is one of the richest heads of state in the world — he's claimed his daughter is in the loving care of her family. still waiting for a vaccine — the radio presenterjo whiley speaks of her fears for her sister frances — who has learning difficulties and diabetes — after a covid outbreak at her care home. they'll make the situation changed because she has tested positive and i cannot believe it. it's like being in a bad movie and every day there is another plot twist and it's worse than the one before. diversity — the final frontier — as the european space agency goes recruiting for new astronauts. good evening and welcome to bbc news. the number of people in england being asked to shield to protect themselves from coronavirus infection is to be expanded. the government is recommending an extra 1.7 million people be added to the 2.3 million already on the list. half the group have not yet been vaccinated, so will now be prioritised by their local gps. in other developments today — there's another sign the lockdown may be working — new data shows that the weekly number of deaths from covid—i9 in england and wales has fallen for the first time since christmas. nicola sturgeon has announced a staggered return of pupils to scottish classrooms. from next monday, the youngest primary school children and secondary school children who need to complete coursework will begin face—to—face teaching. scientists have discovered another new variant of coronavirus in the uk. more than 30 positive cases of the bi five two five strain has been identified since the end of the year, and research is continuing to establish what risk it poses. and, in the last few hours, it's been revealed that more surge testing will take place in parts of england after new cases of the south african variant were found. tests will be carried out in manchester, southampton, woking and parts of norfolk. we'll have more on those developments later in this hour; first, our health editor hugh pym reports on more on the expansion of shielding. the least well—off areas have been hit hard by covid—i9. health officials are taking that into account with new modelling to predict who is most at risk. obesity, gender and ethnic background are other factors used to draw up a new list of people who will be advised to shield. the existing shielding list was compiled based on certain serious health conditions. they will be advised to stay at home, and they will be offered support. all of these new individuals who are included will be able to take that advice if they want to. they would also be able to get access to prioritised supermarket deliveries, to medicines deliveries, and also, if they are unable to work from home and they choose to take the advice and stay at home, they will be able to access statutory sick pay. currently, the shielding list in england includes about 2.3 million people. under the new policy, about 1.7 million more will be contacted and added to the list. of those, about 820,000 haven't yet had a vaccination. officials say they will now be prioritised. some have questioned the timing when the covid risk factors had been identified awhile ago. it would have been better to protect people at the earliest possible especially when we knew the additional risk placed upon people who came from certain ethnic minority backgrounds living in areas of deprivation, but now that we have got this, it's vital that people are supported to protect themselves. the 1.7 million people will start receiving letters soon, and some councils with areas of high deprivation will have a major task contacting them to check what support they need. already, we've got 17,000 people shielding, and the news today means that over the next two weeks, we will be shielding another 12,000 people who are over 70, and another 12,000 who are under 70. that, i think, shows in very graphic terms the health inequalities which exist in a borough like brent. shielding will continue in england until the end of march. officials in scotland, wales and northern ireland have access to the modelling but none are currently planning to expand their lists of those being advised to shield. hugh pym, bbc news. let's have a look at the latest government figures now, and there were 10,625 new infections recorded in the latest 24—hour period. an average of 12,332 new cases were recorded per day in the last week — that's back to levels not seen since the first few days of october. twenty one thousand people are in hospital with coronavirus across the uk. in the last 2a hours, 799 deaths have been recorded —— that's people who died within 28 days of a positive covid test — that's down almost 25% since this time last week. on average, 621 deaths were announced every day in the past week. the total number of people who've died is 118,195. almost 276 thousand people had their first dose of one of the three approved covid—19 vaccines in the latest 2a hour period. more than fifteen and a half million people have now had their firstjab. let's get more on this now. joining me is dr deepti gurdasani, a clinical epidemiologist and senior lecturer at queen mary university of london. thank at queen mary university of london. you forjoining science thank you forjoining us. the science behind this and a more nuanced assessment of those who should shield. but it is almost the same numbers. 1.7 million and haven't we known about the risk factors of these people include in this new assessment?— factors of these people include in this new assessment? yes. it is long overdue and — this new assessment? yes. it is long overdue and i _ this new assessment? yes. it is long overdue and i think _ this new assessment? yes. it is long overdue and i think many _ this new assessment? yes. it is long overdue and i think many groups - this new assessment? yes. it is longl overdue and i think many groups have been asking for the government to address the risks associated with deprivation with the ethnicity and it has not been done so far despite knowing about these and i know it is being taken into account because clearly it is important risk factors for severe covid—19. 0ne clearly it is important risk factors for severe covid—19. one of the areas missing from even the current guidance is exposure. i think we really need to look at the risk of different occupations and for example, prioritise health care workers and i think that is something that should be really included in the model and we need to consider that as part of the risk strategy as well. we consider that as part of the risk strategy as well.— consider that as part of the risk strategy as well. we know about obesi , strategy as well. we know about obesity, ethnicity _ strategy as well. we know about obesity, ethnicity and _ strategy as well. we know about | obesity, ethnicity and deprivation have been factors, should it have been approached eight months ago? i agree with you. ethnicity is a huge risk factorfor agree with you. ethnicity is a huge risk factor for severe covid—19 and it is something that many groups have been asking for a long time because those groups are highly exposed. we know they have poor outcomes in the risk is been very clear and we have seen several reports and it is very late, but i'm really glad that it's being addressed at this point in time and also i think we can go further than this. ., , ., , this. one group that were being asked to shield _ this. one group that were being asked to shield were _ this. one group that were being asked to shield were pregnant l this. one group that were being - asked to shield were pregnant women. does this apply here as well or not? i think pregnant women with heart conditions are being asked to shield as a high—risk group. i do not think pregnant women in general are being asked to shield as far as enough in the car items. asked to shield as far as enough in the car item-— asked to shield as far as enough in the car item— asked to shield as far as enough in the car items. these people will not be added to — the car items. these people will not be added to the _ the car items. these people will not be added to the extremely - the car items. these people will not i be added to the extremely vulnerable group in some wicked statutory sick pay if cannot work from home, which could cause problems for people there as well. moving onto the vaccine programme, the figures suggest that one of five people have antibodies. is that all good news? 0r antibodies. is that all good news? or is there are still concerned about take? i or is there are still concerned about take?