skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--Coronavirus lockdown changes will be 'modest' and 'small'

The public have been told not to expect widespread changes to the coronavirus lockdown in England when Boris Johnson addresses the nation this weekend .
Speaking at the daily COVID-19 briefing , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said any short term changes to the coronavirus measures will be `` modest , small , incremental and very carefully monitored '' .
In response to a question from Sky 's political editor Beth Rigby , he added : `` If we find in the future the R level [ the rate of infection ] goes back up or that people are n't following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability then to put back measures in place . ''
Mr Raab also said the existing rules would continue to apply over the bank holiday weekend .
He added : `` For the moment it is really important , particularly as people look towards a warm bank holiday weekend , that we continue to follow the guidance in place at this time . ''
A total of 30,615 people have died after testing positive for coronavirus , with the UK having the highest recorded death toll in Europe .
The lockdown was introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spread of COVID-19 .
By law it must be reviewed every three weeks , with the latest deadline falling on Thursday .
The prime minister will set out how some of the measures will be eased on Sunday evening , with some changes potentially taking effect as early as Monday .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But people have been warned not to expect a widespread relaxation of the rules , with Downing Street insisting that the alterations will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's spokesman said the PM would use `` maximum caution '' when starting to ease some of the strict social distancing measures .
`` We are at a critical moment in the fight against the virus and we will not do anything that risks the progress the British public has made , '' he told journalists earlier on Thursday .
The comments came after a number of newspaper front pages ran with headlines featuring phrases like `` lockdown freedom beckons '' and `` first steps to freedom '' , raising fears of mixed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the changes , the PM is preparing to amend the `` stay at home '' slogan and relax the one form of exercise a day limit .
With summer approaching , he may give the go-ahead to picnics , trips to the park and outings in the countryside .
But English primary schools are unlikely to re-open until the end of May , secondary schools not before the end of June and it could be the end of August before pubs and restaurants open their doors again .
Mr Raab said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` contains appropriate measures to be taken at appropriate milestones , subject to very clear conditions '' .
`` There will be detailed guidance to help inform , advise and reassure the public , businesses and other organisations , '' the foreign secretary said .
`` To get this right , we have set milestones .
Some changes can confidently be introduced more quickly than others and some of those other ones will take longer to introduce . ''
The UK government has stressed that it wants all parts of the UK to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland will be able to take their own decisions and could decide to move at a different pace .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the lockdown `` must be extended '' in Scotland and warned that she would not be `` pressured '' by Westminster into easing restrictions `` prematurely '' .
The Welsh government has said speculation on how lockdown measures could be lifted in England risked sending `` mixed messages '' to people in other parts of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold a news conference at 12.30pm on Friday to set out his government 's next steps with the lockdown .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said his party supported a continuation of the lockdown and urged people to stick to the rules over the weekend .
`` The health and safety of the nation has to come first and therefore we can not lift these restrictions until we 're clear that the infection is under control , '' he said .
Asked if he thought there had been mixed messages from the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs to be absolute clarity that we all must follow the rules until lockdown is lifted .
`` It does n't mean we ca n't discuss what comes next , but we 've got to follow those rules . ''
Acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said there were `` serious questions about the consequences of any significant relaxation '' of the lockdown and called for ministers to publish their evidence for making any changes .

The public have been told not to expect widespread changes to the coronavirus lockdown in England when Boris Johnson addresses the nation this weekend.
Speaking at the daily COVID-19 briefing, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said any short term changes to the coronavirus measures will be "modest, small, incremental and very carefully monitored".
In response to a question from Sky's political editor Beth Rigby, he added: "If we find in the future the R level [the rate of infection] goes back up or that people aren't following the rules, we must have the ability then to put back measures in place."
Image: Boris Johnson will address the nation on Sunday evening
Mr Raab also said the existing rules would continue to apply over the bank holiday weekend.
He added: "For the moment it is really important, particularly as people look towards a warm bank holiday weekend, that we continue to follow the guidance in place at this time."
A total of 30,615 people have died after testing positive for coronavirus, with the UK having the highest recorded death toll in Europe.
The lockdown was introduced on 23 March to try to contain the spread of COVID-19.
By law it must be reviewed every three weeks, with the latest deadline falling on Thursday.
The prime minister will set out how some of the measures will be eased on Sunday evening, with some changes potentially taking effect as early as Monday.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But people have been warned not to expect a widespread relaxation of the rules, with Downing Street insisting that the alterations will be "very limited".
Mr Johnson's spokesman said the PM would use "maximum caution" when starting to ease some of the strict social distancing measures.
"We are at a critical moment in the fight against the virus and we will not do anything that risks the progress the British public has made," he told journalists earlier on Thursday.
The comments came after a number of newspaper front pages ran with headlines featuring phrases like "lockdown freedom beckons" and "first steps to freedom", raising fears of mixed messages confusing the public.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 Starmer on UK deaths: 'How did it come to this?'
As part of the changes, the PM is preparing to amend the "stay at home" slogan and relax the one form of exercise a day limit.
With summer approaching, he may give the go-ahead to picnics, trips to the park and outings in the countryside.
But English primary schools are unlikely to re-open until the end of May, secondary schools not before the end of June and it could be the end of August before pubs and restaurants open their doors again.
Mr Raab said the government's roadmap for the next phase "contains appropriate measures to be taken at appropriate milestones, subject to very clear conditions".
"There will be detailed guidance to help inform, advise and reassure the public, businesses and other organisations," the foreign secretary said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:37 Scotland lockdown 'must be extended'
"To get this right, we have set milestones. Some changes can confidently be introduced more quickly than others and some of those other ones will take longer to introduce."
The UK government has stressed that it wants all parts of the UK to move together in easing the lockdown.
But leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be able to take their own decisions and could decide to move at a different pace.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the lockdown "must be extended" in Scotland and warned that she would not be "pressured" by Westminster into easing restrictions "prematurely".
The Welsh government has said speculation on how lockdown measures could be lifted in England risked sending "mixed messages" to people in other parts of the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:18 The UK government is 'failing to test people'
First Minister Mark Drakeford will hold a news conference at 12.30pm on Friday to set out his government's next steps with the lockdown.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said his party supported a continuation of the lockdown and urged people to stick to the rules over the weekend.
"The health and safety of the nation has to come first and therefore we cannot lift these restrictions until we're clear that the infection is under control," he said.
Asked if he thought there had been mixed messages from the government, Sir Keir said: "There needs to be absolute clarity that we all must follow the rules until lockdown is lifted.
"It doesn't mean we can't discuss what comes next, but we've got to follow those rules."
Acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said there were "serious questions about the consequences of any significant relaxation" of the lockdown and called for ministers to publish their evidence for making any changes.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--Easing the lockdown: What might change - if anything - on Monday?

