Foreign
BRITISH Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ordered the reopening of the economy in England as data showed a recent rise in COVID-19 infections had now leveled off.
The move highlights the government’s delicate balance between protecting the economy and preventing the virus’s spread.
The move is coming at the same time as the announcement of quarantine on arrivals from France and tougher penalties for those refusing to wear masks.
Amid rising case of numbers in July, Johnson said there was “warning light on the dashboard” and paused the reopening of casinos, bowling alleys, and skating rinks.
Jonson said on Friday that the phase of his reopening plan could now go ahead.
“Today, we are able to announce some further changes which will allow more people to return to work and the public to get back to more of the things they have missed,” he said.
Most businesses are now allowed to operate, albeit within strict guidelines.
Friday’s announcement means trials of crowds at sporting events can also go ahead and indoor theatre, music, and performances can resume with socially distanced audiences.
The Office for National Statistics said a small increase in the percentage of people testing positive for COVID-19 in July had now leveled off, although some said this was not the primary driver for the lockdown easing.
“I don’t think it’s really been taken on epidemiological grounds; I think it’s really been taken primarily for economic reasons,” John Edmunds, one of the scientists advising the government on its pandemic response said.
Johnson also announced increased fines of up to 3,200 pounds (4,175 dollars) for those who repeatedly refuse to wear face masks where they are required to do so.
The prime minister cautioned that he would halt the lockdown easing again if required.
“Most people in this country are following the rules and doing their bit to control the virus, but we must remain focused and we cannot be complacent,” he said. (Reuters/NAN)
– Aug. 14, 2020 @ 14.45 GMT |
Tags: England resumes lockdown easing stiffens punishment for rule breaches