— or is there are still concerned about take? ~ , ., ., , about take? i think it is good news because what _ about take? i think it is good news because what we _ about take? i think it is good news because what we are _ about take? i think it is good news because what we are seeing - about take? i think it is good news because what we are seeing is - about take? i think it is good news because what we are seeing is the | because what we are seeing is the case in england, we see a higher level of antibodies in the above 80s which i expect, potentially for vaccination and it was done by the 1st of february so it's not quite up to date. and for example, scotland, wales or northern ireland, bristol seeing the above 80s having antibodies and surveillance of drew around 10%. severe quite far from where we need to be. of course, antibodies are not a good proxy for immunity. but it goes to show that much of a population does not carry antibodies against this virus and even people who have been vaccinated the extent of the 1st of february. we have seen them take up front line health care workers is a particularly good in certain groups. in the antibodies in the immunity. where do we need to get when we are safer in justice where do we need to get when we are safer injustice or where do we need to get when we are safer in justice or right up to that those of good antibodies, does that mean they are now in the clear as far as coronavirus is concerned? ida. far as coronavirus is concerned? no, unfortunately _ far as coronavirus is concerned? no, unfortunately we _ far as coronavirus is concerned? iifr, unfortunately we do not know what sort of tests correlate with good immunity. antibodies are a bit of a proxy. they are not a perfect proxy but it is always good to see people are having an antibody response to vaccines those vaccines are at least working the listening antibodies to the virus and we have seen sufficient time has not passed even for that but i don't think it is surprising that we are not seeing blanket lehigh antibody responses. if you look at cases like israel where the vaccination programme has kind of have been for a long period of time. we would expect to eventually see that response in the majority of those age groups which is not something that we are seeing yet butjust enough time has not passed as i know are taking the screws have been quite high, if you look at the data, is from northern ireland, was in scotland, the higher stronger antibodies are still in the younger groups. and we'll find out how this story — and many others — are covered in tomorrow's front pages at around 10:30 and 11:30 this evening in the papers — our guestsjoining me tonight are the editor of the political news website, politics home, kate proctor and the broadcaster, john stapleton. more than two years after princess latifa was last seen, the daughter of dubai's ruler — has accused her own father of holding her hostage. in video messages recorded over months on a mobile phone that was smuggled to her, the 35 year old says she's being held in a villa in dubai that has been converted into a jail. it comes after the princess escaped from dubai with the help of a friend in february 2018 — but was then captured at sea. last year, the high court in london found that herfather, sheikh mohammed bin rashid al maktoum, had "ordered and orchestrated" the abduction and forced return to dubai of princess latifa twice, in 2002 and again in 2018. he claims she is in the safe care of herfamily. 0ur correspondent nawal al—maghafi has this report. princess latifa, daughter of one of the most powerful men in the middle east — sheikh mohammed bin rashid al—maktoum, ruler of dubai. here she is skydiving. it looks like the perfect life, but it's not one that she wanted any more. she says she's a princess held captive. she filmed this video in 2018 as she was about to flee. i'm feeling positive about the future. just waking up in the morning and thinking, i can do whatever i want today, i can go wherever i want. with the help of her friend tina, they managed to flee dubai and board a yacht. the plan was to cross the indian ocean and seek political asylum in the united states. but eight days later, as they were about to reach india, her pursuit for freedom was shattered. we started hearing noises from the upper deck which sounded like gunshots. basically, the boat was taken over by indian special forces. latifa was saying, "oh, my god, my, god, they are here." she continued screaming and kicking and try to get away. that's the last time i've seen my friend. princess latifa was taken off the boat by force in international waters. she disappeared. nothing has been heard from her since until now. princess latifa would only be allowed to step out of the villa for this, a lunch with mary robinson arranged by her stepmother. nothing has been heard from her since until now. so i'm repeating to them, and repeating that my name is latifa maktoum. i don't want to go to dubai. i want to get asylum. panorama has obtained these videos recorded over many months. in them, she details where she is being held, a villa in central dubai. i am a hostage and this villa has been converted into a jail, all the windows are boarded shut, i cannot open any window. i have been by myself in solitary confinement, no access to medical help, no trial, no charge. nothing. she sketched what she can see. the villa is being guarded by 30 police on rotation. panorama has independently verified the details of where and how she's being imprisoned. nobody should be subjected to that. solitary confinement of that sort is broadly considered to be a form of torture as it becomes prolonged, the way this has been right now. for three years now, life for sheikh mohammed bin rashid al—maktoum has continued as normal. here's sheikh mohammed, speaking with her majesty the queen. but he's been responsible for the imprisonment and abuse of his own daughter. until this day, the sheikh maintains that princess latifa's return to dubai was a rescue mission. i don't want to be a hostage in this jail villa, i just want to be free. a few months ago, her secret phone went silent. these messages would be the last we'd hear from her. we have taken the decision to release some of this evidence. we haven't taken this decision lightly. i feel that she would want us to fight for her and not give up. every day i am worried about my safety and my life. i don't really know if i am going to survive the situation. the police threatened me that i will be in prison my whole life and i'll never see the sun again. radha stirling is the founder of the civil and criminaljustice organisation detained in dubai. given her father's position, given herfather�*s position, given the countries legal system and its record on dealing with people, how much trouble is she in? she record on dealing with people, how much trouble is she in?