Boris Johnson will on Sunday set out the government 's plan for lifting coronavirus lockdown measures .
The prime minister has promised some COVID-19 restrictions in England could be eased as soon as Monday .
However , cabinet minister Brandon Lewis warned people `` it would be wrong to get too carried away '' at the prospect of lockdown measures lifting .
He told Sky News that the government would be `` very cautious '' due to the risk of a second spike in coronavirus infections .
So , what might - if anything - change from next week ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , manufacturing and farming , have been able to continue working during the UK 's lockdown .
And essential retailers , largely supermarkets and food shops , have also been allowed to remain open .
However , with more than six million Britons furloughed from their jobs , the prime minister has told MPs he wants to `` enable people safely and securely to go back to work and earn their pay packets '' .
Business groups , major employers and trade unions have received draft government guidelines setting out how companies can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eased .
The guidance includes requirements to maintain social distancing of two metres , demarcating office space with tape on floors and desks , and restricting access to lifts .
To reduce congestion in offices , shifts are likely to be staggered and many staff who can work from home will be required to continue to do so for many months to come .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Where maintaining a two-metre gap is not possible however , the guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment should be considered , along with extra cleaning measures , and the use of screens as is the case in supermarkets .
However , it is still unclear how many workers might be encouraged to return to their workplaces as early as next week .
Outdoor retail and some offices may be among the first to be allowed to reopen , with customer-facing businesses such as pubs , entertainment venues and restaurants likely to face a longer wait .
The government has come under pressure from Conservative MPs to allow garden centres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab hinted at such action when he promised ministers would keep the issue `` under very close review '' .
As the government prepares to encourage more people to go back to their workplaces , the prime minister has spoken of running a `` bigger and more expansive '' London Underground service so that `` people can observe social distancing '' .
He also promised , on Sunday , to set out `` mitigations to help people who , for reasons of social distancing , can not use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a huge amount of planning going into helping people to get to work other than by mass transit , '' Mr Johnson added .
He suggested one means could be encouraging more people to use bicycles to get to work in a `` new golden age for cycling '' .
Britons could be encouraged to wear face coverings , especially on public transport , when lockdown measures are eased .
The prime minister has previously said face coverings will be `` useful '' to `` give people confidence they can go back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promised to say more about face coverings when he announces the next stage of coronavirus measures this weekend .
In Germany , which has begun lifting its lockdown , some states will initially allow restaurants to serve customers outside as they reopen .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock hinted at cafes in the UK being allowed to do the same , telling Sky News : `` We 're very careful to follow the clinical advice on the two-metre rule .
`` But there 's also very strong evidence that outdoors the spread is much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workarounds that some businesses , for instance cafes - especially over the summer - might be able to put into place . ''
Mr Johnson is expected to announce that people can do as much exercise outdoors as they like from Monday .
Currently , Britons should only be exercising outdoors - alone or with a member of their household - once a day .
However , despite the possible easing of that restriction , gyms and playgrounds are expected to remain closed .
The prime minister might also give the go-ahead to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outings in the countryside .
But beaches are still likely to be out of bounds , it has been reported .
Ministers have previously hinted that golf , fishing and bowls - sports in which social distancing is easier to maintain - might be among the first to be permitted to resume .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has suggested the easing of the UK 's lockdown could include the possibility of Britons joining a social `` bubble '' containing small groups of friends and family from different households for gatherings , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An immediate first step might be allowing two households to join up together as one such `` bubble '' .
Schools in the UK have been closed - except for the attendance of children of key workers - since 20 March , but Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has told MPs the government is planning the `` phased '' reopening of English schools .
Ofsted 's chief inspector has told Sky News there is a `` great deal of logic '' in allowing younger children to return to school first .
And Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things we want to do as fast as we can is get certainly primary schools back . ''
However , the government has been coy on when that might actually happen .
Mr Hancock told Sky News : `` I understand the frustration of people over will it be June , will it be September , what age groups will it be because of course other countries have taken different decisions for different age groups .
`` I 'm tempted to prejudge those decisions but we do n't yet have the data but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relatively soon we might be able to say so . ''
The Welsh government has said schools will not reopen for the majority of pupils until at least 1 June .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland has set out how courts could soon employ social distancing measures .
`` We 'll have to use , for example , two courts where we would have used one in the past , so that jurors can retire into a safe space and also be spaced out and distanced within the court , '' he told ITV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that happening in the next few weeks , but it will be a slow build-up . ''
Ahead of the UK 's lockdown , all criminal trials expected to last more than three days were postponed in England and Wales .
Up until now , the government has been urging Britons to `` stay home , protect the NHS , save lives '' .
However , in a hint of how the government 's messaging might alter from Monday , the prime minister recently tweeted : `` Stay home , slow the spread @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson will set out the government's plan this evening for lifting coronavirus lockdown measures.
The prime minister has promised some COVID-19 restrictions in England could be eased as soon as Monday.
However, cabinet minister Brandon Lewis warned people "it would be wrong to get too carried away" at the prospect of lockdown measures being lifted.
He told Sky News the government would be "very cautious" due to the risk of a second spike in coronavirus infections.
So, what (if anything) might change from next week?
Workplaces
Companies in some sectors, including construction, manufacturing and farming, have been able to continue working during the UK's lockdown.
And essential retailers, largely supermarkets and food shops, have also been allowed to remain open.
However, with more than six million Britons furloughed from their jobs, the prime minister has told MPs he wants to "enable people safely and securely to go back to work and earn their pay packets".
Advertisement
Watch Sky News at 7pm tonight for the prime minister's pre-recorded address to the nation over ending the lockdown.
Image: Britons might be allowed to exercise outside as much as they like
Business groups, major employers and trade unions have received draft government guidelines setting out how companies can resume working safely.
The guidance includes requirements to maintain social distancing of two metres, demarcating office space with tape on floors and desks, and restricting access to lifts.
To reduce congestion, shifts are likely to be staggered and many staff who can work from home will be required to do so for many months to come.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Where maintaining a two-metre gap is not possible however, the guidelines say that the use of personal protective equipment should be considered, along with extra cleaning measures, and the use of screens as in supermarkets.
However, it is still unclear how many workers might be encouraged to return to their workplaces as early as next week.
Garden centres
Outdoor retail and some offices may be among the first to be allowed to reopen, with customer-facing businesses such as pubs, entertainment venues and restaurants likely to face a longer wait.
The government has come under pressure from Conservative MPs to allow garden centres to be among the first businesses to reopen.
They will be able to reopen on Wednesday.
Transport
As the government prepares to encourage more people to go back to their workplaces, the prime minister has spoken of running a "bigger and more expansive" London Underground service so that "people can observe social distancing".
He also promised to set out "mitigations to help people who, for reasons of social distancing, cannot use mass transit".
Image: The PM has spoken of a 'new golden age of cycling'
"There will be a huge amount of planning going into helping people to get to work other than by mass transit," Mr Johnson added.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced a £250m package to boost cycling and walking, after warning that on some forms of public transport only one in 10 passengers will be able to travel to ensure social distancing.
Face masks
Britons could be encouraged to wear face coverings, especially on public transport, when lockdown measures are eased.
The prime minister has previously said face coverings will be "useful" to "give people confidence they can go back to work".
Mr Johnson has promised to say more about face coverings when he announces the next stage of coronavirus measures this weekend.
Cafes
In Germany, which has begun lifting its lockdown, some states will initially allow restaurants to serve customers outside as they reopen.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock hinted at cafes in the UK being allowed to do the same, telling Sky News: "We're very careful to follow the clinical advice on the two-metre rule.
"But there's also very strong evidence that outdoors the spread is much, much lower so there may be workarounds that some businesses, for instance cafes - especially over the summer - might be able to put into place."
Image: Britons could be encouraged to wear face masks when they return to work
Exercise
Mr Johnson is expected to announce that people can do as much exercise outdoors as they like from Monday.
Currently, Britons should only be exercising outdoors - alone or with a member of their household - once a day.
However, despite the possible easing of that restriction, gyms and playgrounds are expected to remain closed.
The prime minister might also give the go-ahead to picnics, trips to the park and outings in the countryside.
But beaches are still likely to be out of bounds, it has been reported.
Ministers have previously hinted that golf, fishing and bowls - sports in which social distancing is easier to maintain - might be among the first to be permitted to resume.
Social bubbles
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has suggested the easing of the UK's lockdown could include the possibility of Britons joining a social "bubble" containing small groups of friends and family from different households for gatherings, even if that was only possible outdoors.
A first step might be allowing two households to join up together as one such "bubble".
One thing the government will be watching very closely in this decision will be the R number - the reproduction number of the virus, a measure of how fast it's spreading.
At the start of the epidemic, R was 3 - meaning every infected person was passing the virus to around three other people. Now it is somewhere between 0.5 and 0.9.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 45:41 Ask the Health Secretary: Watch in full
Schools
Schools in the UK have been closed - except for the attendance of children of key workers - since 20 March, but Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has told MPs the government is planning the "phased" reopening of English schools.
Ofsted's chief inspector has told Sky News there is a "great deal of logic" in allowing younger children to return to school first.
And Mr Johnson has said: "One of the things we want to do as fast as we can is get certainly primary schools back."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 'Normality' of school important for children
However, the government has been coy on when that might actually happen.
Mr Hancock told Sky News: "I understand the frustration of people over will it be June, will it be September, what age groups will it be because of course other countries have taken different decisions for different age groups.
"I'm tempted to prejudge those decisions but we don't yet have the data but we are coming to a position where relatively soon we might be able to say so."
The Welsh government has said schools will not reopen for the majority of pupils until at least 1 June.
On Saturday, teaching unions wrote to the government with a list of key measures that must be met before pupils in England can safely return to their desks.
Courts
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland has set out how courts could soon employ social distancing measures.
"We'll have to use, for example, two courts where we would have used one in the past, so that jurors can retire into a safe space and also be spaced out and distanced within the court," he told ITV.
"We'll start to see that happening in the next few weeks, but it will be a slow build-up."
Ahead of the UK's lockdown, all criminal trials expected to last more than three days were postponed in England and Wales.
A new government slogan?
Up until now, the government has been urging Britons to "stay home, protect the NHS, save lives".
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The prime minister recently tweeted: "Stay home, slow the spread, keep going", although on Saturday evening it appeared the decision was made for "Stay alert, control the virus, save lives".


skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--Leaked report reveals govt was warned pandemic plans were 'not sufficient'

A secret report warned three years ago that the UK 's plans for dealing with a health pandemic were `` not sufficient '' , it has been revealed .
The leaked Whitehall document drawn up three years ago said contingencies worked up in case of an outbreak such as the coronavirus crisis would not be able to `` cope '' .
The 57-page dossier by Public Health England , obtained by The Guardian newspaper , was commissioned after a 2016 simulation of a flu pandemic codenamed Exercise Cygnus .
It identified a `` lack of joint tactical-level plans '' for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services outstripping local capacity .
Concerns were also identified about if the social care system would be able to provide the level of support needed .
Ministers have previously acknowledged the report exists but refused to publish it .
They have still faced questions over it because a flu pandemic was top of the government 's risk register for the last few years .
More than 30,000 people in the UK have died with COVID-19 so far , making the country 's death toll the highest in Europe and second highest in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drill document cautioned that the possible impacts of a pandemic were not universally understood across Whitehall .
It said : `` The UK 's preparedness and response , in terms of its plans , policies and capability , is currently not sufficient to cope with the extreme demands of a severe pandemic that will have a nationwide impact across all sectors . ''
Labour said the dossier showed there were `` clear warnings that we were not properly prepared for a pandemic '' .
Shadow social care minister Liz Kendall said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sadly true as the unfolding tragedy in our care homes shows .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Care providers confirm they were not involved in subsequent discussions on how to put these problems right .
`` Ministers must be clear about why they failed to act on the report 's recommendations and what they will now do to fully protect and resource these vital services in future . ''

A secret report warned three years ago that the UK's plans for dealing with a health pandemic were "not sufficient", it has been revealed.
The leaked Whitehall document drawn up three years ago said contingencies worked up in case of an outbreak such as the coronavirus crisis would not be able to "cope".
The 57-page dossier by Public Health England, obtained by The Guardian newspaper, was commissioned after a 2016 simulation of a flu pandemic codenamed Exercise Cygnus.
Image: The report said there was not universal understanding about the effects of a pandemic across Whitehall
It identified a "lack of joint tactical-level plans" for such an emergency, with demand for services outstripping local capacity.
Concerns were also identified about if the social care system would be able to provide the level of support needed.
Ministers have previously acknowledged the report exists but refused to publish it.
They have still faced questions over it because a flu pandemic was top of the government's risk register for the last few years.
Image: More than 30,000 people have died in the UK so far
More than 30,000 people in the UK have died with COVID-19 so far, making the country's death toll the highest in Europe and second highest in the world after the US.
The Cygnus drill document cautioned that the possible impacts of a pandemic were not universally understood across Whitehall.
Advertisement
It said: "The UK's preparedness and response, in terms of its plans, policies and capability, is currently not sufficient to cope with the extreme demands of a severe pandemic that will have a nationwide impact across all sectors."
Labour said the dossier showed there were "clear warnings that we were not properly prepared for a pandemic".
Shadow social care minister Liz Kendall said: "These warnings have now proved all too sadly true as the unfolding tragedy in our care homes shows.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Care providers confirm they were not involved in subsequent discussions on how to put these problems right.
"Ministers must be clear about why they failed to act on the report's recommendations and what they will now do to fully protect and resource these vital services in future."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--Scotland lockdown 'must be extended' - easing it 'very risky', Sturgeon says

The coronavirus lockdown `` must be extended '' in Scotland and easing any restrictions would be `` very , very risky '' , Nicola Sturgeon has announced .
Scotland 's first minister said she would prefer all four UK nations to keep the same rules and only change them in tandem - after Boris Johnson revealed he wants to `` get going '' on plans to slightly reduce restrictions in England .
But she did say she is considering allowing people in Scotland to exercise outdoors more than once a day .
A further 59 people have died in Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,762 .
Across the UK there have been more than 30,000 fatalities .
Ahead of an expected address by the prime minister to the nation on Sunday , Ms Sturgeon said she would `` not be pressured into lifting restrictions prematurely '' and risking a second peak .
`` If the prime minister decides that he wants to move at a faster pace for England than I consider is right for Scotland that is of course his right , '' she told journalists at the daily briefing in Edinburgh .
`` I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him for doing that . ''
Ms Sturgeon said what is known as the `` R number '' - the average number of people someone with the virus passes it on to - could be `` hovering '' around one , and she was not confident it is `` comfortably below '' that number yet .
She added dropping the `` stay at home message '' next week would be `` potentially catastrophic mistake '' .
The Scottish government 's next major review point for lockdown measures will come in three weeks - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be made at any point before then .
Ms Sturgeon told Sky News there could be `` very defensible , justifiable reasons '' why different nations could diverge on lockdown .
`` The only thing that matters to me is that we take the decisions that are best going to suppress and tackle this virus , '' she said .
`` I think that 's what all of us in leadership positions across the UK are doing . ''
She and other leaders of the devolved governments in Wales and Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later on Thursday , after the prime minister holds a cabinet meeting .
Sky News ' Scotland correspondent James Matthews said Ms Sturgeon was explaining the country is `` in a different place , the circumstances are different and the figures are different '' .
`` She said she would want to see where the figures are in a week 's time , perhaps a hint that in a week 's time there will be a significant reassessment - but that was n't confirmed , '' he added .

The coronavirus lockdown "must be extended" in Scotland and easing any restrictions would be "very, very risky", Nicola Sturgeon has announced.
Scotland's first minister said she would prefer all four UK nations to keep the same rules and only change them in tandem - after Boris Johnson revealed he wants to "get going" on plans to slightly reduce restrictions in England.
But she did say she is considering allowing people in Scotland to exercise outdoors more than once a day.
Image: The lockdown measures in Scotland will be reviewed in three weeks
A further 59 people have died in Scotland with COVID-19 - taking the total to 1,762. Across the UK there have been more than 30,000 fatalities.
Ahead of an expected address by the prime minister to the nation on Sunday, Ms Sturgeon said she would "not be pressured into lifting restrictions prematurely" and risking a second peak.
"If the prime minister decides that he wants to move at a faster pace for England than I consider is right for Scotland that is of course his right," she told journalists at the daily briefing in Edinburgh.
"I will respect that and I will not criticise him for doing that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 PM: New measures in England may 'get going' from Monday
Ms Sturgeon said what is known as the "R number" - the average number of people someone with the virus passes it on to - could be "hovering" around one, and she was not confident it is "comfortably below" that number yet.
She added dropping the "stay at home message" next week would be "potentially catastrophic mistake".
Advertisement
Image: People may be allowed to exercise outdoors more than once a day
The Scottish government's next major review point for lockdown measures will come in three weeks - on Thursday 28 May - but changes can be made at any point before then.
Ms Sturgeon told Sky News there could be "very defensible, justifiable reasons" why different nations could diverge on lockdown.
Image: Deaths across the UK stand at more than 29,000
"The only thing that matters to me is that we take the decisions that are best going to suppress and tackle this virus," she said.
"I think that's what all of us in leadership positions across the UK are doing."
She and other leaders of the devolved governments in Wales and Northern Ireland are holding a call with Mr Johnson later on Thursday, after the prime minister holds a cabinet meeting.
Sky News' Scotland correspondent James Matthews said Ms Sturgeon was explaining the country is "in a different place, the circumstances are different and the figures are different".
"She said she would want to see where the figures are in a week's time, perhaps a hint that in a week's time there will be a significant reassessment - but that wasn't confirmed," he added.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--'Very limited' lockdown changes in England next week - Downing Street

