Nightclubs can’t afford to test

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Tests too pricey

Club, theatre and music venue bosses have warned that they can’t afford to do rapid testing at the door. Yesterday, Boris Johnson said testing would be the most likely route to enjoying nights out again - but the industry isn’t sure. With the cheapest lateral flow tests costing at least £7 each, they say they’d need government help to make it viable.

Inflation increase

The cost of living rose slightly in January, recording an inflation rate of 0.7% according to the Office for National Statistics. It was driven by small price rises for food and household goods. It’s a bigger rise than many economists expected, but still far below the Bank of England’s 2% target.

Oil firm confession?

BlackRock has said that oil companies should publish their carbon emissions and set targets to cut them. It’s the world’s largest and most influential investment manager, and will demand the data from all the highly polluting companies it holds shares in. Most big oil companies have already committed to reducing emissions by 2050.

Pub gardens only?

6 in 10 pubs would be unable to reopen if drinking is only allowed outside, according to the British Beer and Pub Association. 29,000 pubs in the UK don’t have enough space to offer outdoor service. Government plans suggest that al fresco pints will be the first step - but the industry is pushing for a full reopening at the same time that non-essential shops return.