UK Bans Public Gatherings, UK on Lockdown

On Monday evening UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the UK will be banning gatherings of more than two people in public, with police empowered to enforce the bans. These restrictions are the latest in the government’s efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus, after crowds of people were seen visiting public parks and gathering over the weekend.

As a part of the new regulations, gatherings of over two people in public are banned. In addition, people are now only allowed to leave their homes for a limited number of reasons. Shopping for basic necessities like food and medication, seeking medical treatment, travelling to and from work if absolutely critical, and for one form of exercise per day.

The ban of gatherings of two or more does not apply to those who live in the same household, meaning families can still travel together but groups of 2 or more people who do not live together are now banned. People are urged to stay home and only leave their homes if absolutely necessary. Only shops selling essential goods will remain open, and all other public gathering places will be closed.

These measures are harsher than any taken in Britain in decades, and will be reviewed in three weeks based on the situation at the time. Johnson urged people to stay home in order to protect the NHS which is preparing to treat incoming patients over the next few weeks.