Lockdown changes in England from next week will be `` very limited '' , Boris Johnson 's spokesman has confirmed .
The prime minister will use `` maximum caution '' when starting to ease some of the strict social distancing measures that have been in force for nearly seven weeks during the coronavirus crisis , his spokesman said .
He told reporters on Thursday : `` We are at a critical moment in the fight against the virus and we will not do anything that risks the progress the British public has made .
More than 30,000 people have died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest number of deaths in Europe .
Mr Johnson revealed at Prime Minister 's Questions this week that he wants to `` get going '' with tweaking some lockdown measures from Monday .
But Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the stay at home message will be extended for another three weeks .
She insisted she will not be pressured into changing anything too early that would be `` very , very risky '' .
Measures in Wales and Northern Ireland will be decided by the devolved governments in each nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a video call on Thursday ahead of his planned TV address to the nation this Sunday on the next stage of the lockdown , now that the peak of deaths appears to have passed .
His spokesman said the PM told the cabinet : `` We are not going to do anything that could risk a second peak .
`` We will proceed with maximum caution , closely track impact of easing measures and will not hesitate to change track if required . ''
As part of the changes , Mr Johnson is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home '' slogan and relax the limit on going out to exercise once a day only .
With summer approaching , he may give the go-ahead to picnics , trips to the park and outings in the countryside , Sky 's chief political correspondent Jon Craig said .
But English primary schools are unlikely to re-open until the end of May , secondary schools not before the end of June and it could be the end of August before pubs and restaurants open their doors again .
Mr Johnson is expected to field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday next week .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer 's spokesman said he and other opposition leaders held a `` constructive '' call with the prime minister but pressed for `` a national consensus on the next phase '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Plaid Cymru 's Westminster leader claimed briefings about the strategy had bred confusion and led people to think wrongly changes had come into effect before the Bank Holiday weekend .
`` If his commitment to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean anything , the Welsh , Scottish and Northern Irish governments must agree to any changes to the current approach , '' she said .

Lockdown changes in England from next week will be "very limited", Boris Johnson's spokesman has confirmed.
The prime minister will use "maximum caution" when starting to ease some of the strict social distancing measures that have been in force for nearly seven weeks during the coronavirus crisis, his spokesman said.
He told reporters on Thursday: "We are at a critical moment in the fight against the virus and we will not do anything that risks the progress the British public has made.
Image: Boris Johnson will give a TV address on Sunday on the next stage of the lockdown
More than 30,000 people have died with COVID-19 in the UK - the highest number of deaths in Europe.
Mr Johnson revealed at Prime Minister's Questions this week that he wants to "get going" with tweaking some lockdown measures from Monday.
But Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the stay at home message will be extended for another three weeks.
She insisted she will not be pressured into changing anything too early that would be "very, very risky".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:37 Lockdown changes 'not yet discussed' with Scottish govt
Measures in Wales and Northern Ireland will be decided by the devolved governments in each nation.
Mr Johnson gathered senior ministers for a video call on Thursday ahead of his planned TV address to the nation this Sunday on the next stage of the lockdown, now that the peak of deaths appears to have passed.
Advertisement
His spokesman said the PM told the cabinet: "We are not going to do anything that could risk a second peak.
"We will proceed with maximum caution, closely track impact of easing measures and will not hesitate to change track if required."
As part of the changes, Mr Johnson is preparing to amend the "stay at home" slogan and relax the limit on going out to exercise once a day only.
With summer approaching, he may give the go-ahead to picnics, trips to the park and outings in the countryside, Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig said.
But English primary schools are unlikely to re-open until the end of May, secondary schools not before the end of June and it could be the end of August before pubs and restaurants open their doors again.
Mr Johnson is expected to field questions from MPs about his plan on Monday next week.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer's spokesman said he and other opposition leaders held a "constructive" call with the prime minister but pressed for "a national consensus on the next phase".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Plaid Cymru's Westminster leader claimed briefings about the strategy had bred confusion and led people to think wrongly changes had come into effect before the Bank Holiday weekend.
"If his commitment to the four nations of the UK is to mean anything, the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish governments must agree to any changes to the current approach," she said.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-08--Javid proposes different lockdown rules based on age to reopen economy

Britain must turn its attention to the economy now it is through the peak of the coronavirus crisis , Sajid Javid has told Sky News .
In his first exclusive television interview since stepping down as chancellor , he said the government `` rightly put public health first '' .
But he urged Boris Johnson to now focus on economic recovery after questioning the Bank of England 's prediction that the economy will bounce back from what it predicts will be the deepest recession in 300 years .
`` I think a V-shaped recovery will be challenging .
And I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's possible , '' Mr Javid said .
`` It has made a whole set of assumptions around relaxing the lockdown and ending it completely in three months .
And it says itself that it 's at best uncertain .
`` I do think it 's just like the virus itself , let 's hope for the best but let 's plan for the worst , and that means you 're taking whatever action you think is necessary and possible right now to make sure we do get the fastest recovery possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ praise for his protege and successor Rishi Sunak , who he said was `` absolutely right '' to `` use fiscal firepower to intervene and mitigate '' in the short term .
However , he said attention should now be paid to ensuring the health of the banking system to aid economic recovery , while urging ministers to `` run the economy hot '' in order to balance controlling the coronavirus outbreak with the wider impact of a prolonged lockdown .
When it comes to the banking system , the former chancellor and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the health of our banks '' and said they might have to be forced to raise more capital to ensure they do not just absorb losses but also continue lending .
`` Because of the action that has taken place over the last 10 years since the last financial crisis , the banks are capitalised , they 've got more sort of buffers , as it were , than ever before , so they can absorb the expected losses based on the Bank of England scenario .
`` But we do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absorb losses .
We need banks that are able to lend to British businesses particularly our SMEs , over half of SMEs rely only on bank loans they 're their main source of debt .
`` So , we need to have banks that are n't taking let 's say sort of a 'safety-first crouch position ' .
We have to stand up tall , be confident and lend to British business .
That 's what I 'm concerned about . ''
Ministers might also need to provide some sort of support for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The second thing is that maybe the government should dust off some of the plans that existed after the last financial crisis on what was called a sort of 'bad bank ' policy , which was never properly implemented in the end because it was n't needed , '' he said .
`` You might need something .
You have some kind of support for banks with some of the worst-performing loans and try to help the banks in that way , so that they can in turn help the economy and lend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prominent Conservative to also publicly call for the economy to be opened as swiftly as possible so that new cases and casualties of the virus would continue but within the capacity of the NHS to cope .
`` We 're going to have to co-exist with this virus for I think many months , if not potentially years .
But we 've got to find a way forward and that does mean you 're relaxing , as much as you can , '' he said .
`` Running the economy hot you could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are trying to take into account , not just the sort of necessity to control the virus , but also the wider impact on society - those job losses , those opportunities foregone , particularly for younger people .
`` The rise of domestic violence , child abuse , of mental health cases .
All of that needs to be taken into account . ''
He is publicly making the argument that the current chancellor and Michael Gove , the Cabinet Office minister , have reportedly been making privately in recent weeks - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ donors .
Mr Javid is of the view that the government should begin lifting restrictions if the R number is below 1 - the rate where new infections are no longer rising - rather than waiting until the virus has been completely suppressed .
`` As well as listening to the scientists we also need to think carefully about the impact on the rest of society and the economy and jobs and wider social impacts and that does mean , I think , that when it comes to opening up you want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can , '' the former chancellor said .
But Mr Javid also knows that reigniting the economy risks reigniting the spread of the disease .
One option might be to have different rules for different age groups in order to both try to protect the elderly and those more vulnerable to COVID-19 while also getting the economy , and the younger workforce moving once more .
`` We should n't rule out an option that focuses on protecting the most vulnerable but gives more freedom to others , '' he added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate of younger people , say under the age of 45 , is a lot lower than others .
And it might be the case that in the future we can find a way that we focus our protection on those that are most vulnerable . ''
In the longer term , Mr Javid , an instinctive Thatcherite , wants Britain to find a way to return to fiscal rules and live within its means .
The Institute of Fiscal Studies ( IFS ) has estimated the UK could be sitting on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the year - five times the amount predicted before the coronavirus crisis hit .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The prime minister has made it clear he is opposed to any more austerity to balance the books .
His former chancellor is clear he is opposed - and in this he speaks for many Conservative MPs - to tax rises which he warns will be `` self-defeating '' and `` strangle any economic recovery '' .
`` Many things will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one thing that should n't change is our understanding of the economic model that leads to the highest growth rate possible which is still going to be a free-enterprise , low tax , competitive economy .
`` This is the best way to make sure that we are earning enough as a country to pay for the public services we all rely on .
`` It was true then , and it 's true now .
And that 's going to be critical , that we stick with the economic model that we @ @ @ @