— much trouble is she in? she is certainly facing _ much trouble is she in? she is certainly facing the _ much trouble is she in? she is certainly facing the rest - much trouble is she in? she is certainly facing the rest of - much trouble is she in? she is certainly facing the rest of herj certainly facing the rest of her life being detained in custody. we have other british nationals and other foreign have other british nationals and otherforeign nationals have other british nationals and other foreign nationals faced the same sort of life sentences and she has no recourse, herfather is same sort of life sentences and she has no recourse, her father is the ruler of dubai and owns the court rooms. she is facing years of her life being stolen from her and human rights violations and even the torture that she previously spoken of. �* , , �* , ., of. it's interesting. there's a history of — of. it's interesting. there's a history of this, _ of. it's interesting. there's a history of this, another - of. it's interesting. there's a - history of this, another daughter was abducted in the year 2000 and we had that high—profile divorce case that one of his wives who is in london at the moment and yet the high court last year or two years ago, effectively said that the he had abducted her, kidnapped her violating national and international law. what type of pressure should the eu want to exert on him and dubai? ~ ., . ., , dubai? we had the uk court rulings come with the _ dubai? we had the uk court rulings come with the united _ dubai? we had the uk court rulings come with the united nations - dubai? we had the uk court rulings. come with the united nations rulings as well therefore determined that she was illegally and unlawfully kidnapped from international waters and taken back to the uae and they have the power now to exert some diplomatic influence and if they don't, we can end up with a sort of escalating thing that puts everyone at risk. and it's notjust daughters lives there, his average citizens and we do not want to see that escalating behaviour that can really lead to death on british soil as we saw earlier. they could've easily been a british national. it is time for countries to stand up and say that this is not on any more. the count , that this is not on any more. the country. the _ that this is not on any more. the country, the whole _ that this is not on any more. the country, the whole of the gulf is a difficult reputation when it comes to looking after transparency of legal rights and legal protection. you go for princess to a domestic worker, just talk us through the judicial process for people like that, kind of nuts are the sponsored position that many domestic workers have. we position that many domestic workers have. ~ . . ~ position that many domestic workers have. ~ ., ., ,, ., ., , , have. we are talking about arrests on allegations _ have. we are talking about arrests on allegations of _ have. we are talking about arrests on allegations of zero _ have. we are talking about arrests on allegations of zero evidence, i on allegations of zero evidence, forced confessions, complaints of human rights violations. i am dealing with several cases of the moment that are being taken against the uae for human rights violations, first >> forced confessions and torture. and they're saying that he is but anyone can suggest everyone from an ex—pat worker. no legal changes or protections and really being implemented to stop this kind of abuse. meanwhile, neverthe pitch implemented to stop this kind of abuse. meanwhile, never the pitch of the newspaper, advertisements for tourists and expects to come over to divide because is wonderful. that tourists and expects to come over to divide because is wonderful.- divide because is wonderful. that is the problem. _ divide because is wonderful. that is the problem, isn't _ divide because is wonderful. that is the problem, isn't it. _ divide because is wonderful. that is the problem, isn't it. the _ divide because is wonderful. that is the problem, isn't it. the glitzy - the problem, isn't it. the glitzy bravado is a disparity that i would just run. it was extraordinary to an a half years ago when she came out and made that statement, saying this was a family matter introspectively being looked after, what do you think that she believes that she was dupedin think that she believes that she was duped in the matter? it think that she believes that she was duped in the matter?— duped in the matter? it was unbelievable _ duped in the matter? it was unbelievable at _ duped in the matter? it was unbelievable at the - duped in the matter? it was unbelievable at the time - duped in the matter? it was unbelievable at the time or| duped in the matter? it was i unbelievable at the time or her statements came on 2018. it could've been into the campaign and that would mean we would have to work very hard to keep press interest to say no, this case is not solved and she is not happy. she is claiming that she's being tortured and was kidnapped if that was not evidence enough. i think mary did put her at risk in the united nations could have been closed at that point based on her point is said that she was duped, she surrendered her suffer photographs in the press release went out and she didn't come forward and say she was duped, latif is in the same loving care for family and she did not defend her in any way, she did not defend her in any way, she did not investigate further, she really didn't get an opportunity to make that determination, but she made a public statement that really put her at risk. but made a public statement that really put her at risk-— put her at risk. but she now admits that she was- _ put her at risk. but she now admits that she was. thank— put her at risk. but she now admits that she was. thank you _ put her at risk. but she now admits that she was. thank you very - put her at risk. but she now admits that she was. thank you very much | that she was. thank you very much indeed. if you want to watch that, it will be on there a few minutes timer around 830 and a if you gonna stay with us. you can catch us in the bbc iplayer as well. time for us to catch up with the sport. let's start with the return of the champions league, two games in the last 16 under way. liverpool the six time european champions are taking on rb leipzig of germany last season's semi—finalists but it's being played in budapest due to international travel restrictions. barca looking for a 14th successive season in the 1/4 finals. gerard pique returns in defence after three months out. playing psg who lost the final last season. the world number one novak djokovic remains on course for a ninth australian open title. he came from a set down in melbourne to beat alexander zverev and will now play the russian qualifier aslan karatsev, after he knocked out the 18th seed grigor dimitrov. the bulgarian was struggling with back spasms and could barely serve after taking the first set. karatsev, ranked 114th in the world, then reeled off the next three sets to progress and become the first man in the open era to qualify for the semi finals on his grand slam debut. in the women's draw naomi 0saka will take on serena williams for a place in the final after beating taiwan's shay su—way. it'll be the first time that williams and osaka have met at a major tournament since a controversial us open final in 2018 that 0saka won. i think we've both had closure and we have reached out to each other, i've definitely reached out and so, off the court, it is hard. i think she is a great competitor and she is a cool cat. gordon reid and alfie hewett have retained their wheelchair doubles title at the australian open — that's the british pair's 10th grand slam victory. hewitt is also in tomorrow's singles final. feels amazing, got her first victory here and to get it back to back is an awesome feeling. especially with the situation at the moment and not knowing how many opportunities are going to have to compete this year and if he is brilliant to be going home of the trophy in the bag. to be out of your— home of the trophy in the bag. to be out of your computing _ home of the trophy in the bag. to be out of your computing is _ home of the trophy in the bag. to be out of your computing is an - home of the trophy in the bag. to be out of your computing is an absolute honour _ out of your computing is an absolute honour and — out of your computing is an absolute honour and to get a final imprint on the trouhy— honour and to get a final imprint on the trophy for the second time in the trophy for the second time in the second year in a row is something were both really proud of. now to rugby union where france's head coach fabian galthie has tested positive for covid—19. the french squad were already isolating after another member of staff contracted the virus. the 51 year old had returned a