All over the world, we are seeing the devastating impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Without a huge national effort to halt the growth of this virus, there will come a moment when no health service in the world could possibly cope.
It is vital that we slow the spread of this disease so that we reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment at any one time.
That way, we can protect the NHS and save more lives.
While huge numbers of people have been staying home, the time has now come for us all to do more. It is critical that we stop the disease spreading between households.
That’s why you will only be allowed to leave your home for the following reasons:
- Shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible
- One form of exercise a day – alone or with members of your household
- Any medical need, to provide care, or to help a vulnerable person
- Travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home
These are the only reasons you should leave your home.
I know the damage that this disruption is doing and will do to your life, and to businesses and to jobs. But I also know that the people of this country will rise to the challenge and we will come through this stronger than ever.
We will beat the coronavirus and we will beat it together. Stay at home and save lives.
Thank you,
Boris Johnson
Prime Minister