Britain must turn its attention to the economy now it is through the peak of the coronavirus crisis, Sajid Javid has told Sky News.
In his first exclusive television interview since stepping down as chancellor, he said the government "rightly put public health first".
But he urged Boris Johnson to now focus on economic recovery after questioning the Bank of England's prediction that the economy will bounce back from what it predicts will be the deepest recession in 300 years.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:15 'The economy will recover in 2021'
"I think a V-shaped recovery will be challenging. And I know the Bank of England has said it's possible," Mr Javid said.
"It has made a whole set of assumptions around relaxing the lockdown and ending it completely in three months. And it says itself that it's at best uncertain.
"I do think it's just like the virus itself, let's hope for the best but let's plan for the worst, and that means you're taking whatever action you think is necessary and possible right now to make sure we do get the fastest recovery possible."
Mr Javid is full of praise for his protege and successor Rishi Sunak, who he said was "absolutely right" to "use fiscal firepower to intervene and mitigate" in the short term.
However, he said attention should now be paid to ensuring the health of the banking system to aid economic recovery, while urging ministers to "run the economy hot" in order to balance controlling the coronavirus outbreak with the wider impact of a prolonged lockdown.
Image: Chancellor Rishi Sunak
When it comes to the banking system, the former chancellor and investment banker said he is "worried about the health of our banks" and said they might have to be forced to raise more capital to ensure they do not just absorb losses but also continue lending.
Advertisement
"Because of the action that has taken place over the last 10 years since the last financial crisis, the banks are capitalised, they've got more sort of buffers, as it were, than ever before, so they can absorb the expected losses based on the Bank of England scenario.
"But we don't need banks that are just able to absorb losses. We need banks that are able to lend to British businesses particularly our SMEs, over half of SMEs rely only on bank loans they're their main source of debt.
"So, we need to have banks that aren't taking let's say sort of a 'safety-first crouch position'. We have to stand up tall, be confident and lend to British business. That's what I'm concerned about."
Ministers might also need to provide some sort of support for banks for their worst-performing loans.
"The second thing is that maybe the government should dust off some of the plans that existed after the last financial crisis on what was called a sort of 'bad bank' policy, which was never properly implemented in the end because it wasn't needed," he said.
"You might need something. You have some kind of support for banks with some of the worst-performing loans and try to help the banks in that way, so that they can in turn help the economy and lend."
Mr Javid is the most prominent Conservative to also publicly call for the economy to be opened as swiftly as possible so that new cases and casualties of the virus would continue but within the capacity of the NHS to cope.
Image: Mr Javid is full of praise for his protege Rishi Sunak
"We're going to have to co-exist with this virus for I think many months, if not potentially years. But we've got to find a way forward and that does mean you're relaxing, as much as you can," he said.
"Running the economy hot you could say, in a way that you are trying to take into account, not just the sort of necessity to control the virus, but also the wider impact on society - those job losses, those opportunities foregone, particularly for younger people.
"The rise of domestic violence, child abuse, of mental health cases. All of that needs to be taken into account."
He is publicly making the argument that the current chancellor and Michael Gove, the Cabinet Office minister, have reportedly been making privately in recent weeks - echoing the concerns of Conservative MPs and donors.
Mr Javid is of the view that the government should begin lifting restrictions if the R number is below 1 - the rate where new infections are no longer rising - rather than waiting until the virus has been completely suppressed.
"As well as listening to the scientists we also need to think carefully about the impact on the rest of society and the economy and jobs and wider social impacts and that does mean, I think, that when it comes to opening up you want to go as far and as quick as you can," the former chancellor said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:53 30 April: Government video explains COVID-19 'rate of infection'
But Mr Javid also knows that reigniting the economy risks reigniting the spread of the disease.
One option might be to have different rules for different age groups in order to both try to protect the elderly and those more vulnerable to COVID-19 while also getting the economy, and the younger workforce moving once more.
"We shouldn't rule out an option that focuses on protecting the most vulnerable but gives more freedom to others," he added.
"We know now that the mortality rate of younger people, say under the age of 45, is a lot lower than others. And it might be the case that in the future we can find a way that we focus our protection on those that are most vulnerable."
In the longer term, Mr Javid, an instinctive Thatcherite, wants Britain to find a way to return to fiscal rules and live within its means.
The Institute of Fiscal Studies (IFS) has estimated the UK could be sitting on a debt pile of £250bn at the end of the year - five times the amount predicted before the coronavirus crisis hit.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The prime minister has made it clear he is opposed to any more austerity to balance the books.
His former chancellor is clear he is opposed - and in this he speaks for many Conservative MPs - to tax rises which he warns will be "self-defeating" and "strangle any economic recovery".
"Many things will change as a result of this crisis one thing that shouldn't change is our understanding of the economic model that leads to the highest growth rate possible which is still going to be a free-enterprise, low tax, competitive economy.
"This is the best way to make sure that we are earning enough as a country to pay for the public services we all rely on.
"It was true then, and it's true now. And that's going to be critical, that we stick with the economic model that we know works."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-08--No 'dramatic overnight change' planned for UK's lockdown, minister warns

There will not be any `` dramatic overnight change '' of the UK 's lockdown rules , a cabinet minister has warned .
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference , Environment Secretary George Eustice said the UK is `` not out of the woods '' and there are `` still major challenges '' during the coronavirus pandemic .
With the prime minister due to update the country on Sunday , Mr Eustice said ministers needed to be `` very very cautious as we loosen the restrictions we have '' .
He added : `` We will be living @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come and it 's therefore important to avoid that second peak that could overwhelm our NHS . ''
He said Boris Johnson would `` set out effectively a roadmap of how we can evolve the current restrictions '' .
Earlier , First Minister Mark Drakeford said Wales would remain in lockdown for another three weeks to avoid `` a return of the virus . ''
But restrictions will be eased slightly from Monday , with people being allowed to exercise outside more than once a day and garden centres reopening .
In Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only change being considered `` in the immediate term '' was about allowing longer than one hour of outdoor exercise a day .
Mr Eustice has also announced that charities will be given £16m to help provide food for those who are struggling because of COVID-19 .
At least 5,000 frontline groups in England will benefit , and it will cover rural areas as well as cities .
The environment secretary said that more than one million food parcels had been delivered to so far to the clinically vulnerable .
He said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition all of those in the shielded cohort have been added to a list giving them priority access to supermarket delivery slots .
`` So far around 400,000 people have been offered priority delivery slots by supermarkets and around one million orders have been placed . ''
Volunteers using the NHS Good Samaritan app had carried out 79,000 shopping runs , he added .
Mr Eustice said that permitting wider attendance at funerals is something the UK government is `` looking at closely '' , adding : `` We are very conscious that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` People want the opportunity to pay their last respects .
Obviously we have to be very conscious of large social gatherings , but it is something we are giving consideration to . ''
Asked about fast food outlets , the environment secretary said he thought it was `` quite possible for these venues to reopen and reopen safely - we never mandated that they should close '' .
He added that some of them could perhaps learn lessons from how supermarkets have been operating during the pandemic .