negative result but was re—tested today. france lead the way in the six nations championship with two wins out of two and organisers will be thankful that there's a rest weekend coming up. they'll name their squad tomorrow for the match against scotland on the 28th of february. the ireland players that came into contact with the french in dublin on sunday have all returned negative results the england captainjoe root says his side were simply outplayed after losing the second test to india in chennai. the hosts took the seven wickets required to complete a huge win by 317 runs with a day to spare. every england batsman fell to spin bowling and that levels the series at 1—all with two to play. moeen ali, who top scored for england with 43 and took 8 wickets in the match, will miss the next two tests. with played some really good cricket over the recent past. and let's be honest, we've been outplayed and off three departments this week. ronnie 0'sullivan made light work of his opponent in the first round at the welsh 0pen. he took 45 minutes to beat robbie williams 4 frames to nil as he searches for his fifth title in the event. next up the rocket takes on the whirlwind jimmy white and you can follow both of tonight's champions league matches, rb leipzig against liverpool and barcelona against paris saint germain on the bbc sport webiste and app. that's all from us for now. back now to coronavirus — and scotland's first minister, nicola sturgeon has confirmed that some school pupils will be allowed to return from next monday. children in early learning and the first three years of primary school will be among those going back to classrooms — as is the case in wales. 0ur scotland editor sarah smith has more. well, slowly and cautiously has been the approaching scottish government alter this pandemic and that continues, as nicholas sturgeon was talking about, some ability to return but that should not be treated as a return to greater normality. people should not be going to their workplaces just because they are not home—schooling anymore and it's extremely unlikely that any other students will be returning before the 15th of march at very earliest. next week, we may give a advice on how to escape this but instead, go to script the conditions that i to be met for any restrictions can be eased. in the meantime, we been told not to begin easter holidays and said that by the time it turns around, stay conditions may be possible and they will continue to take the same kind of tentative cautious approach that they did in the first locked down and we will see the same thing as we try to exit this one this year. four passengers at birmingham airport have been fined ten—thousand pounds each for failing to declare that they had travelled to the uk from a country with a high risk of covid. since yesterday, travellers arriving in england from 33 countries have been required to spend ten days in quarantine in a government—approved hotel. in scotland, arrivals from all international destinations are required to quarantine. the radio 2 presenter jo whiley says she is living "a nightmare" after her 53 year old sister who has learning disabilities and diabetes — tested positive for coronavirus after an outbreak in her care home. jo whiley revealed that she has been offered a vaccine before her younger sister, frances. and she said she wanted to speak up for the people who have been overlooked. she's been speaking to our disability correspondent, nikki fox. she's got the flaming hair and the personality that go with it. richard has a learning disability and has recently had his vaccine. he believes it is vital for others, especially those who live my my sister who was learning disabilities who has diabetes and is vulnerable when i get the vaccine. buy—back wavelengths of you and your buy— back wavelengths of you and your family— buy— back wavelengths of you and your family gone through to get the vaccine? — family gone through to get the vaccine? , ,.,,, , , .., vaccine? everything we possibly can. i sent vaccine? everything we possibly can. i sent e-mails. _ vaccine? everything we possibly can. i sent e-mails, mother _ vaccine? everything we possibly can. i sent e-mails, mother send - vaccine? everything we possibly can. l i sent e-mails, mother send e-mails, i sent e—mails, mother send e—mails, my sisters for the e—mails and he had just given up. my sisters for the e-mails and he had just given up.— had just given up. after weeks of concern today, _ had just given up. after weeks of concern today, joe _ had just given up. after weeks of concern today, joe found - had just given up. after weeks of concern today, joe found out - had just given up. after weeks of| concern today, joe found out that she has tested positive for coronavirus.— she has tested positive for coronavirus. . , , .., she has tested positive for coronavirus. . , , , coronavirus. can she be ok, can she be one of the _ coronavirus. can she be ok, can she be one of the lucky _ coronavirus. can she be ok, can she be one of the lucky ones _ coronavirus. can she be ok, can she be one of the lucky ones gets - be one of the lucky ones gets through this without being seriously ill? the fact of her being in the hospital without my mum by her side and her being terrifies and confused and her being terrifies and confused and have to face this on their own. recently having the vaccine, he believes is vital for other people, especially those to get the vaccine as soon as possible. it is important that they get _ as soon as possible. it is important that they get it _ as soon as possible. it is important that they get it first _ as soon as possible. it is important that they get it first and _ as soon as possible. it is important that they get it first and that - as soon as possible. it is important that they get it first and that it - that they get it first and that it is safe — that they get it first and that it is safe and keep them from going to hospital— is safe and keep them from going to hospital where they will be stressed out and _ hospital where they will be stressed out and they can have people with them _ out and they can have people with them and — out and they can have people with them and taking them out of their routines _ them and taking them out of their routines and all of that. certain areas _ routines and all of that. certain areas are — routines and all of that. certain areas are taking the vaccine and how do you _ areas are taking the vaccine and how do you feel— areas are taking the vaccine and how do you feel that francis hasn't gotten — do you feel that francis hasn't gotten her should since she has tested positive in is not able to have a vaccine for very long time. itjust gets so unfair. so unfair. then tomorrow night milder air pushes his way northwards once again but more heavy rain out in the west. now it's time for a look at the weather with matt. hello. 