthlyjobs report, shows the us economy is still in trouble, as it remains in the teeth of the pandemic. He said a 1. 9 dollar trillion Stimulus Package would help the vaccination effort, and alleviate americans� suffering. Speaking with the treasury secretary, janet yellen, and Vice President Kamala Harris by his side, mr biden appealed to Congressional Republicans to act urgently to turn his Coronavirus Relief measures into law. He said it would keep families out of poverty, and prevent long Term Economic damage to the nation. I see enormous pain in this country. A lot of folks out of work, a lot of folks going hungry, staring at the ceiling at night wondering, what am i going to do tomorrow . A lot of folks trying to figure out how to keep theirjobs and take care of their children. A lot of folks reaching the breaking point. Suicides are up, Mental Health needs are increasing, violence against women and children is increasing. A lot of folks are losing hope. I believe the American People are looking right now to their government for help, to do ourjob, to not let them down. So im going to act, im going to act fast. Earlier, we spoke to our washington correspondent, gary odonoghue, to hear what he thought, about what the president had to say. Well, its pretty tough talk. Its pretty, you know, determined talk about his covid relief package, his 1. 9 trillion. But amidst all of that, there is clearly room for maneuver. Hed wanted to get some republican support for this. At the moment, he doesnt have that, but they are not closing the door on that. Some of the things they are standing particularly tough on, like this 1,400 stimulus check to americans, he is saying im not going to go any lower than that, but in some ways, the argument is not about the actual level of it but about who gets it. So in some ways, he is sounding tough on the things that he can sound tough on whilst allowing for some wiggle room elsewhere. Clearly, they believe that the jobs numbers today give them a bigger argument, if you like, a wider argument for pushing something through on this scale when it, obviously, a lot of republicans have argued for something a lot smaller. Gary odonoghue. Latest figures in the uk show almost half the Uk Population 32 Million People should be vaccinated against coronavirus by may. The government says it expects all adults over the age of 50, as well as the clinically vulnerable and those working in health and social care, to have received their firstjab by then. The uks medicines regulator, says the latest Research Shows side effects from all the approved vaccines are minor and dont last long. As cases continue to fall, politicians are divided over how soon restrictions should be lifted. Heres our medical editor, fergus walsh. This is an immunisation production line. At epsom racecourse in surrey, theyre doing 1,000 covid jabs a day. The government is so confident itll reach its target of vaccinating the over 70s and Front Line Health Workers by mid february it is now looking to the future. My goal is i want us to be able to offer a vaccine to all over 50s thats priority groups one to nine by may there is an awful lot we have to get right to hit that goal, and obviously supply is the most difficult of all of those, but we are currently on track for that. You might get a sore arm for a couple of days. New Data Confirms that side effects from Covid Vaccines are mostly mild, which should reinforce public confidence. The 70 and 80 somethings in epsom were taking it all in their stride. They said there may be some side effects but ive never, ever had side effects with any vaccines so im not expecting any. My wife has had hers already, and she just had a 24 hour soreness and thats all, but she is perfectly 0k afterwarss, so im not concerned, no. It doesnt hurt and i feel so secure now. Medical regulators are constantly monitoring Covid Vaccine safety. Theyve analysed 6. 9 million doses given up to the 24th of january. There were 22,820 reports of suspected side effects, which equates to about three per 1000 doses. The vast majority were mild and included sore arms, headache, tiredness or fever, that generally lasted a couple of days. There were no unexpected serious adverse reactions, so the benefits of the covid 19 vaccines far outweigh the risks, and anyone who gets that invitation to go along for a jab should not hesitate. You can be confident that these are very safe vaccines. All medicines, including vaccines, can cause side effects. So the results of this Safety Monitoring are very reassuring for those who have had their covid jab and for the tens of millions of us yet to get our invite. New Research Shows the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine protects well against the more contagious kent variant, but new variants are inevitable. So the government has signed up with a german biotech to develop future Covid Vaccines to try to keep pace in the arms race against the virus. Fergus walsh, bbc news. Elsewhere in europe, the Spanish Health authorities have limited the use of the Oxford Astrazeneca virus to those under the age of 55. The move echoes earlier decisions by a Growing Number of countries that have restricted the vaccine� s distribution, despite the European Medicines Agency approving its use late last week for all adults. The age controversy compounds a row over a shortfall in deliveries from astrazeneca that has forced the eu to recalibrate its vaccination strategy. Russia has announced the expulsion of diplomats from sweden, germany and poland, accusing them of taking part in illegal protests last month, against the jailing of the kremlin critic, Alexei Navalny. But sweden has denied this. A statement from the Swedish Foreign ministry said. We refute russias claim that the diplomat participated in the demonstration. Mr navalny was jailed for nearly three years this week, for violating his parole conditions, and was back in court today, this time on separate defamation charges. It comes as the eus top diplomat, josep borrel, is in moscow the first visit there by a senior eu envoy since 2017. Speaking before the expulsions were announced, mr borrell said hed called for mr navalny� s release. My visit coincides with with the arrest and sentencing of Alexei Navalny and the arrest of 1000 demonstrators. As you can expect, i have conveyed to the minister our deep concern and reiterated our appealfor his and the launch of a investigation into his poisoning. In response, the Russian Foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, criticised the European Union as an unreliable partner, because of its threat to impose sanctions on moscow following the imprisonment of mr navalny. Translation we have become used to the fact that the eu is increasingly resorting to unilateral restrictions that have no legitimate basis. We are going on with our lives on the assumption that that you is an unreliable partner, at least at this stage. Our moscow correspondent, Sarah Rainsford, says the timing of the expulsions announced by moscow, was not a coincidence. Quite a message Tojosep Borrel and to the eu more broadly, of course, from russias Foreign Ministry. Apparently, this was announced during the meeting, but was only made public afterwards. So, Ifjosep Borrel came here with a strong message for russia telling the Foreign Ministry that the eu condemns the treatment of Alexei Navalny, calling for his release, even, saying there must be an independent investigation into his poisoning. What he got in response was a big shrub from Sergei Lavrov during that press Conference Following the meeting itself, and then this statement, diplomats from three European Countries being expelled straightaway. Allegedly for attending a Pro Navalny Protest on the 23rd of january, so the first of a wave of mass rallies across russia calling for mr navalny� s release. Now, of course, the countries involved have said that these are unfounded claims, that there is no truth to them at all, but, you know, it is very strange, very interesting signaling from russia, as i say, at a meeting in which both sides were talking about the difficult relationship but trying to focus, at least to some extent, in the areas in which they could cooperate. That was Sarah Rainsford speaking earlier. We willjust bring you some news thats come to us concerning a conversation thats been had between the Prime Minister, borisjohnson, who has had a conversation with the french president emmanuel macron. The leaders, we understand, discuss the fight against coronavirus emphasizing the Important Role that World Leaders will play in ensuring that vaccines are rolled out effectively. Also agreeing that a Successful Vaccination Programme will require collaboration between governments. Borisjohnson also outlining the uks priorities regarding g7 and