There will not be any "dramatic overnight change" of the UK's lockdown rules, a cabinet minister has warned.
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, Environment Secretary George Eustice said the UK is "not out of the woods" and there are "still major challenges" during the coronavirus pandemic.
With the prime minister due to update the country on Sunday, Mr Eustice said ministers needed to be "very very cautious as we loosen the restrictions we have".
Image: People on the beach in Brighton on Friday
He added: "We will be living with this virus for some time to come and it's therefore important to avoid that second peak that could overwhelm our NHS."
He said Boris Johnson would "set out effectively a roadmap of how we can evolve the current restrictions".
Earlier, First Minister Mark Drakeford said Wales would remain in lockdown for another three weeks to avoid "a return of the virus."
But restrictions will be eased slightly from Monday, with people being allowed to exercise outside more than once a day and garden centres reopening.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:08 Welsh govt makes three small tweaks to lockdown
In Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the only change being considered "in the immediate term" was about allowing longer than one hour of outdoor exercise a day.
Mr Eustice has also announced that charities will be given £16m to help provide food for those who are struggling because of COVID-19.
Advertisement
At least 5,000 frontline groups in England will benefit, and it will cover rural areas as well as cities.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 'UK nations may well move at different speeds'
The environment secretary said that more than one million food parcels had been delivered to so far to the clinically vulnerable.
He said in the Downing Street briefing: "In addition all of those in the shielded cohort have been added to a list giving them priority access to supermarket delivery slots.
"So far around 400,000 people have been offered priority delivery slots by supermarkets and around one million orders have been placed."
Volunteers using the NHS Good Samaritan app had carried out 79,000 shopping runs, he added.
Mr Eustice said that permitting wider attendance at funerals is something the UK government is "looking at closely", adding: "We are very conscious that this is an incredibly sensitive matter.
"People want the opportunity to pay their last respects. Obviously we have to be very conscious of large social gatherings, but it is something we are giving consideration to."
Asked about fast food outlets, the environment secretary said he thought it was "quite possible for these venues to reopen and reopen safely - we never mandated that they should close".
He added that some of them could perhaps learn lessons from how supermarkets have been operating during the pandemic.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-09--Coronavirus: PM seeks to convince bosses over lockdown easing

Boris Johnson will seek to persuade Britain 's top bosses on Sunday that his strategy for easing the coronavirus lockdown will pave the way for a swift economic fightback .
Sky News understands that executives have been invited to attend a conference call with the prime minister , following a statement in which he is expected to outline a `` road map '' for removing the restrictions which have brought the economy to a near-standstill .
His discussions with the leaders of some of the UK 's biggest companies will come amid signs of growing unrest in the private sector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy .
Some executives say they have not been given enough information by the government about the resumption of public transport services and the reopening of schools to begin proper planning for their employees to return to work .
They are also complaining that there is too little detail about whether workers will be required to use personal protective equipment such as face masks .
Since the government circulated draft proposals last weekend for the reopening of different types of working environment , employers have sought clarity about their legal exposure if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companies have followed the new guidance .
There is also disquiet that the Treasury 's plans to curtail the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be inadequate to protect some industries which have seen revenues collapse in the wake of the outbreak .
Executives from across the economy are understood to have been invited to Sunday 's call with Mr Johnson , which is understood to be the first he will have held since the furloughing programme was unveiled in March .
Some are understood to be keen for the PM to commit to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the government to set out an accelerated economic stimulus programme .

Boris Johnson will seek to persuade Britain's top bosses on Sunday that his strategy for easing the coronavirus lockdown will pave the way for a swift economic fightback.
Sky News understands that executives have been invited to attend a conference call with the prime minister, following a statement in which he is expected to outline a "road map" for removing the restrictions which have brought the economy to a near-standstill.
His discussions with the leaders of some of the UK's biggest companies will come amid signs of growing unrest in the private sector over the government's plans to kickstart the economy.
Some executives say they have not been given enough information by the government about the resumption of public transport services and the reopening of schools to begin proper planning for their employees to return to work.
They are also complaining that there is too little detail about whether workers will be required to use personal protective equipment such as face masks.
Since the government circulated draft proposals last weekend for the reopening of different types of working environment, employers have sought clarity about their legal exposure if staff fall seriously ill, even if companies have followed the new guidance.
There is also disquiet that the Treasury's plans to curtail the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be inadequate to protect some industries which have seen revenues collapse in the wake of the outbreak.
Executives from across the economy are understood to have been invited to Sunday's call with Mr Johnson, which is understood to be the first he will have held since the furloughing programme was unveiled in March.
Some are understood to be keen for the PM to commit to a major summer fiscal event in order for the government to set out an accelerated economic stimulus programme.
Advertisement
A Downing Street spokeswoman declined to comment.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-10--Localised lockdowns to target coronavirus hotpots as rules relaxed

Localised lockdowns could be used to tackle coronavirus hotspots as the government moves to restart the economy , a cabinet minister has told Sky News .
Speaking to Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday programme , Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said that as the COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed nationally , outbreaks in specific communities , towns and even schools could see `` particular measures '' imposed .
With the prime minister due to lay out a roadmap for easing the current lockdown , Mr Jenrick also said the government 's `` strong preference '' is that leaders of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach to the coronavirus .
However , splits have immediately opened up , with Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon insisting will continue to use the `` stay at home '' message to tackle the coronavirus crisis .
Boris Johnson is to ditch the phrase and instead tell people to `` stay alert , control the virus and save lives '' .
But Ms Sturgeon said the first she had heard of the `` the PM 's new slogan '' was in newspaper reports and that she would not be switching `` given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Wales ' First Minister Mark Drakeford also said the stay at home message had `` not gone away '' and told Ridge that it `` remains the best way you can protect yourself and others '' .
In his address to the nation , Mr Johnson will unveil a five-level coronavirus warning system when he outlines his plans to gradually relax restrictions and urge workers who can not do their jobs from home to begin resuming their roles , while observing social-distancing rules .
Mr Jenrick told Ridge : `` At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four on a scale of five with five being the most concerning and our aspiration is to bring that down as swiftly as we can to three .
`` And at each stage , at each of those milestones , we will be in a position to open up and restart more aspects of the economy and of our lives . ''
He added : `` The evidence behind it will also be able to inform what we do at a local level and if we see there are outbreaks in particular localities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then we may be able to take particular measures in those places as we build up a more sophisticated and longer-term response to controlling the virus . ''
Mr Jenrick also defended the change in slogan , telling Ridge there was a need to `` update and broaden '' the message to the public .
He said : `` We need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country . ''
He went on : `` We 're not going to take risks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are anxious about the future but we want now to have a message which encourages people to go to work .
`` Staying home will still be an important part of the message but you will be able to go to work and you will in time be able to do some other activities that you 're not able to do today . ''
Watch Sky News at 7pm tonight for the prime minister 's pre-recorded address to the nation over ending the lockdown .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker But shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth warned the government 's new `` stay alert '' slogan risks ambiguity .
He added : `` We need absolute clarity from Boris Johnson .
There 's no room for nuance in this .
`` This virus exploits ambivalence , it thrives on ambiguity and I think the problem with the slogan that has been briefed to the newspapers is people will be looking slightly puzzled , questioning 'what does it mean to stay alert ?
What are the government saying with that ? '
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will offer us that crystal-clear clarity tonight that is desperately needed . ''
Meanwhile , Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster has said any changes made to the region 's lockdown measures following Mr Johnson 's announcement will be `` nuanced '' .
She pointed out Northern Ireland 's transmission rate remained higher than other parts of the UK , which had led to the lockdown rules being extended for a further three weeks .
Speaking to Ridge , Mrs Foster said : `` There are differences across the United Kingdom , regional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognises those regional differences and as a result , we may see slight differences across the United Kingdom .
`` Of course , we have benefited greatly from being part of the United Kingdom… but it is important that we do what is right in our region of the United Kingdom moving forward and that 's why we 're coming with our road plan early next week . ''