0nce we've lost the heavy evening showers across the england the eastern half of the country a little bit cooler tonight than last night. especially in eastern half of scotland where the snow on the ground, temperatures low enough for a touch of frost. and the west different story after claire start to the night it's wind and rain spreading to most parts into the morning and temperatures holding around six to 9 degrees. as from tomorrow morning maybe a bright start for early risers in the far east of the country. then a spell of rain may be about an hour or two spreading northwards and eastward for it most. followed by sunshine and showers, winds getting up to severe gail force again in the western aisles. but we will see a weather front tail and across parts of southern england and east anglia. never really clear staying cloudy here for the rain at times. should get heavier at times of the afternoon across the border strongest wins for the western aisles but it will be a blustery day. temperatures down a little bit on today's values. seven, 9 degrees across scotland. still around 12 or 13 degrees in the south. then tomorrow night milder air pushes his way northwards once again but more heavy rain out in the west. hello this is bbc news with tim willcox. the headlines. another 1.7 million more people are to be told to shield in england. it comes after experts identified more people at serious risk of covid—19. a phased return to school for pupils in scotland from next monday — starting with the youngest children first. concerns grow for the wellbeing of princess latifa, the daughter of the ruler of dubai who — in secretly recorded messages — says she's been held against her will by her billionaire father. herfather — sheikh mohammed bin rashid al maktoum is one of the richest heads of state in the world, he's claimed his daughter is in the loving care of her family. still waiting for a vaccine — the radio presenterjo whiley speaks of her fears for her sister frances who has learning difficulties and diabetes — after a covid outbreak at her care home. diversity — the final frontier — as the european space agency goes recruiting for new astronauts. more now on one of those stories — the bbc has obtained video recordings in which the daughter of the ruler of dubai claims she is being held against her will. friends say they are increasingly concerned for princess latifa's safety. well the claims come after the sheikh was condemned by the high court last year for his treatment of his family. he is one of the richest heads of state in the world and a controversial figure. but he is also an extremely well connected one. his horse racing empire has brought him into contract with the queen on a number of occasions. 0ur diplomatic correspondent, james landale, considers what impact the panorama investigation might have. sheikh mohammed bin rashid al maktoum might be prime minister of the united arab emirates and one of the richest heads of state in the world, but he is also one of the largest landowners in britain, who shares a passion for horses with the queen, and who stables in suffolk are a mainstay of british racing. his country's wealth flows through britain. in football teams, smart hotels, passengerferries, property and ports. but the sheikh is also a man who, according to a high courtjudge, not only intimidated his then wife, seen here, but also imprisoned his daughter, something latifa has now confirmed herself. world leaders now need to look at who they are calling friends and doing business with and distance themselves from sheikh mohammed until he abides by not only his own laws but international law. such is the family's influence that in 2018 it persuaded a former president of ireland and ex un human rights commission to meet the princess in dubai. mary robinson was supposedly there to prove latifa was alive but unwell. she now admits she was tricked and wants an investigation. i was misled initially by my good friend the princess because she was misled. she began to explain that latifa had quite a serious bipolar problem, and they were saying to me, very kind of in a way that was very convincing, we don't want latifa to go through any further trauma. i didn't know how to address somebody with bipolar about their trauma, and i really didn't actually want to talk to her and increase the trauma over a nice lunch. the question now is what impact these revelations, if any, may have on sheikh mohammed. buckingham palace would not comment on his relationship with the queen. is it britain getting involved because it might create a change of heart and lead to the freedom of this particular young woman? people have to be pretty candid about these things. it's not going to work. the united nations has asked sheikh mohammed's ministers for news about princess latifa, but in the end, his daughter's fate seems to lie in his hands and his alone. james landale, bbc news. dr david wearing is a specialist in uk relations with the gulf monarchies at the school of oriental and african studies, university of london. in the report summed it up didn't he really? it seems it is appalling as a country not much we can do. yeah, i'm not a country not much we can do. yeah, i'm not sure — a country not much we can do. yeah, i'm not sure that's _ a country not much we can do. yeah, i'm not sure that's quite _ a country not much we can do. yeah, i'm not sure that's quite right. - i'm not sure that's quite right. there's a couple of examples last couple of years of people who've been victims of human rights abuses in the gulf and being released because of british and american pressure. take for example the law in saudia arabia. she was released just last week. it's pretty clear she was released after a few years in prison because the saudis were worried that her case was damaging relations between them and the biden administration. which is come under administration. which is come under a lot of pressure so similarly there was academic during the surge. the regime locked him out, treated him very, very badly. the british government initially weren't very good not were quiet about it. decided diplomacy that was getting nowhere. so his fiancee spoke up, made a noise about it, the british government felt compelled to louder diplomacy. it turns out these relationships are really important to the uae. when they feel pressure from the british, the americans sometimes they do act. whether it's the uae or saudi. saudi is vulnerable to pressure from the white house. the vulnerable to pressure from the white house.— vulnerable to pressure from the white house. ., , , white house. the softer approach if the fco is the _ white house. the softer approach if the fco is the one _ white house. the softer approach if the fco is the one and _ white house. the softer approach if the fco is the one and perhaps - white house. the softer approach if the fco is the one and perhaps will| the fco is the one and perhaps will be embarked on initially. they will be embarked on initially. they will be aware, the british government will be wary about the weapons deals that have existed between the uk and the uae for decades now. hearth the uae for decades now. worth billions. actually, _ the uae for decades now. worth billions. actually, british - the uae for decades now. worth billions. actually, british arms l billions. actually, british arms exports to the uae which is not to say the british haven't been trying to broach that market for some time and haven't had much success. the americans dominate arms exports to the uae. in the french are in a close 2nd. british are long way behind. the british may export to the saudi. it's not so much that but there is a close relationship between the two countries for sure. britain is a former colonial power and there is still a lot of investment. but the investment goes both ways. british take a lot of investment from the uae and equally the uae benefits from investment come in from the british side. it certainly not to say the british are at the mercy of the uae on the contrary, britain is still one of the leading global powers. the second tier anyway. and the uae is not in that category at all. if any side has influence it's the british over the uae.— side has influence it's the british over the uae. interesting. people like this shake _ over the uae. interesting. people like this shake will _ over the uae. interesting. people like this shake will enjoy - over the uae. interesting. people like this shake will enjoy his - like this shake will enjoy his position and the highest levels of british society well through racehorses and things like that. is that a factor that could be used perhaps if he were to be frozen out of things like that by the royals and other vips? that loss of face, without exert some pressure on him? yeah, it could be. there is a of intermingling between the ruling classes in the golf ruling classes in the uk. they certainly put a lot of weight on that, a lot of prestige. the proceeds that they have with their western patrons is prestige that they can translate to domestic political sphere. it seems as though they are losing that prestige and losing that favour, it's actually damaging to them politically in their own domestic contacts. these things do matter quite a lot. contacts. these things do matter quite a lot-— quite a lot. and with the biden administration _ quite a lot. and with the biden administration now, _ quite a lot. and with the biden administration now, you - quite a lot. and with the biden| administration now, you talked quite a lot. and with the biden - administration now, you talked about the pressure on saudi arabia. do you think that actually the biden administration could be the key to more transparency with shake maktoum bearing in mind it's finally princess latifah but it's princess shops as well. she was abducted 21 years ago. and was also got the issue with princess whose effectively claiming that she would be at risk of kidnap.