Triple testing for arrivals

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Extra testing

Travellers arriving in the UK will need to take two coronavirus tests during their 10-day quarantine. That’s in addition to the negative test they need to show at the other end, before getting on the plane, train, or boat. It’s hoped that the extra rules will help to prevent new variants of the virus from getting into the country.

Lean January

Consumer spending was down 16.3% last month compared to January 2020, according to Barclaycard. The credit card provider said it was the steepest decline in spending since May last year. We spent 73% more on takeaways and online shopping - but it couldn’t make up for not being able to go to pubs or restaurants, or book holidays.

Worse for women?

The economic impact of coronavirus has widened inequalities between men and women, according to a report by a cross-party group of MPs. The report reckons that government support for the economy has helped men more than women. The impacts are down to existing differences - for example, women are more likely to work in shut-down sectors like retail and hospitality, and to have part-time or zero hours contracts.

Gold beef

A London chef has taken flak for his gourmet takeaway sandwiches that cost up to £50 and feature luxury ingredients like rib-eye steak wrapped in edible gold leaf. He’s doing a roaring trade in west London, delivering his creations in a black Mercedes.