Localised lockdowns could be used to tackle coronavirus hotspots as the government moves to restart the economy, a cabinet minister has told Sky News.
Speaking to Sky News' Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said that as the COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed nationally, outbreaks in specific communities, towns and even schools could see "particular measures" imposed.
With the prime minister due to lay out a roadmap for easing the current lockdown, Mr Jenrick also said the government's "strong preference" is that leaders of the devolved nations agreed to maintain a UK-wide approach to the coronavirus.
Image: Mr Jenrick defended the change in slogan arguing the need to 'update and broaden' the message
However, splits have immediately opened up, with Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon insisting will continue to use the "stay at home" message to tackle the coronavirus crisis.
Boris Johnson is to ditch the phrase and instead tell people to "stay alert, control the virus and save lives".
But Ms Sturgeon said the first she had heard of the "the PM's new slogan" was in newspaper reports and that she would not be switching "given the critical point we are at".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:51 Arlene Foster: We need to prevent a second spike in NI
Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford also said the stay at home message had "not gone away" - telling Ridge that it "remains the best way you can protect yourself and others".
In his address to the nation, Mr Johnson will unveil a five-level coronavirus warning system when he outlines his plans to gradually relax restrictions and urge workers who cannot do their jobs from home to begin resuming their roles, while observing social-distancing rules.
Mr Jenrick told Ridge: "At the moment we believe the country is at four on a scale of five - with five being the most concerning - and our aspiration is to bring that down as swiftly as we can to three.
Advertisement
"And at each stage, at each of those milestones, we will be in a position to open up and restart more aspects of the economy and of our lives."
He added: "The evidence behind it will also be able to inform what we do at a local level and if we see there are outbreaks in particular localities, neighbourhoods, schools, towns, then we may be able to take particular measures in those places as we build up a more sophisticated and longer-term response to controlling the virus."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 No dramatic lockdown changes, warns govt
Mr Jenrick also defended the change in slogan, telling Ridge there was a need to "update and broaden" the message to the public.
He said: "We need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country.
"We're not going to take risks with the public. I understand people are anxious about the future but we want now to have a message which encourages people to go to work.
"Staying home will still be an important part of the message but you will be able to go to work and you will in time be able to do some other activities that you're not able to do today."
Watch Sky News at 7pm tonight for the prime minister's pre-recorded address to the nation over ending the lockdown.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth warned the government's new "stay alert" slogan risks ambiguity.
He added: "We need absolute clarity from Boris Johnson. There's no room for nuance in this.
"This virus exploits ambivalence, it thrives on ambiguity and I think the problem with the slogan that has been briefed to the newspapers is people will be looking slightly puzzled, questioning 'what does it mean to stay alert? What are the government saying with that?'
"So I hope that Boris Johnson will offer us that crystal-clear clarity tonight that is desperately needed."
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster has said any changes made to the region's lockdown measures following Mr Johnson's announcement will be "nuanced".
She pointed out Northern Ireland's transmission rate remained higher than other parts of the UK, which had led to the lockdown rules being extended for a further three weeks.
Speaking to Ridge, Ms Foster said: "There are differences across the United Kingdom, regional differences. I think the prime minister recognises those regional differences and as a result, we may see slight differences across the United Kingdom.
"Of course, we have benefited greatly from being part of the United Kingdom... but it is important that we do what is right in our region of the United Kingdom moving forward and that's why we're coming with our road plan early next week."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-07--Five-stage coronavirus warning system for easing lockdown set to be unveiled

The prime minister will unveil a five-stage coronavirus warning system as part of a gradual easing of the lockdown .
Boris Johnson will also leave behind the old `` stay at home '' slogan and instead tell people to `` stay alert , control the virus and save lives '' .
A five-stage system administered by a new `` joint biosecurity centre '' will detect increases in COVID-19 infection rates and judge how strict lockdown measures and social distancing rules should be locally in England .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ranging from green ( level one ) to red ( level five ) , Mr Johnson is expected to say the nation is close to moving down from level four to three .
The UK 's lockdown was introduced on 23 March to try to contain the spread of COVID-19 and , by law , it must be reviewed every three weeks .
It was last reviewed on Thursday last week when Downing Street said that no changes have been made .
Watch Sky News at 7pm tonight for the prime minister 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lockdown .
Mr Johnson will chair a meeting of the emergency Cobra committee today before his pre-recorded address airs at 7pm , with some changes potentially taking effect as early as Monday .
He is expected to tell people who can not work from home that they can return to their workplaces while following social distancing rules .
Garden centres will be allowed to reopen and the limit of one type of exercise a day is expected be relaxed , while there will likely be tougher fines for those who break the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers are planning a 14-day compulsory self-isolation period for people arriving at UK airports from any country apart from the Republic of Ireland .
A larger 50-page document is to be revealed on Monday which will outline how the UK economy will be revived after the virus outbreak forced widespread business closures .
But there is concern that many workers might not be willing to return to work yet , with the latest figures showing more than 31,000 people have died in the UK with coronavirus .
A scientific adviser to the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could still suffer more than 100,000 deaths by the end of the year if the lockdown is relaxed too quickly .
Union leaders have said they will not recommend their members return to work until their safety can be assured .
In The Observer , Unison , Unite , the GMB , Usdaw and the Trades Union Congress wrote that workers needed to know that `` ministers have listened and that we stay safe and save lives at work too '' .
Mr Johnson told the Sun On Sunday : `` You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - but it 's on the descent you have to make sure you do n't run too fast , lose control and stumble . ''
Meanwhile , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced a £250m package to boost cycling and walking , warning that some forms of public transport will only be able to run at 10 % capacity under social distancing rules .

The prime minister will unveil a five-stage coronavirus warning system as part of a gradual easing of the lockdown.
Boris Johnson will also leave behind the old "stay at home" slogan and instead tell people to "stay alert, control the virus and save lives".
A five-stage system administered by a new "joint biosecurity centre" will detect increases in COVID-19 infection rates and judge how strict lockdown measures and social distancing rules should be locally in England.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
With the alert levels ranging from green (level one) to red (level five), Mr Johnson is expected to say the nation is close to moving down from level four to three.
The UK's lockdown was introduced on 23 March to try to contain the spread of COVID-19 and, by law, it must be reviewed every three weeks. It was last reviewed on Thursday, when Downing Street said that no changes have been made.
Watch Sky News at 7pm tonight for the prime minister's pre-recorded address to the nation over ending the lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:03 UK COVID-19 deaths rise by 346
Mr Johnson will chair a meeting of the emergency COBRA committee today before his pre-recorded address airs at 7pm, with some changes potentially taking effect as early as Monday.
He is expected to tell people who cannot work from home that they can return to their workplaces while following social distancing rules.
Advertisement
Garden centres will be allowed to reopen and the limit of one type of exercise a day is expected be relaxed, while there will likely be tougher fines for those who break the rules.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:07 Travellers to UK expected to face quarantine
There are also reports that ministers are planning a 14-day compulsory self-isolation period for people arriving at UK airports from any country apart from the Republic of Ireland.
A larger 50-page document is to be revealed on Monday which will outline how the UK economy will be revived after the virus outbreak forced widespread business closures.
But there is concern that many workers might not be willing to return to work yet, with the latest figures showing more than 31,000 people have died in the UK with coronavirus.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:37 Scotland lockdown 'must be extended'
A scientific adviser to the government told The Sunday Times that the UK could still suffer more than 100,000 deaths by the end of the year if the lockdown is relaxed too quickly.
Union leaders have said they will not recommend their members return to work until their safety can be assured.
In The Observer, Unison, Unite, the GMB, Usdaw and the Trades Union Congress wrote that workers needed to know that "ministers have listened and that we stay safe and save lives at work too".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:31 How transport will change after lockdown
Mr Johnson told The Sun On Sunday: "You have very few options on the climb up - but it's on the descent you have to make sure you don't run too fast, lose control and stumble."
Meanwhile, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced a £250m package to boost cycling and walking, warning that some forms of public transport will only be able to run at 10% capacity under social distancing rules.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-10--Some restrictions lifted, but rule-breakers could now face bigger fines