its presidency, including working together to build back from the pandemic. Also, Climate Change, tackling Climate Change ahead of top 26, which is due to take place in the uk come november. Copped 26. Going on to say that this is part of a statement from a Downing Street spokesperson. The Prime Minister also welcomed the agreement of the uk eu also welcomed the agreement of the uk eu trade deal in december saying that the departure from the eu offered a huge opportunity to deepen and widen bilateral relationships with france and the leaders are looking forward to realize that particular opportunity and also finally discussing International Issues including iran and libya and russia agreeing that european leadership from the uk, france and others continues to be instrumental in making the world safer and more secure. Finally, just agreeing that cooperation remains a crucial key in tackling the challenges ahead. Thats coming to us from Downing Street following a call with president macron. Uk ministers have defended the governments plan to quarantine travellers in hotels, when they return to britain, from covid variant hotspots. The rules will come into effect from the 15th of february, and mean passengers arriving from 33 countries, will have to stay in a hotel for ten nights at their own expense. The opposition labour party, says the scheme should be extended to all international travellers. Heres our transport correspondent, caroline davies. Running a covid secure hotel is not business as usual. On top of cleaning and virus killing air purifying machines, this hotel reassessed all of its safety protocols, and finally got insurance to have covid positive guests staying here. It took us approximately three months of satisfying our insurers with all the Risk Assessments and method statements to get this in place. So do i think they will be able to turn it round in ten days . I doubt it very much. This is the sort of Room Quarantine Guests could stay in. According to the guidelines, quarantine would last 11 days. The hotel would have to provide three meals and have ensuite facilities. Guests staying here would have two covid tests during the course of their stay. But some of the guidance has been questioned. The corridors of this hotel are monitored by cctv, but the guidelines do say that if you want to go out for a breath of fresh air or a cigarette, you can, but you just need to be accompanied by security. As well as being time consuming, this hotelier is not convinced it would be safe. Our virologist would not allow it. Once the person is in the room they have to stay there self isolating for ten days. Because the hotel isnt by an airport, the hoteliers dont know if it will be chosen by the government. Quarantine hotels have been in place in australia since march 2020. Welcome, everyone. Im so happy to. Last week vera van der slot and her australian husband spent two weeks in a perth hotel room Teaching Online yoga classes. We dont have a balcony or a window that opens. The money side of it is not the best. Its quite a lot of money. But it also costs money to put us up in a hotel. Their stay cost nearly £1,900. The uk estimate is currently just over £1,000. But some hotels are already warning it could cost more. There are no official guidelines yet for airlines and airports. In hong kong, arrivals are given a Security Bracelet that they have to wear for their three week Hotel Quarantine stay, and theyre tested before being bussed to their hotel. The uk procedures arent likely to look like this, but there are still questions. Today, Heathrow Airport said, our offer to support remains, but time is ticking and this is a very complex initiative. A number ten spokesperson said, no formal contracts have been agreed yet, and it was vital the government got this right from the start. There is nowjust over a week before the scheme is due to begin and the first guests could arrive. Caroline davies, bbc news. Stay with us on bbc news, still to come we look back at the life of the actor Christopher Plummer, who has died aged 91. The government has been defending its plans to quarantine people arriving in the uk, in a scheme due to begin in 10 days time. People travelling from countries with high Infection Rates will have to stay in a hotel at their own expense, in an effort to control the spread of new variants of coronavirus. Labour says the scheme should extend to all international travellers, but the Health Secretary says every care will be taken to ensure the right people are being quarantined. We will be vigilant in making sure that the Hotel Quarantine that we are introducing applies to the right countries where we see these new variants. And we have a programme to have surveillance right across the world working with International Partners to make sure we can spot where these new variants pop up, like brazil and south africa, that we have seen so far, and make sure that we can keep people here safe with the new Hotel Quarantine. This is bbc news, the latest headlines. Catherine downs has all the sport. England captain joe root will be looking to beat his 128 in the first test between india and england in chennai on saturday. Root became the third englishman to score a 100 in his 100th test as his side built up a promising 263 3. Ifeel like im in good form, and i need to cash in on it, i think. Over the course of my career, i havent always made big scores so i need to be going and doing that and currently thats really pleasing. You know, the challenge is i keep getting myself in positions to make. Ive got to keep me taking them. We will win more games if im doing that. Good days work for him today. Theres been a Frank Exchange of frank views in the Premier League News Conferences on friday. Pep guardiola has said he expected betterfrom jurgen klopp than to indulge in mind games before Manchester Citys Premier League trip to liverpool on sunday. Klopp has suggested that a Covid Outbreak at City Over Christmas led to guardiolas side having a game postponed and two weeks off, helping their title bid. We didnt have a break. I think city had a two week for covid reasons. Its really tough. Its a tough year, its a tough season. I know, for some teams, it looks like lesser, but for us, obviously, for the reasons, you know, its tough. He knows its not true. Come on nobody he knows its not true. Come on nobody in he knows its not true. Come on nobody in the Premier League had two weeks nobody in the Premier League had two weeks off nobody in the Premier League had two weeks off. Nobody. The situation cant weeks off. Nobody. The situation cant be weeks off. Nobody. The situation cant be for the purpose, but i didnt cant be for the purpose, but i didnt expect he would do it. I thought didnt expect he would do it. I thought thats not the type of guy, but if thought thats not the type of guy, but if you thought thats not the type of guy, but if you did it, ok. Maybe i was wrong thats the big game on sunday. Three months after it ended, the six nations begins again this weekend. Wales play ireland on sunday, but on saturday its italy versus france, while england prepare to defend their title against scotland in the 150th calcutta cup. Patrick gearey reports. To fully appreciate the backstory of behind england and scotland when you would have to hit rewind for some time from a centre and have takes in four kings, to queens, and hundreds of warriors. Its been throwing, sometimes boring, but into this year it has been not so quite for some remove the atmosphere of twickenham and you can perhaps remove some of its history. Scotland have not one there since 1983. We do know it is an opportunity because the first game, and brought it is a first opportunity with no crowds what you had to take the opportunity. It becomes more of a neutral venue, but you have to make sure you play rugby, not wait for any crowds noise to help you. His softly spoken confidence has a subbasement scotland won the last one of their best back, england may have a coat of winter press. Although they face the champions, england may have a coat of winter rust. Five of their team play for saracens and the second year, and havent had a game in months. Their coachis havent had a game in months. Their coach is well warmed up. He was into the scottish, how much it means he was into the scottish, how much it means to he was into the scottish, how much it means to them, its the biggest game it means to them, its the biggest game of it means to them, its the biggest game of the year, the most important game game of the year, the most important game of game of the year, the most important game of the game of the year, the most important game of the year, the most important game of the year, they are playing for trophies. Thats a huge expectation for them. Maybe, with 15 minutes