— be at risk of kidnap. there is a whole pattern _ be at risk of kidnap. there is a whole pattern of— be at risk of kidnap. there is a whole pattern of abuse - be at risk of kidnap. there is a whole pattern of abuse here. i be at risk of kidnap. there is a | whole pattern of abuse here. if these revelations had come out six months ago it would have fallen on stony ground because trump was still in the white house with an trump's attitude towards the crown prince in saudi arabia is always thought that he is pretty much, he got a free pass, you can do what you want. whether it's yemen or oppression. i biden has come in with a different mindset. and been quite clear that the relationship with these regimes is going to change. and human rights are abuses has gone under democrats and republican governments but the relationship is going to be recalibrated after the jump administration to some degree. so it'll happen after trump's gone and biden coming in. it could well be the uae thinks they could do without this sort of bad plug for city at a time when washington isn't great. —— publicity. with that in mind perhaps we will see these women treated a little bit better. the release that certainly the hope anyway. police in birmingham have broken up a party of around 150 people. it took place in a nightclub, which had been illegally set—up in the jewellery quarter. joanne writtle reports. nobody move! the moment police found 150 people packed into an illegal nightclub in birminghamsjewellery corner on saturday night. vip rooms there was dg set out there was a even a gym in there. so it looks like it's been used for a number of different purposes. very unsafe premises and the building is not designed for that purpose. can you imagine the fire risk that entails. structural issues putting a large number of young people into a confined space anyway. as well as the obvious dangerfrom covid. bottles were thrown and doors were smashed. one of our officers suffered a facial injury and a broken tooth. it's relatively minor and they are ok now at least to say. but it's unacceptable that our officers should be met with such violence in theirjust they are to do theirjob and keep everybody safe. thermal imaging from drones captured revelers trying to flee from the roof. 70 people were fined £200 each and the dj could now face paying £10,000. meanwhile, this is the so—called covid arms. a garage and workshop in dudley port. a dozen people left—wing officers raided by the owner was fined £1000. west midlands police say they responded to a number of calls over the weekend. their message to covid rule breakers is clear. they put themselves and the rest of the community at risk. and they've slowed down the increase in the infection and prolonged the situation which we find ourselves in. the european space agency says it wants to recruit someone with a physical disability to train as a potential astronaut. the esa is opening its application process for the first time in more than a decade and says it wants to make it more diverse and inclusive. 0ur science correspondent victoria gill reports if you've ever dreamed of a career in space exploration, now could be your chance. angle? how does that look to you? being selected to become an astronaut used to be the preserve of young men with military backgrounds. it was 1991 before the first european woman, britain's helen sharman, flew in space. now, in an effort to be much more inclusive, the agency says it plans to recruit at least one person with a disability. people with lower limb deficiency or have restricted growth. circumstances that would've made them ineligible in the past are being encouraged to apply. thea;r them ineligible in the past are being encouraged to apply. they are bein: uuite being encouraged to apply. they are being quite particular _ being encouraged to apply. they are being quite particular about - being encouraged to apply. they are being quite particular about the - being quite particular about the kind of disabilities there looking at. but this is a really great step in the right direction. being a person with a disability who wants to chase this dream, who wants to be an astronaut, i think absolutely to that dream. the an astronaut, i think absolutely to that dream-— that dream. the space agency is workin: that dream. the space agency is working with _ that dream. the space agency is working with the _ that dream. the space agency is working with the international . working with the international paralympic committee with the intention of making para— astronauts are reality. intention of making para- astronauts are reali . ., ., �* intention of making para- astronauts are reali . ., ~ ., are reality. you don't know, you could have _ are reality. you don't know, you could have been _ are reality. you don't know, you could have been excluding - are reality. you don't know, you could have been excluding the l are reality. you don't know, you i could have been excluding the best astronaut _ could have been excluding the best astronaut in the world. just purely based _ astronaut in the world. just purely based on — astronaut in the world. just purely based on the fact that they had a difference. now actually given that people _ difference. now actually given that people opportunity, hopefully they mighl— people opportunity, hopefully they might be somebody out there to be the best— might be somebody out there to be the best astronaut in the world. and that is— the best astronaut in the world. and that is super— the best astronaut in the world. and that is super exciting.— that is super exciting. every recruit will _ that is super exciting. every recruit will have _ that is super exciting. every recruit will have to - that is super exciting. every recruit will have to go - that is super exciting. every i recruit will have to go through rigorous mental and physical preparation. something the last british apps are not being recruited goes well. the british apps are not being recruited aoes well. ., , ., british apps are not being recruited aoes well. . , ., ., british apps are not being recruited aoes well. ., ., ., goes well. the training you do as an astronaut is — goes well. the training you do as an astronaut is just _ goes well. the training you do as an astronaut is just so _ goes well. the training you do as an astronaut isjust so diverse. - goes well. the training you do as an astronaut isjust so diverse. but - goes well. the training you do as an astronaut isjust so diverse. but it i astronaut is 'ust so diverse. but it is an astronaut isjust so diverse. but it is an incredible _ astronaut isjust so diverse. but it is an incredible journey. _ astronaut isjust so diverse. but it is an incredible journey. are - astronaut isjust so diverse. but it is an incredible journey. are you | is an incredible journey. are you excited to see him exit through? this is a new era of space exuloration _ this is a new era of space exploration that- this is a new era of space exploration that were - this is a new era of space . exploration that were about this is a new era of space - exploration that were about to embarked _ exploration that were about to embarked on _ exploration that were about to embarked on for— exploration that were about to embarked on for that - exploration that were about to embarked on for that were - exploration that were about to - embarked on for that were involved in out _ embarked on for that were involved in out of— embarked