Coronavirus: Stay at home or risk a fine

People have been told to stay at home or risk a fine under strict new measures introduced to slow the spread of Covid-19.

In an address to the country, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said people can only leave their homes under the following conditions:

• Shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible
• One form of exercise a day – for example a run, walk, or cycle – alone or with members of your household;
• Any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and
• Travelling to and from work, but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.

The new measures come into force this evening.

Shops selling non-essential items have been told to close and public gatherings of more than two people who do not live together will be banned.

Police, Mr Johnson said, will have the powers to enforce these rules, through dispersal powers and fines.

Speaking shortly after Mr Johnson, Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford said the new measures are to save lives.

He said: “We have to introduce more, even tighter measures.

“From now on, all high street shops will be closed, except those selling food, pharmacies, banks and post offices.

“Local NHS services, including your GP, will continue to be open.

“All social events, including weddings, baptisms and other ceremonies, as well as gatherings of more than two people in public should not take place. Funerals will continue to be held but only with close family present.”

Welsh Government closes campsites caravan parks

Latest figures released today reveal that 418 cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in Wales with 16 deaths.

Caravan parks, campsites, tourist hotspots and popular beauty spots have also closed to visitors from today.

Local authorities are enforcing the closure of pubs throughout Wales following reports some are flouting the shutdown introduced on Saturday. Licensed premises, which continue to trade will risk losing their licence.

Speaking earlier today, the First Minister said: “Wales is a beautiful country and attracts millions of visitors every year – but now is not the time for unnecessary journeys.

“We want people to come to Wales when the threat of coronavirus has passed.”