expectation for them. Maybe, with 15 minutes to expectation for them. Maybe, with 15 minutes to go in the game, the expectation is when to get pretty heavy expectation is when to get pretty heavy for expectation is when to get pretty heavy for them. In expectation is when to get pretty heavy for them. Expectation is when to get pretty heavy for them. In truth, both sides will deal with heavy for them. In truth, both sides will deal with a heavy for them. In truth, both sides will deal with a different heavy for them. In truth, both sides will deal with a different sort heavy for them. In truth, both sides will deal with a different sort of will deal with a different sort of pressure, one from within and not in part from the stands. Although twickenham remains weirdly empty, the calcutta cup can never feel hollow. Patrick geary, bbc news. Thats all the sport for now. Well have more for you on the bbc news channel later on. Catherine, thank you very much. Us president , joe biden, has endorsed the effort to return to the moon, that was initiated under his predecessor, donald trump. The Artemis Programme, plans to land the first woman and next man on the moon by 202a. Im joined now by michael wall, a Senior Writer at space. Com. Hejoins us. He joins us. Thank hejoins us. Thank you he joins us. Thank you forjoining us here on bbc news. Its taken 50 years, and why return to the moon . Yeah, well, this is primarily an effortjust to prepare ourselves yeah, well, this is primarily an effort just to prepare ourselves for taking that next Big Leap Ongoing On to mars. Thats what nasa sees the Artemis Programme being, teaching us all the skills and techniques needed to actually send astronauts to mars, which it wants to do in the 2030s. Two they have enough money for this . We know that there is a lot of cooperation and a bit of a space race going on. Who is involved . How much is accosting . Much is accosting . Yes, that is alwa s much is accosting . Yes, that is always the much is accosting . Yes, that is always the big much is accosting . Yes, that is always the big question. Much is accosting . Yes, that is always the big question. Whenever you want to do Something Big in space, do we have enough money . Its really unclear. Theres a bit of budget battle going. Like the previoUs Administration, they asked for about 3. 3 billion just to help develop the Landing Systems that will get people down onto the moon. But they only got about 850 million from congress, which actually appropriates funds. So that there is the timeline in question. We dont know if 2024 is like a real viable goal. But what we just heard from the biden administration, that they do support the Artemis Programme. I mean, it gives us some confidence that its going to happen, maybe not soon, but it is going to happen. Very, very quickly, how Many Missions are going to take place before they set foot on the moon . There are two test flights that are going to come, and those are scheduled for 2021 later this year and 2023, and that 2023 mission will actually send astronauts around the moon. That will be the first crude mission in the programme and then 2024 is when they will touch down. We will see if it happens on that timeline. , ~ we will see if it happens on that timeline. ,. , timeline. Very exciting times. Unfortunately, timeline. Very exciting times. Unfortunately, we timeline. Very exciting times. Unfortunately, we have timeline. Very exciting times. Unfortunately, we have run i timeline. Very exciting times. | unfortunately, we have run out timeline. Very exciting times. Unfortunately, we have run out of time. A thank you very much there. The canadian actor Christopher Plummer best known for his role as captain von trapp in the Oscar Winning musical, The Sound Of Music, has died at home in conneticut, at the age of 91. His manager said he had touched all our hearts through his art and humanity. Daniella relph looks back at his life. These are a few of my favourite things when the dog bites. Christopher plummer, the noble, uptight captain von trapp, whose heart is melted by music and fraulein maria. Hello. Fraulein, did i not tell you that bedtime is to be strictly observed in this house . Well, the children were upset by the storm, the singing may have been dubbed, but plummer brought depth and dignity to the love story and von trapps implacable opposition to the nazis. But while The Sound Of Music made him an icon, he struggled with its sentimentality and famously called it the sound of mucus. Yes, i did say that, but so did we all. We alljoked about The Sound Of Music. You have to when you do something very delicate and sentimental and coy. In order to avoid being sentimental and coy, you have to joke about it and see the funny side of it. He was born in canada to a wealthy family, thought of being a concert pianist, but was drawn to the stage. His henry v drew comparison with olivier. You told me once you never heard the gods laughing. That theatricality works in big screen epics. Listen. Like the fall of the roman empire. Do you need a drink, Rudyard Kipling . As Rudyard Kipling in the man who would be king, he proved he could play complex characters. Dont you know me . No, i dont know you. In his 80s, he picked up an oscar as a man coming out at the end of his life. Andy, where did you get these . And became the oldest ever nominee playing john paul getty. Everything has a price. The great struggle in life is coming to grips with what that price is. Edelweiss. Christopher plummer, a huge presence on stage and screen for more than 60 years, famous for the one part he hated, but master of so many others. Christopher plummer, whos died at the age of 91. You are watching bbc news. There is plenty more coming up. You can get me on social media. Do stay with us. Good evening. Weve seen heavy snowfall over recent days across the northern half of scotland, and more of us are going to be seeing that wintry weather arriving through the weekend. It is going to be turning colder across the board. Were going to see low pressure becoming established down to the south east of the uk. Thats going to open the doors for these really Cold Easterly Winds to be driving in. So, bringing not only some disruptive snowfall in the east, but also a significant wind chill. Look, its going to feel around about 6 or 7 degrees through sunday and into monday as well. For the here and now, weve still got an Amber Warning for heavy snow across the northern half of scotland, mainly over Higher Ground, but increasingly that snow will start to fall to lower levels, too. Theres also a lot of heavy rain across the south east of scotland, north east england, too. Elsewhere across england and wales, some heavy showers continuing through the course of tonight. Could be some hail mixed in with some of those heavy downpours, too. Clearing skies and light winds down towards the South West Of England and wales, so some mists and fog and also some icy stretches forming here through the course of tonight into early saturday. So, lets take a look at saturday. Quite a bit of dry weather for northern ireland, perhaps one or two lighter showers, a bit of sunshine, too, for parts of southern and South West England and wales. Well continue to see rain showers in parts of eastern, North Eastern england. Heavy snow again over the Higher Ground of scotland falling to lower levels later on, and some of that snow also pushing over the Higher Ground of northern england. So, the pennines, for instance, seeing a fair bit of snow through saturday. But its not until the overnight period that we see the really cold air moving in across the board, these Cold Easterly Winds, and thats going to drive in some very persistent and heavy snowfall for parts of east anglia and the south east moving through the day on sunday, too. Temperature wise, at best only about 2 4 degrees, but feeling subzero when you add on that wind chill. And weve got an Amber Warning in force from the met office from parts of norfolk down towards kent for that heavy snowfall. Widely 5 10 centimetres expected, could be as much as 20 centimetres, and itll be blowing in on that brisk easterly wind, so blizzard conditions possible. Into monday, a similar sort of day. Again, that easterly wind driving in some heavy snow showers to parts of Eastern England and eastern scotland. Further west, you should stay mostly dry if somewhat cloudy, but its going to be a very cold day once again on monday. Temperatures a degree or two either side of freezing, but feeling much colder than that when you add on the wind chill. All the warnings are on our website. Bye bye. This is bbc world news. The headlines President Biden says he needs to act fast to push a huge new Economic Relief package through congress. He says the Latestjobs Report shows the us economy