[ad_1]
Boris Johnson has altered government advice before the UK enters its eighth week of confinement.
The motto of “stay home, protect the NHS, save lives” has been changed to “stay alert, control the virus, save lives”.
The Prime Minister established a “conditional plan” to ease the coronavirus confinement in England, which establishes three phases.
But loosening the restrictions will be based on scientific advice, such as maintaining the ‘R number’ below 1.
What changes this week?
Monday
- Work: People who cannot work from home should now travel to their workplace, but avoid public transportation if possible. Those who can still work from home must continue.
Wednesday
- Exercise: “unlimited amounts” are allowed, not just once a day.
- Possible to meet a friend: sitting in the park, even sunbathing is allowed. A government minister said those activities could be done with a person from another home if the two-meter rule is followed.
- Driving to places like parks or beaches is also allowed for outdoor activities, but travel can only be done within England and with members of the same household.
- Outdoor sports are allowed with members of the same household.
- The fines for breaking the blocking rules increase from £ 60 to £ 100.
June
- Schools: some classes could be resumed, starting with primary reception students, year 1 and year 6. The prime minister said the earliest return would be June 1, but the teacher unions have expressed serious doubts.
- We hope that high school students with tests next year will have some time with teachers before the summer, said the prime minister.
- Stores: A “gradual reopening” could begin. Johnson said June 1 would be the earliest possible date and promised more details to come.
Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 could be the first to return to school
July
- Restaurants and hotels: July is the first point at which “part of the hotel industry and other public places” could reopen, the prime minister said. But only if “they are safe and enforce social distancing.”
What about the rest of the UK?
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland make their own health decisions, so Johnson’s announcement only applies to England.
Wales announced a mild relaxation on Friday so people can exercise more than once a day.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He also said that garden centers could reopen and local authorities will begin planning how to open libraries and recycling centers safely.
Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon removed the exercise limit on Sunday.
However, he warned that it was not an excuse to meet in groups in parks or beaches, sunbathe or picnic and barbecue.
The Northern Ireland roadmap will be announced this week and only minor changes are expected.
