A week that began with the coronavirus R rate rocketing in Germany is ending with hope that for Britons, the months of lockdown may be coming to an end.
An outbreak at a meat-processing plant in one of Germany’s most populous states has fuelled talk of a second wave of infections in countries worldwide. But as temperatures soared in the UK, Boris Johnson was also in a sunny mood as he gave pubs, restaurants and hairdressers the green light to reopen from 4 July.
The announcement served as a partial distraction from a growing row over planning disputes involving House Secretary Robert Jenrick.
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This week also marks the four-year anniversary of the UK voting to leave the European Union - a decision that experts say has heralded the change of “everything and nothing” for the nation.
To find out how closely you’ve been paying attention to the latest developments in the pandemic, and other global events, put your knowledge to the test with our Quiz of The Week:
Need a reminder of some of the other headlines over the past seven days?
Anti-bullying campaigners have applauded the decision to form an independent panel in the House of Commons to review harassment complaints against MPs. In a move that has also been welcomed by many, MPs voted against a motion tabled by Jacob Rees-Mogg to publicly debate bullying allegations in the chamber.
Over in the US, presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has continued to rise in the polls, as some pundits question whether Donald Trump really wants to win a second term, in the wake of his latest seemingly self-sabotaging media interventions.
Back in the UK, Rebekah Vardy filed libel and slander claims against fellow footballer’s wife Coleen Rooney in the High Court, in the latest instalment of their so-called Wagatha Christie row.
Meanwhile, in the world of art, conservationists are calling for greater regulation of restoration efforts after another painting was ruined by an overeager enthusiast.