is still in trouble due to the pandemic. European leaders have responded angrily to russias decision to expel three diplomats, one each from germany, sweden and poland. Moscow accuses them ofjoining unauthorised protests in Support Ofjailed Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny. The uk government says its on track to offer a Coronavirus Vaccine to almost half the population, 32 Million People, by may. It expects all over 50s to have received their firstjab by then. The canadian actor Christopher Plummer has died at the age of 91 after a career spanning six decades. He was best known for his role as captain von trapp in the Oscar Winning musical The Sound Of Music. You are watching bbc news. Lets return to the news that latest figures in the uk show almost half the Uk Population, 32 Million People, should be vaccinated against coronavirus by may. The government says it expects all adults over the age of 50, as well as the clinically vulnerable and those working in health and social care to have received their firstjab by then. Lets talk to dr helen wimalarathna, Molecular Epidemiologist at the university of buckingham. What do you make of this deadline of may . Is irrefutable . It what do you make of this deadline of may . Is irrefutable . May . Is irrefutable . It does like the vaccination may . Is irrefutable . It does like the vaccination rollout may . Is irrefutable . It does like the vaccination rollout is may . Is irrefutable . It does like the vaccination rollout is going | the Vaccination Roll Out is going really well. To be fair, the Vaccination Roll Out has been the high point in the whole response in this country. We have seen a lot of mishaps and failures along the way but we have a good course to be realistic about the Vaccination Roll Out. Talking of deadlines and dates, we need this sort of date at the moment. Not dates for arbitrary reopening, we need dates from we can expect to have the maximum protection in the population. And expect to have the maximum protection in the population. And by maximum protection, protection in the population. And by maximum protection, we protection in the population. And by maximum protection, we talking protection in the population. And by i maximum protection, we talking about Herd Immunity here, are we not . Yes. Herd immunity here, are we not . Yes, we are. Herd immunity here, are we not . Yes, we are when Herd Immunity here, are we not . Yes, we are when we Herd Immunity here, are we not . Yes, we are. When we are Herd Immunity here, are we not . Yes we are. When we are looking at vaccinating individuals currently who are at the highest level of risk themselves, we are still working on themselves, we are still working on the basis that it protects those individuals that receive the vaccination. However there has been good for luminary data coming out of Boston University and has not been yet Peer Reviewed but strongly suggests that the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine can contribute to the reduction of infection and therefore the reduction of transmission. So that will feed into Herd Immunity. We need a very high proportion of the population to be vaccinated for that to be beneficial at the population level. That to be beneficial at the population level. That to be beneficial at the oulation level. ~. ,. ,. , ~ that to be beneficial at the oulation level. ~. ,. ,~. , population level. What you make of the spanish population level. What you make of the Spanish Health population level. What you make of the Spanish Health authorities population level. What you make of the Spanish Health authorities whol the Spanish Health authorities who are suggesting or advising that we of the Oxford Astrazeneca to those under the age of 55 . What exactly are the concerns . Are the concerns . There has been some discussion are the concerns . There has been some discussion about are the concerns . There has been some discussion about this are the concerns . There has been some discussion about this in are the concerns . There has been i some discussion about this in europe and i understand deviant regulatory authorities have a different approach. So its true tonight the older people, over 65 is recruited to the oxford study at a later point, so we have less follow up data on the older age groups which necessarily means that we have broader Confidence Intervals which means we are less certain about how efficacious the vaccine was in the clinical trials. However all the data coming out of the uk, israel and other places they have been rolling out the vaccine shows good evidence that it is very effective in the older age groups. find evidence that it is very effective in the older age groups. And what is the modelling in the older age groups. And what is the modelling showing in the older age groups. And what is the modelling showing around in the older age groups. And what is the modelling showing around these variants that are circulating in the fact they continue to mutate . One are the concerns . It is fact they continue to mutate . One are the concerns . Are the concerns . It is very concerning are the concerns . It is very concerning and are the concerns . It is very concerning and what are the concerns . It is very concerning and what we are the concerns . It is very| concerning and what we are are the concerns . It is very concerning and what we are happy about the vexing real document we must not get carried away because it is really critical at this stage. We have some variance including the wonders of africa and its possible the next generation mutation with a kent variant which are likely not to be inhibited so readily by the vaccines they have already been developed. So we need to understand that viruses do mutate all the time. Thats what they do. And the more we give the virus the chance to replicate, that means the more we give it the chance to transmit in the population and the more variance we are going to see. And it does become very dangerous. We have to get the levels right down so that we can really reduce that possibility. Thank you very much for your time, doctor, thank you. Imjoined by adam finn, Professor Of Paediatrics at Bristol University and a member of the governmentsjoint committee on vaccination and immunisation. Hes speaking to us in a personal capacity. Thank you forjoining us here on bbc news. First off, this drop in the rate of transmissions, what are your thoughts on that . Thoughts on that . Nearly all the vaccines that thoughts on that . Nearly all the vaccines that we thoughts on that . Nearly all the vaccines that we use thoughts on that . Nearly all the vaccines that we use in thoughts on that . Nearly all the vaccines that we use in humans| thoughts on that . Nearly all the i vaccines that we use in humans do this vaccines that we use in humans do this they vaccines that we use in humans do this. They dontjust protect vaccines that we use in humans do this. They dont just protect the individual. I think youre that asking individual. I think youre that asking but individual. I think youre that asking but the vaccines doing that. They dont asking but the vaccines doing that. They dont disrupt that the individuals who were immunised with they reduce their infectiousness to others they reduce their infectiousness to others so they reduce their infectiousness to others. So we have all along hoped and somewhat expected that these vaccines and somewhat expected that these vaccines were capable of doing this to an vaccines were capable of doing this to an extent and we are now seeing data that to an extent and we are now seeing data that confirms that. So thats good data that confirms that. So thats good news. Data that confirms that. So thats good news data that confirms that. So thats aood news. ,. ,. , good news. How easy is it to modify . We have heard good news. How easy is it to modify . We have heard of good news. How easy is it to modify . We have heard of the good news. How easy is it to modify . We have heard of the possibility good news. How easy is it to modify . We have heard of the possibility of. We have heard of the possibility of boosters come members specially against the very inference of africa. Is that a tricky procedure . I think the best model for this is what i think the best model for this is what we i think the best model for this is what we do every year with flu vaccines what we do every year with flu vaccines, so they are several different vaccines, so they are several different viruses that cause the flu. Different viruses that cause the flu they different viruses that cause the flu. They constantly change. So we have to flu. They constantly change. So we have to constantly be formal at the vaccines have to constantly be formal at the vaccines every year to try and keep up