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Your morning briefing: What you should know for Thursday, May 13

 (ES Composite)
(ES Composite)

Covid infections fall but concerns remain about variants

Coronavirus infections in England halved in recent months, according to a study, but concerns remain about the threat from new variants.

Prevalence of infections dropped by 50 per cent between March and early May, and is at its lowest since August, new data suggests.

However, the figures come amid a warning from Boris Johnson that new variants “pose a potentially lethal danger”.

It comes as scientists advising the Government warned that concerns over variants could mean the planned end to lockdown next month could be delayed.

Israeli military threatens to invade Gaza amid fears of ‘all-out war’

The Israeli military has threatened to invade Gaza amid warnings that its bombing of the territory was already leading to war.

The UN’s special envoy to the Middle East peace process has called for a ceasefire, saying “leaders on all sides have to take the responsibility of de-escalation.”

Continued strikes on both sides brought the death toll in Gaza to 53, including 14 children.

Covid inquiry next year will be too late, say bereaved families

Boris Johnson has promised a public inquiry into the government’s handling of coronavirus next spring, but victims’ families said this will be too late.

The Prime Minister revealed on Wednesday that the inquiry would put “the state’s actions under a microscope”.

Rivika Gottlieb, whose father Michael died in the first wave of the pandemic, has been among those calling for an inquiry since last year.

Speaking in front of the National Coronavirus Memorial Ms Gottlieb said “The idea of waiting yet another year for a public inquiry to even begin terrifies me.”

Heathrow Airport could divert planes to deal with border queues

Heathrow Airport could divert planes to other UK or European airports if border queues become too long.

The transport hub has already seen queues up to six hours long as result of increased checks and paperwork for UK arrivals, the BBC reported.

The airport previously warned passengers that they could be held on their planes while the checks are processed.

To prevent this from happening, Heathrow wants more staff at border control, and an automated passenger locator form.

Defeat to Arsenal dents Chelsea’s hopes of top four finish

Emile Smith Rowe's goal was enough to earn Arsenal a surprise 1-0 victory at Chelsea last night - a result which dented the Blues' hopes of a Premier League top-four finish.

Kepa Arrizabalaga could only palm a Jorginho backpass off his own line, and Pierre-EMerick Aubameyang teed up Smith Rowe for the only goal of a tight London derby at Stamford Bridge.

While Chelsea remain favourites to secure Champions League qualification, should West Ham and Liverpool win their games in hand, the Blues will be under pressure to win their remaining two League matches while also preparing for their FA Cup and Champions League Finals.

The result leaves Thomas Tuchel’s Blues effectively facing four finals to end their season on a high.

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Your morning briefing: What you should know for Wednesday, May 12

Your morning briefing: What you should know for Tuesday, May 11

Your morning briefing: What you should know for Monday, May 10