Boris Johnson in hospital with persistent COVID-19 symptoms but still working
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was in hospital undergoing tests on Monday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms for more than 10 days, but the government said he was in good spirits and still in charge.
ILO annual gathering of labour ministers postponed for a year
An annual gathering of the world’s labour ministers will not take place this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, but will convene in June 2021, the International Labour Organization (ILO) said on Monday.
Czechs may relax lockdown as coronavirus infections slow
The Czech government is considering relaxing lockdown measures that have stifled the economy if an apparent levelling off in the growth of new coronavirus infections is confirmed in the coming days, officials said on Monday.
Migrant workers keep picking Swiss asparagus amid coronavirus curbs
Migrant workers drawn by attractive pay are keeping Switzerland’s asparagus supplies moving during the coronavirus crisis despite fears they could be kept out by border restrictions.
Poland’s parliament rejects ruling party plan to vote on postal ballot proposal
Polish lawmakers rejected a ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party proposal on Monday to hold a presidential election on May 10 by post, making it more uncertain whether the ballot will take place amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Japan to declare coronavirus emergency, launch stimulus of almost $1 trillion: PM
Japan is to impose a state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures as early as Tuesday to contain the coronavirus, while the government prepares a $990 billion stimulus package to soften the economic blow.
Too soon to ease anti-virus curbs, Swiss say as new cases decelerate
It is too early to consider easing measures that restrict the spread of the new coronavirus, Switzerland’s health minister said on Monday, even as neighbouring Austria sketched out plans to start loosening a national lockdown.
Pakistan police clash with doctors protesting lack of virus protection gear
Riot police wielding batons used force to break up a protest by Pakistani doctors and medical staff against a lack of gear to protect against coronavirus, arresting dozens of medics who say the government has failed to deliver promised supplies.
Britain committed to continuing talks with EU: PM’s spokesman
Britain is absolutely committed to continuing negotiations with the European Union on their future relationship, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday, repeating that the government did not intend to extend the transition period.
Mormon church to open first temple in mainland China
The Utah-based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormon church, plans to open its first temple in mainland China at a time when Beijing has been clamping down steadily on religious freedoms.