vaccines every year to try and keep up with vaccines every year to try and keep up with them. Sometimes we do it more up with them. Sometimes we do it more successfully than others but they work more successfully than others but they work reasonably well. And i think they work reasonably well. And i think as they work reasonably well. And i think as we are seeing immunity increasing think as we are seeing immunity increasing in the population as a result increasing in the population as a result of increasing in the population as a result of both infection and now vaccination, the pressure on the virus vaccination, the pressure on the virus is vaccination, the pressure on the virus is going to go up in the virus is going virus is going to go up in the virus is going to virus is going to go up in the virus is going to change. So we will have to reformulate the vaccines, and that is to reformulate the vaccines, and that is doable and it wont mean starting that is doable and it wont mean starting from scratch and going to the whole starting from scratch and going to the whole process of doing phase three the whole process of doing phase three studies all over again. They will be three studies all over again. They will be re formulated and need to be tested will be re formulated and need to be tested to will be re formulated and need to be tested to make sure that they are usable tested to make sure that they are usable but tested to make sure that they are usable but then they will be able to be used usable but then they will be able to be used quite rapidly. What usable but then they will be able to be used quite rapidly. Usable but then they will be able to be used quite rapidly. What is to be done and what be used quite rapidly. What is to be done and what can be used quite rapidly. What is to be done and what can be be used quite rapidly. What is to be done and what can be done be used quite rapidly. What is to be done and what can be done about i done and what can be done about increasing the uptake of vaccines within the Bame Community . I think we need to make within the Bame Community . I think we need to make sure within the Bame Community . I think we need to make sure first within the Bame Community . I think we need to make sure first about. We need to make sure first about making we need to make sure first about making Vaccines Available to those communities in an easy and straightforward way. I think we need to not straightforward way. I think we need to notiumb straightforward way. I think we need to notjump to straightforward way. I think we need to not jump to the conclusion that people to not jump to the conclusion that people from those communitiesjust dont want people from those communitiesjust dont want to be vaccinated. And then dont want to be vaccinated. And then thats dont want to be vaccinated. And then thats the only reason. It is concerning then thats the only reason. It is concerning that we are seeing lower uptake concerning that we are seeing lower uptake rates from people from black, asian uptake rates from people from black, asian and uptake rates from people from black, asian and minority ethnic populations. When you do everything we can populations. When you do everything we can to populations. When you do everything we can to make those vaccines we canto make those vaccines readily we can to make those vaccines readily available to those people. Well readily available to those people. Welliust readily available to those people. Welljustjump in there because the obvious question there is why are they not be made available . What is they not be made available . What is theissue they not be made available . What is the issue there . Im they not be made available . What is the issue there . The issue there . Im not saying that the re not the issue there . Im not saying that theyre not but the issue there . Im not saying that theyre not but im the issue there . Im not saying that theyre not but im just the issue there . Im not saying that theyre not but im just saying the issue there . Im not saying that theyre not but im just saying need | theyre not but im just saying need to be theyre not but im just saying need to be sure theyre not but im just saying need to be sure that they are. We need to look really to be sure that they are. We need to look really carefully at the locations where the vaccines are being locations where the vaccines are being provided to making sure there is not being provided to making sure there is not any being provided to making sure there is not any barriers that are making that difficult. And then i think the other that difficult. And then i think the other part that difficult. And then i think the other part of this is that it is clear other part of this is that it is clear there needs to be information provided clear there needs to be information provided from a blade not from old white provided from a blade not from old white men provided from a blade not from old white men like me but for people within white men like me but for people within that community to each other so that within that community to each other so that they can make informed decisions so that they can make informed decisions. Sol so that they can make informed decisions. So i think thats another really decisions. So i think thats another really critical part of this. And finally and really critical part of this. And finally and very really critical part of this. fific finally and very quickly, many parents will be wondering if their children will be vaccinated. What are the plans or what do you know about that . We are the plans or what do you know about that . Are the plans or what do you know about that . ~. , , about that . We are already tuning up to two vaccine about that . We are already tuning up to two Vaccine Studies about that . We are already tuning up to two Vaccine Studies in about that . We are already tuning up to two Vaccine Studies in children to two Vaccine Studies in children starting to two Vaccine Studies in children starting with teenagers called agent de escalation so it will then go down de escalation so it will then go down first de escalation so it will then go down first of all to the 12 years and above down first of all to the 12 years and above and then down to five years and above and then down to five years and and above and then down to five years and above and then younger children years and above and then younger children. There is a need to do two things children. There is a need to do two things you children. There is a need to do two things. You have to show that the doses things. You have to show that the doses of things. You have to show that the doses of the vaccines that we use are ok doses of the vaccines that we use are ok and doses of the vaccines that we use are ok and they are the correct doses are ok and they are the correct doses and are ok and they are the correct doses and those intervals and they produce doses and those intervals and they produce good immune responses and also produce safety data to show they are also produce safety data to show they are not any unexpected or different they are not any unexpected or different patterns of side effects in kids different patterns of side effects in kids. So though studies are Going Forward in kids. So though studies are Going Forward now and will produce results in the forward now and will produce results in the summer so that later in the year in the summer so that later in the year children can be immunised if and when year children can be immunised if and when that turns out to be necessary and when that turns out to be necessary and possible. Thats good to hear. Thank necessary and possible. Thats good to hear. Thank you necessary and possible. Thats good to hear. Thank you very necessary and possible. Thats good to hear. Thank you very much necessary and possible. Thats good l to hear. Thank you very much indeed, professor. A mother and daughter were killed last night in separate attacks in kilmarnock. A 40 year old man died in a Car Crash South of the town a short time later. From kilmarnock, our scotland correspondent lorna gordon reports. Emma Robertson Coupland and nicole anderson, mother and daughter who a friend described on social media as beautiful girls taken far too soon. The attacks which led to their deaths took place over 45 minutes yesterday evening. They began here at a large hospital on the edge of kilmarnockjust before 8pm. 39 year old emma Robertson Coupland, who worked for the nhs, was attacked in the car park of the hospital complex. She received medical care, but died at the scene. Her daughter, nicole anderson, who was 24 and who was on shift in a takeawayjust a couple of miles away, was stabbed shortly after. She was rushed to the hospital where her mother had