on for that were involved in out of his— embarked on for that were involved in out of his project— embarked on for that were involved in out of his project that _ embarked on for that were involved in out of his project that is - in out of his project that is inserted _ in out of his project that is inserted people _ in out of his project that is inserted people to - in out of his project that is inserted people to the - in out of his project that is . inserted people to the moon in out of his project that is - inserted people to the moon and a stepping _ inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone _ inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone to _ inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone to go _ inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone to go to _ inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone to go to mars. - inserted people to the moon and a stepping stone to go to mars. thisj stepping stone to go to mars. this process— stepping stone to go to mars. this process could _ stepping stone to go to mars. this process could be _ stepping stone to go to mars. this process could be potentially - stepping stone to go to mars. thisl process could be potentially picking the first _ process could be potentially picking the first europeans _ process could be potentially picking the first europeans who _ process could be potentially picking the first europeans who will- process could be potentially picking the first europeans who will set - the first europeans who will set foot on — the first europeans who will set foot on mars _ the first europeans who will set foot on mars. 50 _ the first europeans who will set foot on mars-— foot on mars. so if you like to chase your — foot on mars. so if you like to chase your own _ foot on mars. so if you like to chase your own dream - foot on mars. so if you like to chase your own dream of- chase your own dream of interplanetary travel, the online application opens in march. 846. the headlines on bbc news... another 1.7 million more people are to be told to shield in england. it comes after experts identified more people at serious risk of covid—19. a phased return to school for pupils in scotland from next monday — starting with the youngest children first. concerns grow for the wellbeing of princess latifa, the daughter of the ruler of dubai who — in secretly recorded messages — says she's been held against her will by her billionaire father. the world's biggest cryptocurrency, bitcoin, has broken through the fifty thousand dollar barrier for the first time. it comes as global financial markets continue to rally, with many investors optimistic that the worst is behind us for the pandemic. 0ur reporter nina nanji joins me. those of us have been looking up a coin it's gone up and up and out. this is the latest. absolutely, it's now at an all—time high that's having rallied strongly this year and a deed since march of last year. bitcoin is a digital currency. it is created by an unknown inventor. it's generated by computers and there is a limited amount of supply. so there's only ever going to be 21 million but coins ever in existence. that's one of the reason people ascribe it it's a supposed value. it received a boost earlier this year. that's when elon musk car company tesla said they were buying but they bought $1.5 billion worth of bitcoin. they also said they were gonna start accepting payments of the digital currency for their cars. we also saw an announcement from the likes of mastercard and bny mellon who also said they going to be accepting the digital currency as a form of payment. all of this created a sense that bitcoin was gaining momentum notjust for private investors but also with major institutions. that's really helped to fuel this rally for the top as you say, the prices risen about $50,000. that's £36,000 for the first time ever. and that's a rally since the start of the year of more than 70%. �* , , ., , than 70%. and the big institutions of course very _ than 70%. and the big institutions of course very sceptical— than 70%. and the big institutions of course very sceptical about - than 70%. and the big institutions of course very sceptical about the | of course very sceptical about the conference upside for years not getting involved. now they are. but caveat enter on this because it's volatile. ~ ,,., , caveat enter on this because it's volatile. ~ , ., ., , volatile. absolutely. regulators in articular volatile. absolutely. regulators in particular continued _ volatile. absolutely. regulators in particular continued to _ volatile. absolutely. regulators in particular continued to be - volatile. absolutely. regulators in particular continued to be pretty l particular continued to be pretty sceptical about it all because of that volatility. the volatility is partly because of the limited amount of the kind that you can trade every day. it's also partly because crypto currencies last any intrinsic value. it is not like an asset like land. all of that means it the currency could be volatile. we have seen people who have invested in bitcoin losing large amounts. not only through investing but also in the various hats and scams that are associated with it.— associated with it. away from c to, associated with it. away from crypto, markets _ associated with it. away from crypto, markets generally - associated with it. away from i crypto, markets generally doing well. . �* , ~ crypto, markets generally doing well. . �* , . ., crypto, markets generally doing well. . �*, . ., , well. that's right. we have seen rallies across _ well. that's right. we have seen rallies across financial _ well. that's right. we have seen rallies across financial markets. | rallies across financial markets. and today even wall street touching new record highs at least temporarily for some it's notjust stocks we've also seen oil prices rising, crude above $60 a barrel. that's the highest in 13 months. sterlings also been strong against the dollar and a euro if that matters. what's behind that? it seems that investors are increasingly optimistic that we may have turned a corner in the battle against the pandemic. they are looking at things like the level cases we've got which are going down in many parts of the world. it also the vaccine roll—out as well. which is gone very well in many parts of the world. on top of it all you've got bidens economic stimulus package. it seems that investors betting that the new fiscal aid we are seeing out of washington could help to power a new economic recovery. coronation street has tackled some pretty big issues over the year. now there talking about bonnet syndrome who people often experience hallucinations through site loss. last night rovers, landlord finally got a diagnosis with little known about the disease it's hope that these soaps latest storyline will help our understanding of the condition which affects more than 100,000 people around the uk. charlie haynes has theirs. i looked down and screamed _ charlie haynes has theirs. i looked down and screamed out _ charlie haynes has theirs. i looked down and screamed out really - charlie haynes has theirs. i looked j down and screamed out really loud charlie haynes has theirs. i looked - down and screamed out really loud my dog is bleeding, his plaza bleeding, his paws are bleeding. because all around him i could see pools of blood. ., . _ , , blood. for currency disturbing visions are — blood. for currency disturbing visions are a _ blood. for currency disturbing visions are a fact _ blood. for currency disturbing visions are a fact of— blood. for currency disturbing visions are a fact of life. - blood. for currency disturbing visions are a fact of life. she i blood. for currency disturbing | visions are a fact of life. she is registered blind and has charles binet syndrome. the condition featured on last nights coronation street as johnny finally got a diagnosis to explain away his hallucinations.