British Prime Minister Johnson announced in a television speech a slight relaxation of the corona measures. The British will be able to go out unlimited again from Wednesday to exercise, drive somewhere or sit in the sun, but only with their family members.
People who are unable to work from home are encouraged to return to work. But they should not travel by public transport and follow all rules. Johnson emphasized the importance of the rule of keeping a distance. The fines for violation are increased. New guidelines will be introduced for employers to make working safe.
The lockdown is therefore largely maintained. “The conditions for lifting the lockdown are far from fulfilled. Therefore, most measures will not be relaxed this week,” said the British Prime Minister.
Threat level coronavirus
He also announced a system that maps the threat of the corona virus. There will be a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 (green) representing little threat and 5 (red) representing a critical situation. The level is largely determined by the reproduction number, which must remain below one. This means that an infected person infects less than one other person.
Looking at the current situation, the threat level from 4 is moving towards 3, Johnson said. The situation can vary greatly per region or city. Tomorrow he will give more explanation in parliament. He emphasized that there is a plan, but it is bound by conditions. “If there are outbreaks, we brake.”
Millions of tests
In order to reduce the number of infections, the focus should be on nursing homes and healthcare, Johnson said. Among other things, he wants a test system that is unparalleled. He spoke of “millions and millions of tests.”
The next step is to examine whether shops and primary schools can be partially reopened from 1 June. As of July 1, part of the leisure industry and other public places would open again.
A precondition for taking every subsequent step is that the threat level allows it. “Otherwise, we just have to wait for it to come.”
“We get out of this stronger and better. We need to stay alert, get the virus under control and save lives.”
–