worked, but died laterfrom her injuries. Kilmarnock is now the focus of a major investigation. Streets cordoned off. Ive stayed here about 30 odd years now, and weve never seen anything like it. I feel upset for the whole family. Its devastation. Police are linking both deaths to a third incident, a fatal car crash on a local road in which 40 year old Steven Robertson was killed. For three hours last night, this hospital complex was locked down. Police remain here today, but they say their inquiries indicate that all three incidents were linked and theyre not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths. Today, the Prime Minister said his thoughts are with all those involved, and he gave his thanks to the police and Health Care Staff for their response. The First Minister said her thoughts were also with the bereaved and that she was thinking of everyone at Crosshouse Hospital already dealing with the tough circumstances of covid. This Community Left struggling to understand the sudden and violent nature of the shocking events that took place here last night. Lorna gordon, bbc news, at Crosshouse Hospital in ayrshire. The Welsh Government has confirmed that children aged 3 7 will return to school from the 22nd of february, along with some older children on vocational courses. The education minister, kirsty williams, said the youngest children had been prioritised, as they found it particularily difficult to learn remotely, but said she was not yet in a position to allow the return of all pupils. However, the head of one Teaching Union said they wouldnt support todays announcement without assurances about teacher safety. Our wales education correspondent bethan lewis reports. Im so pleased that were able to get Foundation Based learners learners Back To School, but that does not mean Everything Else can go back to normal. Families glued to the tv. They were listening out for what the plans would mean for them. We are not yet at a position to be able to see a full return to school for every learner. However, thanks to people following our national guidance, there is sufficient headroom for us to bring some of our learners in a phased and flexible, progressive way back into the classroom. I caught up with ten year old hazel and her dad daniel after theyd a chance to digest what had been said. As well as being a mum to three Secondary School children, alison is a primary headteacher. Well, for me, personally, it was absolutely fantastic news to have Foundation Based children back again. And as long as we can do it safely, for children and staff, then, it is really a positive step. But fiona has a slightly different reaction. It was a bit gutting because we cant go Back To School and everything yet, and it has been a long time l since we have been Back To School, since before christmas, a very long time getting used to the Online Learning again. I its very different to what learning has been for us. I think the children arejust finding it harder to keep motivated now. Yeah, iagree. My wifes having to do the majority of the home schooling this time around. And i think youve been all right in the mornings, but come afternoon, its quite difficult to keep going. And, hazel, what do you miss most about school would you say . The teachers and the classroom. Some vocational students and colleges will be back after half term, too, though most older pupils will have to wait a fortnight for any update. But children from nursery to year two will be back in class on or soon after february the 22nd. How do you feel about going Back To School . Chris lawrence, whos youngest son ethan whos four will be one of those going back. Good. Cant believe i can see my friends. And my teachers will be there to teach me some more welsh. When kids have routine in their lives and structure in their lives, it makes fora happier kid, it makes for calmer parents. But headteachers are eager for more information. We would welcome more detail from the Welsh Government. We have a very busy weekend of work ahead of us and a busy week next week to reassure staff, l learners and parents that schools will be safe. Weve been back here before in the summer term when the schools were reopening, the minister had one ambition, the unions had another. And in the end, many schools stayed shut. We dont want that being repeated after the february half term. Potentially the impact on this covid generation, as its becoming known, will last potentially throughout their entire lifetime, so we need to get those new teachers and assistants into school now and we need to be creative. There will be some added measures in place. Teachers will be tested twice weekly, and there will be many for new face coverings, part of a first step in getting pupils back in class. British gas engineers, who today began a four day strike, have identified a further 12 dates in the coming weeks when they will refuse to work in a dispute over pay and conditions. Members of the gmb union will walk out forfour day strikes on the next three fridays, with further action expected unless the deadlock is broken. There have already been 12 strike days this year. Our reporter nina nanji joins me now. Whats the row about . This is a long running dispute between centrica, the owner of british gas and on the other hand the employees. Now the gmb union says it is resulting in longer hours for less pay and is basically the equivalent of doing three extra hours per week for no additional money. And they are also saying the company is threatening those staff who wont sign up to these new contracts to fire them and then to rehire them on inferior tabs. Not all of this is relate bubbling up into some industrial action we have already seen and will be heard today is there will be a further 12 dates that have been set for more strikes, and thats going to be taking place from the middle of february. Now centrica says it is offering a fair deal to its workers and says that basic pay and pensions are being protected and it also says that more than 80 of staff have actually already signed up to the new contracts. So already signed up to the new contracts already signed up to the new contracts. , ,. , contracts. So for the strike started takin contracts. So for the strike started taking place. Contracts. So for the strike started taking place, what contracts. So for the strike started taking place, what sort contracts. So for the strike started taking place, what sort of taking place, what sort of disruption have there been . By, taking place, what sort of disruption have there been . A really aood oint disruption have there been . A really good point and disruption have there been . A really good point and this disruption have there been . A really good point and this is disruption have there been . A really good point and this is all disruption have there been . A really good point and this is all happening | good point and this is all happening at a difficult time. Middle of winter in the middle of a pandemic and rubber we have all been told to spend more time at home, so not a great time. As we say, you may have already and disruption. Perhaps he needed a british gas into you to come out and look at your boiler and you were told there was not one available. And there are reports of available. And there are reports of a growing backlog of missed appointments to the tune of 170,000 possible missed appointments. Although that number is disputed by the company. Now centrica says its doing its best to minimise disruption this time and also says it will be prioritising vulnerable families and also emergencies during the walk outs. It families and also emergencies during the walkouts the walkouts. It will leave it there for the walkouts. It will leave it there for now the walkouts. It will leave it there for now but the walkouts. It will leave it there for now but thank the walkouts. It will leave it there for now but thank you i the walkouts. It will leave it. There for now but thank you very much for laying that out for us. Hazel nolan is a gmb organiser. Shejoins me now from glasgow. Thank you for speaking to us. The timing is not going to sit well with your consumers. Its winter another time for disruption. Time for disruption. Absolutely but i could not agree time for disruption. Absolutely but i could not agree more time for disruption. Absolutely but i could not agree more but i could not agree more but unfortunately it was not the gmb that chose this time. It was the company that chose this time. It was the company and our members are faced with no company and our members are faced with no alternative but to strike at this time with no alternative but to strike at this time because come April The 1st they will this time because come April The 1st they will all be sacked by british gas they will all be