British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday ordered the reopening of the economy in England to resume as data showed a recent rise in coronavirus infections had now levelled off.
NEW REGULATIONS WERE ANNOUNCED
The move highlights the government’s delicate balance between protecting the economy and preventing the virus’s spread, coming at the same time as the announcement of quarantine on arrivals from France and tougher penalties for those refusing to wear masks.
On Friday, he said that 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.
Johnson also announced increased fines of up to 3,200 pounds ($4,175) for those who repeatedly refuse to wear a face mask where they are required to do so, and 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.