Boris Johnson says he is taking `` the first careful steps '' in easing the coronavirus lockdown - with people in England allowed to spend more leisure time outside from Wednesday .
In a pre-recorded address to the nation , the prime minister said the government wants to `` encourage people to take more and even unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise '' - provided they stick to social distancing guidelines and stay two metres apart .
And in a bid to kickstart the economy , Mr Johnson said anyone who can not work from home - such as those in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actively encouraged '' to go to work from tomorrow .
The PM stressed that now `` is not the time '' to end the lockdown altogether - and said the government is simply taking `` the first careful steps '' to ease certain measures .
Explaining how things will change from Wednesday , he added : `` You can sit in the sun in your local park , you can drive to other destinations , you can even play sports but only with members of your own household . ''
However , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be increased for the `` small minority '' who fail to obey social distancing rules .
And he said that the impact of all of these changes is going to be `` closely monitored '' at a local , regional and national level , adding : `` If there are outbreaks , if there are problems , we will not hesitate to put on the brakes . ''
During the address to the nation , Mr Johnson also said : • He believes children could gradually return to primary school from 1 June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Year 1 and Year 6 • At least some of the hospitality industry and other public places could begin to reopen in July at the earliest `` if and only if the numbers support it '' • `` It will soon be the time '' to impose quarantine on people coming into the UK by air • The UK 's COVID-19 reproduction rate , also known as R , is between 0.5 and 0.9 , `` but potentially only just below one '' • The lockdown measures `` prevented this country from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a catastrophe in which the reasonable worst-case scenario was half a million fatalities '' • On a new five-stage COVID Alert Level , where one means the disease is no longer present and five is the most critical , the UK is currently at level four and `` in a position to begin to move in steps to level three '' The PM stressed that any further relaxation of the lockdown measures `` is conditional - it all depends on a series of big ifs '' .
He said : `` Throughout this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be driven not by mere hope or economic necessity .
`` We are going to be driven by the science , the data and public health . ''
Although Britons can return to their workplaces from tomorrow if necessary , the prime minister stressed that safety should be a priority when they are commuting .
`` You should avoid public transport if at all possible , because we must and will maintain social distancing , and capacity will therefore be limited , '' he added .
`` So work from home if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work if you ca n't work from home . ''
New guidance is also being offered to employers so workplaces can become `` COVID secure '' .
Mr Johnson also thanked the public `` for the effort and personal sacrifice they have made to reduce the spread of coronavirus and protect the NHS '' - but warned `` it would be madness to throw away that achievement by allowing a second spike '' .
In a nod to his new slogan , he added : `` We must stay alert .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ save lives . ''
The PM reiterated that keeping the infection rate down and beginning a return to a semblance of normality depended on a unified effort .
`` It depends on all of us - the entire country - to follow the advice , to observe the social distancing and to keep that R down , '' Mr Johnson said .
He also unveiled a five-stage coronavirus warning system which will help guide the government 's response as it begins easing the lockdown .
It will detect increases in COVID-19 infection rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing rules should be locally .
People are now being told to `` stay alert , control the virus , save lives '' - staying home as much as possible , continuing to keep two metres apart when outside , and limiting contact with other people .
But the government 's new slogan - a change from the previous mantra of `` stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives '' - has been criticised by some for being unclear and confusing .
The leaders of the devolved administrations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already said they will not use this updated message - telling their citizens to simply `` stay at home '' instead .
Meanwhile , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` This statement raises more questions than it answers , and we see the prospect of England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland pulling in different directions .
`` The prime minister appears to be effectively telling millions of people to go back to work without a clear plan for safety or clear guidance as to how to get there without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country wanted tonight was clarity and consensus , but we have n't got either of those . ''
The lockdown was introduced on 23 March to slow the spread of the coronavirus , which has so far killed at least 31,855 people across the UK .
Mr Johnson 's speech comes after ministers were accused of sending `` mixed messages '' and creating false hope that a significant easing of the restrictions was on the cards .
In recent days , some newspaper front pages have declared that `` lockdown freedom beckons '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steps to freedom '' will begin .

Boris Johnson says he is taking "the first careful steps" in easing the coronavirus lockdown - with people in England allowed to spend more leisure time outside from Wednesday.
In a pre-recorded address to the nation, the prime minister said the government wants to "encourage people to take more and even unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise" - provided they stick to social distancing guidelines and stay two metres apart.
And in a bid to kickstart the economy, Mr Johnson said anyone who cannot work from home - such as those in construction and manufacturing - should be "actively encouraged" to go to work from tomorrow.
Image: Boris Johnson says people in England will now be allowed to 'sit in the sun in their local park'
The PM stressed that now "is not the time" to end the lockdown altogether - and said the government is simply taking "the first careful steps" to ease certain measures.
Explaining how things will change from Wednesday, he added: "You can sit in the sun in your local park, you can drive to other destinations, you can even play sports but only with members of your own household."
However, Mr Johnson warned that fines are going to be increased for the "small minority" who fail to obey social distancing rules.
And he said that the impact of all of these changes is going to be "closely monitored" at a local, regional and national level, adding: "If there are outbreaks, if there are problems, we will not hesitate to put on the brakes."
During the address to the nation, Mr Johnson also said:
He believes children could gradually return to primary school from 1 June at the earliest - beginning with reception, Year 1 and Year 6
At least some of the hospitality industry and other public places could begin to reopen in July at the earliest "if and only if the numbers support it"
"It will soon be the time" to impose quarantine on people coming into the UK by air
The UK's COVID-19 reproduction rate, also known as R, is between 0.5 and 0.9, "but potentially only just below one"
The lockdown measures "prevented this country from being engulfed by what could have been a catastrophe in which the reasonable worst-case scenario was half a million fatalities"
On a new five-stage COVID Alert Level, where one means the disease is no longer present and five is the most critical, the UK is currently at level four and "in a position to begin to move in steps to level three"
The PM stressed that any further relaxation of the lockdown measures "is conditional - it all depends on a series of big ifs".
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:50 'We must continue to control the virus'
He said: "Throughout this period of the next two months we will be driven not by mere hope or economic necessity.
"We are going to be driven by the science, the data and public health."
Although Britons can return to their workplaces from tomorrow if necessary, the prime minister stressed that safety should be a priority when they are commuting.
"You should avoid public transport if at all possible, because we must and will maintain social distancing, and capacity will therefore be limited," he added.
"So work from home if you can, but you should go to work if you can't work from home."
Image: The new coronavirus slogans unveiled by Boris Johnson
New guidance is also being offered to employers so workplaces can become "COVID secure".
Mr Johnson also thanked the public "for the effort and personal sacrifice they have made to reduce the spread of coronavirus and protect the NHS" - but warned "it would be madness to throw away that achievement by allowing a second spike".
In a nod to his new slogan, he added: "We must stay alert. We must continue to control the virus and save lives."
The PM reiterated that keeping the infection rate down and beginning a return to a semblance of normality depended on a unified effort.
"It depends on all of us - the entire country - to follow the advice, to observe the social distancing and to keep that R down," Mr Johnson said.
He also unveiled a five-stage coronavirus warning system which will help guide the government's response as it begins easing the lockdown.
It will detect increases in COVID-19 infection rates and judge how strict lockdown measures and social distancing rules should be locally.
People are now being told to "stay alert, control the virus, save lives" - staying home as much as possible, continuing to keep two metres apart when outside, and limiting contact with other people.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:39 Sir Keir Starmer says Boris Johnson's address on easing coronavirus lockdown rules
But the government's new slogan - a change from the previous mantra of "stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives" - has been criticised by some for being unclear and confusing.
The leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have already said they will not use this updated message - telling their citizens to simply "stay at home" instead.
Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "This statement raises more questions than it answers, and we see the prospect of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland pulling in different directions.
"The prime minister appears to be effectively telling millions of people to go back to work without a clear plan for safety or clear guidance as to how to get there without using public transport.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 Nicola Sturgeon: 'Please stay at home'
"What the country wanted tonight was clarity and consensus, but we haven't got either of those."
The lockdown was introduced on 23 March to slow the spread of the coronavirus, which has so far killed at least 31,855 people across the UK.
Mr Johnson's speech comes after ministers were accused of sending "mixed messages" and creating false hope that a significant easing of the restrictions was on the cards.
In recent days, some newspaper front pages have declared that "lockdown freedom beckons", while others said the "first steps to freedom" will begin.