sacked by british gas. ,. , gas. Fire in rehire, is that even leual . Gas. Fire in rehire, is that even legal . Many gas. Fire in rehire, is that even legal . Many viewers gas. Fire in rehire, is that even legal . Many viewers at gas. Fire in rehire, is that even legal . Many viewers at home l gas. Fire in rehire, is that even i legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how could legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how could it legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how could it be legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how could it be legal legal . Many viewers at home and wonder how could it be legal but l legal . Many viewers at home and i wonder how could it be legal but the situation wonder how could it be legal but the situation with Fire In Rehire is we have situation with Fire In Rehire is we have members who could have been working have members who could have been working for have members who could have been working for british gas 434 years and will working for british gas 434 years and will not be able to be entitled to a single and will not be able to be entitled to a single penny of redundancy at all through the fire and rehire process all through the fire and rehire process in all through the fire and rehire process in effect they willjust be sacked process in effect they willjust be sacked if process in effect they willjust be sacked if they dont accept these lower sacked if they dont accept these lower terms and conditions. And its notjust lower terms and conditions. And its notjust about those lower terms and conditions. And its not just about those three hours but by the not just about those three hours but by the way not just about those three hours but by the way that would add up to 156 hours by the way that would add up to 156 hours over by the way that would add up to 156 hours over the course of a year, which hours over the course of a year, which is hours over the course of a year, which is almost an entire month of hours which is almost an entire month of hours extra which is almost an entire month of hours extra. Its also reduced holidays, hours extra. Its also reduced holidays, its the extension of core hours. Holidays, its the extension of core hours. It holidays, its the extension of core hours. It is holidays, its the extension of core hours, it is the other detriments to workers hours, it is the other detriments to workers that they are facing if they dont workers that they are facing if they dont take workers that they are facing if they dont take this and this from a company dont take this and this from a company that had an Operating Profit of £901 company that had an Operating Profit of £901 million last year. So there really of £901 million last year. So there really is of £901 million last year. So there really is no of £901 million last year. So there really is no need for this. Really is no need for this. Before we no really is no need for this. Before we go into really is no need for this. Before we go into what really is no need for this. Before we go into what the really is no need for this. Before we go into what the next really is no need for this. Before we go into what the next steps l really is no need for this. Before i we go into what the next steps are, could ijust ask we go into what the next steps are, could i just ask a we go into what the next steps are, could ijust ask a management we go into what the next steps are, could i just ask a management taking a similar pay cut or are there conditions changing all . Know, the former Ceo Conditions changing all . Know, the former ceo who conditions changing all . Know, the former ceo who left conditions changing all . Know, the former ceo who left under conditions changing all . Know, the former ceo who left under a conditions changing all . Know, the former ceo who left under a year l conditions changing all . Know, the i former ceo who left under a year ago received former ceo who left under a year ago received a former ceo who left under a year ago received a 44 bonus before he left. And centrica received a 44 bonus before he left. And centrica Directors Pay themselves as if they were the ftse 100. Themselves as if they were the ftse 100 and themselves as if they were the ftse 100. And earned 20 times the salary of the 100. And earned 20 times the salary of the engineers on the ground. What are ou of the engineers on the ground. What are you asking of the engineers on the ground. What are you asking for of the engineers on the ground. Transit are you asking for next . Of the engineers on the ground. Mrisgt are you asking for next . Are of the engineers on the ground. I{mat are you asking for next . Are you sitting around the table, all the concerned parties, whats going on . It is really simple. We want a negotiated outcome. We had no stage have said negotiated outcome. We had no stage have said there should be no change and in have said there should be no change and in fact have said there should be no change and in fact we have always negotiated an outcome without having to state negotiated an outcome without having to state strike action. Thats what this is to state strike action. Thats what this is the to state strike action. Thats what this is the biggest gas strike since the i970s this is the biggest gas strike since the 1970s. When we are asking is for the 1970s. When we are asking is for the directors to negotiate in good faith and the directors to negotiate in good faith and that means removing fire and rehire faith and that means removing fire and rehire. Otherwise for our workers and rehire. Otherwise for our workers is and rehire. Otherwise for our workers is like negotiating with a luii workers is like negotiating with a gun to workers is like negotiating with a gun to your head. And in fact because gun to your head. And in fact because our Trade Dispute is based on the because our Trade Dispute is based on the fire because our Trade Dispute is based on the fire and rehire, if they remove on the fire and rehire, if they remove that and got back on the table remove that and got back on the table they remove that and got back on the table they would remove our ability to go table they would remove our ability to go on table they would remove our ability to go on strike because about would a longer to go on strike because about would a longer be to go on strike because about would a longer be legal. So they have the ability a longer be legal. So they have the ability to a longer be legal. So they have the ability to do both of these things. The deadline is when . The ability to do both of these things. The deadline is when . The deadline is when . The end of march so come the deadline is when . The end of march so come april the deadline is when . The end of march so come april the the deadline is when . The end of march so come April The 1st the deadline is when . The end of march so come April The 1st if the deadline is when . The end of| march so come April The 1st if they have not march so come April The 1st if they have not signed our members will be unemployed without a single penny of nancy unemployed without a single penny of nancy from years of working at british nancy from years of working at british gas. A nancy from years of working at british gas. Nancy from years of working at british gas. ,. ,. ,. , british gas. A lot Forjeremy Corbyn and ed miliband, british gas. A lot Forjeremy Corbyn and ed miliband, as british gas. A lot Forjeremy Corbyn and ed miliband, as far british gas. A lot Forjeremy Corbyn and ed miliband, as far as british gas. A lot Forjeremy Corbyn and ed miliband, as far as cost and ed miliband, as far as cost which is all your members happy with potentially being fired . Riff which is all your members happy with potentially being fired . Potentially being fired . Of course the are potentially being fired . Of course they are not potentially being fired . Of course they are not. You potentially being fired . Of course they are not. You know, potentially being fired . Of course they are not. You know, these i potentially being fired . Of course| they are not. You know, these are key workers they are not. You know, these are key workers. We have to remind ourselves key workers. We have to remind ourselves the fact that they are key workers ourselves the fact that they are key workers. These workers went into the hold people workers. These workers went into the hold people during the height of the pandemic hold people during the height of the pandemic that they knew had covid 19 and did pandemic that they knew had covid 19 and did that to keep them warm and safe and and did that to keep them warm and safe and they went above and beyond to do it safe and they went above and beyond to do it. And they are heartbroken