— diagnosis to explain away his hallucinations. , ., . ., ., , hallucinations. this hallucinations it's known as _ hallucinations. this hallucinations it's known as charles _ hallucinations. this hallucinations it's known as charles boomnnet l it's known as charles boomnnet syndrome _ it's known as charles boomnnet syndrome. it's actually quite common _ syndrome. it's actually quite common. it makes you see cats and stuff? _ common. it makes you see cats and stuff? ., ~ . common. it makes you see cats and stuff? ., ~ ,, , common. it makes you see cats and stuff? ., a, , . common. it makes you see cats and stuff? ., ~ ,, , . stuff? your ms is affecting your site which means _ stuff? your ms is affecting your site which means that - stuff? your ms is affecting your site which means that as - stuff? your ms is affecting your site which means that as your l stuff? your ms is affecting your- site which means that as your vision becomes worse the regular messages from the i get interrupted. the brain fills in the gap left by the euro loss of sight. it brain fills in the gap left by the euro loss of sight.— brain fills in the gap left by the euro loss of sight. it affects up to 3096 of patients _ euro loss of sight. it affects up to 3096 of patients with _ euro loss of sight. it affects up to 3096 of patients with visual - 30% of patients with visual impairment. a consultant ophthalmologist, she treats patients with charles binet syndrome. charles binet with charles binet syndrome. charles itinet syndrome _ with charles binet syndrome. charles binet syndrome is _ with charles binet syndrome. charles binet syndrome is where _ with charles binet syndrome. charles binet syndrome is where you - binet syndrome is where you developed visual hallucinations as a result of your site loss. basically, when you start to lose your vision you have these patches where you can't see. and you get this hyperactivity of the brain. and so your brain starts to fill in those gaps with these visual hallucinations. , ., . _ hallucinations. research by the rofessor hallucinations. research by the professor at — hallucinations. research by the professor at ucl _ hallucinations. research by the professor at ucl found - hallucinations. research by the professor at ucl found more i hallucinations. research by the i professor at ucl found more than half charles bonnet patients had seen an increase in frequency of hallucinations during lockdown. and half the patients had seen their hallucinations become more sinister. seeing sinister hallucinations makes lockdown even harder for people with charles bonnet syndrome. i spoke to nina who has the condition. can you describe what you're seeing right now? so describe what you're seeing right now? ., ., �* ., now? so at the moment i'm saying a collaae of now? so at the moment i'm saying a collage of colour _ now? so at the moment i'm saying a collage of colour and _ now? so at the moment i'm saying a collage of colour and shape. - now? so at the moment i'm saying a collage of colour and shape. and - collage of colour and shape. and within the collage i have eyes staring back at me. and then around the left side here, so that's all in the left side here, so that's all in the centre and around the left side they are kind of like bubbles going up. they are kind of like bubbles going u . _ ., ., they are kind of like bubbles going u -. . ., , they are kind of like bubbles going u l , ., ., , ., ., up. nina and kirstie have a diagnosis _ up. nina and kirstie have a diagnosis to _ up. nina and kirstie have a diagnosis to explain - up. nina and kirstie have a diagnosis to explain their i diagnosis to explain their hallucinations. they worry thousands of others might not have that luxury. more and that story on the website. more and that story on the website. this time of year in texas, you can usually expect to be greeted by a mild 16 degrees celcius. not this week: the national weather service is warning that parts of texas, already in the grip of an unprecedented cold snap, will be hit by another icy storm later on tuesday. as temperatures fall across many of the central and southern states, more than two million people are without power. gail maclellan reports. not the sort of weather you usually associate with texas. arctic air has plunged south, bringing freezing temperatures, snow and ice storms to areas unaccustomed to such weather. pipes have frozen, several million people are without power, and drivers not used to wintry conditions struggle to stay on the roads. water was gone at 8.30, power was off, we're all obviously one of millions in the same boat as everyone in houston — we're out in katy. it's. it's cold. some are even more at risk — the homeless putting their faith in tents as the bone—chilling weather continues. winter storm warnings have been posted across the southern plains and as far south as the gulf coast. we're looking at the temperature finally getting back above zero celsius here in topeka on friday of this week, and by then we will have gone 14 straight days — two full weeks — with the temperature below freezing. and, again, it's been almost 40 years since that's happened. half of all americans are now under some sort of winter weather warning as the polar plunge mixes freezing temperatures with icy rain. gail maclellan, bbc news. now it's time for a look at the weather with matt. hello. another mild night to come tonight, especially in the west where rain will be falling later on. but towards eastern areas, clear skies overhead. still snow on the ground which means at temperatures will take a tumble, tonight, close to freezing in one or two spots. a cooler night across eastern england after the departure of showers, but here is the wind and rain arriving in many areas, lifting the temperature once again at around six to nine degrees by the time we get to tomorrow morning. a few degrees above freezing for some in the east. into tomorrow, we've got another weather system from the atlantic. that's going to be the story this week, bringing in milder air across the south. it's across the northern half of the country where there will be a spell of an hour or two's worth of heavy rain in the morning. sunshine comes out. very blustery winds 70 miles an hour across western scotland. southwards, i weather front trails and never really clears. lot of cloud and outbreaks of rain. even though temperatures across the northern half of the country down on this afternoon's, still above where we should be. we should be around seven or eight celsius uk wide. mildest conditions will be in the south. rain spreads its way northwards, heaviest in the west through the night and into thursday. a mild night wednesday night, but through thursday, notice we start to open the door to colder air pushing its way, not on the level but temperatures will drop. the rain more longer—lasting across the north and west of scotland, and here will turn to snow of the higher ground. temperature is closer to where they should be for the time of year, and further south after starting the day with temperatures around ten or 11 degrees, it will drop into the afternoon. it's a short blip in an otherwise very mild story, southwest winds. particularly across the hills and mustard areas in the uk, and that gives slight concern for the rest of the week —— western areas. temperatures across the board will be just about in double figures. maybe up to 17 and eastern parts, but we still have to watch out for rain at times, especially in the west. see you soon. this is bbc news — president biden makes his first official trip out of washington, selling his covid plan to the voters of wisconsin. everyone wants help, but republicans are asking who's going to pay for it. mr biden's is pushing a one—point—nine trillion dollar effort. ultimately it will be up to congress to sign off. we ask one republican congressman if he's on board. princess latifa, the missing daughter of dubai's ruler, describes being drugged and held "hostage" on her father's orders, in secret footage seen by bbc news. also in the programme. we'll take the good news when we get it! new covid cases are down significantly in the us and in the uk. are we over the worst, and how quickly can we return to some normality?