Coronavirus diary, Monday 27 July

International news has dominated the media over the past week, briefly eclipsing the coronavirus saga. 

Worrying stories of growing rifts between the UK, Russia and China.

The government withheld for months a report by the Intelligence and Security Committee on Russian influence on Britain, including the EU referendum. 

Boris Johnson feared the report would reflect badly on him and his government. He was right. It said the government had badly underestimated the Russian threat and had 'taken their eye off the ball', concentrating on the Brexit campaign.

The squabble with China is over their increasing involvement in the advanced 5G communication system, seen as a serious threat to security.

Following President Trump's lead, the prime minister has acted by winding down China's role.  

Two issues that could have a huge influence in our life. But does the public, the long quoted, 'man in the street' - now, no doubt, 'the  person in the street'  - care or worry? Is it all too remote? I doubt it. 

And it's back to coronavirus for the reason.

After the hardship and monotony of lockdown, people want to to enjoy life again. The summer is fading fast and they are determined to make the most of it.

While the majority are playing safe by holidaying in Britain, many thousands could not wait to fly to their favourite destinations, including Spain. When restrictions were lifted a matter of days ago they were off. 

But today many are regretting it.

New outbreaks in Spain have led to the government's immediate decision to reapply restrictions. People holidaying in Spain will have to self isolate for two weeks on their return home. 

The government was following its own guidelines but the suddenness of the decision has shocked the sunseekers and the aviation industry. 

Thousands of people booked to fly out over the weekend decided to cancel, for two  reasons -  the quarantine rule and the loss of insurance cover.

There was the inevitable accusation of government incompetence. 

Shambolic decision, says the opposition.

I wonder what Mr Shapps, the Transport Minister, on his getaway break - in Spain - thinks of it?