that they to do it. And they are heartbroken that they are not out there helping customers that they are not out there helping customers now. And really its british customers now. And really its british gas who relating do notjust the workers and the weather theyre shooting the workers and the weather theyre shooting them but also their customers and they could solve the situation customers and they could solve the situation for both our customers and for the situation for both our customers and for the workforce if they dropped the fire for the workforce if they dropped the fire and rehire threats. Gk, for the workforce if they dropped the fire and rehire threats. Ok, we will leave it the fire and rehire threats. Ok, we will leave it there the fire and rehire threats. Ok, we will leave it there for the fire and rehire threats. Ok, we will leave it there for now the fire and rehire threats. Ok, we will leave it there for now but will leave it there for now but thank you very much, thank you. Heavy snowfall has brought Travel Disruption to parts of scotland. An Amber Weather Warning for snow and ice will remain in place till tomorrow for much of the highlands. Dozens of people on the main road to ullapool and the Western Isles ferries were trapped in cars, lorries and even a coach overnight. Isla todd reports. The wind was at least, like, 50 55mph and the snow was thick, one of the Thickest Snowstorms ive encountered any way. It was a long, dark winters night for the 32 people trapped on the A835 Last Night after a jackknifed lorry blocked the road. Snow was two metres high in parts and drifting in heavy wind, covering car doors, trapping the people inside. Itjust got a little bit higher. The snow blizzard just came from nowhere. A lorryjackknifed not that far in front of us, and the snow was just really thick and that was it, the whole road was in standstill for 14 hours. Ijust completely lost momentum, itjust started slowing me down and then it started spinning. And that was me, ijust got stuck after that. Police were checking on folk overnight, but a rescue wasnt safe until dawn, with everyone freed by 10am. If you were to be sitting in one of our spreaders, driving through an area drifting, then you look behind yourself, you can very quickly see it whooshing in behind you as it was, so it really isjust a case of keeping at it. Im only around six miles away from where people were stranded in their cars overnight. The wind is bitterly cold, and as you can see, the snow is continuing to fall. And the Amber Weather Warning remains in place until midday tomorrow for even more heavy and persistent snow. Isla todd, reporting scotland. The Health Benefits of singing are becoming well known with scientists reporting the way in which it can reduce stress and improve mood. But the opportunity to sing together and for children to enjoy singing at school has been massively curbed by covid. And so schools are now having to find inventive ways to teach music, with most children learning from home rather than in an assembly hall. Our correspondent, nicola rees, has been speaking to schools in bradford and sheffield about how theyre using the power of music to engage and inspire pupils. Good morning. Its mrs cunningham here, and we are ready for another feel good friday singalong. The headteacher� s assemblies have become a bit of a hit with children at this school in sheffield. For those learning at home, its a welcome opportunity to exercise the lungs. I see your true colours. But the benefits go further than that. Singing is helping the children to cope with lockdown. The reaction to feel good fridays has just proven to me, if we needed proof, that music has this power to bring us together no matter what space and distance is really between us. Dont be discouraged. I think my highlight of the week. Is the feel good friday singalong, because mrs cunningham is an amazing singer. What i like about singing is it lets me show my true colours. What i look forward to on fridays is the music. And in bradford, too, that feeling of togetherness through music is alive and well. I think its essential for all children in developing their confidence, in developing their language skills. If we start these children young with it, they really flourish. Have you seen a difference in the children since you started with these remote Music Classes . Yeah, theyre very responsive to physical stuff. So, in the lesson today, i was teaching them some projects and quavers, but through dancing with toilet roll. From finding a rhythm with toilet rolls to zoom chats with Guest Musicians of every variety. Creativity is at the centre of everything here, and the kids are talented, too. In lockdown, we just sit at home all day, and when we do music, itjust makes me feel happy. Im getting used to doing it on a computer, but i would rather be at school. It makes me feel happy instead ofjust sitting down. And we should be happy to have a Music Teacher because some schools dont even have one. You get to have fun, you get to talk to your friends, you get to sing. However you make it, music is good for the mind, body and soul. Long live the lockdown singalong. Nicolas rees, bbc news. Now its time for a look at the weather with sarah keith lucas. Good evening. Weve seen heavy snowfall over recent days across the northern half of scotland, and more of us are going to be seeing that wintry weather arriving through the weekend. It is going to be turning colder across the board. Were going to see low pressure becoming established down to the south east of the uk. Thats going to open the doors for these really Cold Easterly Winds to be driving in. So, bringing not only some disruptive snowfall in the east, but also a significant wind chill. Look, its going to feel around about 6 or 7 degrees through sunday and into monday as well. For the here and now, weve still got an Amber Warning for heavy snow across the northern half of scotland, mainly over Higher Ground, but increasingly that snow will start to fall to lower levels, too. Theres also a lot of heavy rain across the south east of scotland, north east england, too. Elsewhere across england and wales, some heavy showers continuing through the course of tonight. Could be some hail mixed in with some of those heavy downpours, too. Clearing skies and light winds down towards the South West Of England and wales, so some mists and fog and also some icy stretches forming here through the course of tonight into early saturday. So, lets take a look at saturday. Quite a bit of dry weather for northern ireland, perhaps one or two lighter showers, a bit of sunshine, too, for parts of southern and South West England and wales. Well continue to see rain showers in parts of eastern, North Eastern england. Heavy snow again over the Higher Ground of scotland falling to lower levels later on, and some of that snow also pushing over the Higher Ground of northern england. So, the pennines, for instance, seeing a fair bit of snow through saturday. But its not until the overnight period that we see the really cold air moving in across the board, these Cold Easterly Winds, and thats going to drive in some very persistent and heavy snowfall for parts of east anglia and the south east moving through the day on sunday, too. Temperature wise, at best only about 2 4 degrees, but feeling subzero when you add on that wind chill. And weve got an Amber Warning in force from the met office from parts of norfolk down towards kent for that heavy snowfall. Widely 5 10 centimetres expected, could be as much as 20 centimetres, and itll be blowing in on that brisk easterly wind, so blizzard conditions possible. Into monday, a similar sort of day. Again, that easterly wind driving in some heavy snow showers to parts of Eastern England and eastern scotland. Further west, you should stay mostly dry if somewhat cloudy, but its going to be a very cold day once again on monday. Temperatures a degree or two either side of freezing, but feeling much colder than that when you add on the wind chill. All the warnings are on our website. Bye bye. This is bbc news with the latest headlines for viewers in the uk and around the world. President biden warns that the us economy is still in trouble but promises to take swift action on covid relief as americans reach what he calls breaking point�. I believe the American People are looking right now to their government for help, to do ourjob, to not let them down. So im going to act, im going to act fast. The uk government says its on track to offer a Coronavirus Vaccine to everyone over 50 by may. As the new Us Administration backs the effort to return to the moon, we look at nasas plan to make it happen. Canadian actor, Christopher Plummer, best known for his role
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