Advertisement

Coronavirus: The four reasons you are allowed to leave your home

“The time has now come for us all to do more,” Boris Johnson told the nation in a televised address on Monday night.

As coronavirus continues to take hold of the UK, the prime minister announced the government’s most draconian measures yet as it desperately tries to slow the spread of the virus.

The “instruction” was clear, Johnson said.

“You. Must. Stay. At. Home.”

Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice

Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world

Fact-checker: The number of COVID-19 cases in your local area

Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu

People will now only be allowed to leave their home for the following reasons...

1. Shopping

For basic necessities only, such as food and medicine.

This should only be done as “infrequently as possible”, the PM said.

All shops selling non-essential goods, such as clothing or electrical stores, must close indefinitely.

LONDON, ENGLAND, - MARCH 23: Shoppers queue outside a Sainsbury's supermarket ahead of opening on March 23, 2020 in London, England. Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has spread to at least 182 countries, claiming over 10,000 lives and infecting hundreds of thousands more. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)
Shoppers outside a Sainsbury's supermarket in London. (Getty Images)

2. One form of exercise a day

This can include a run, walk or cycle.

People can have company while doing this – but only if they are part of the same household.

Parks will remain open for exercise purposes.

3. Any medical need

Including to provide care or help vulnerable people.

4. Travelling to and from work

“But only when this is absolutely necessary,” Johnson said, “and cannot be done from home”.

In this screen grab taken from video, Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson addresses the nation from 10 Downing Street, in London, Monday March 23, 2020. Johnson has ordered the closure of most retail stores and banned gatherings for three in a stepped-up response to slow the new coronavirus. The measures Johnson announced in an address to the nation on Monday night a mark a departure from the British government's until-now more relaxed approach to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. (PA via AP)
Boris Johnson addresses the nation on Monday. (PA via AP)

Anything else?

No. “That’s all,” the PM instructed. “These are the only reasons you should leave your home.”

This means people can’t meet friends and family outside their household.

All social events – including weddings, baptisms, other ceremonies and gatherings of more than two people – are also off the table.

Johnson also warned police now have the power to issue fines and disperse gatherings “if you don’t follow the rules”.

The measures were announced after the UK death toll jumped by 54 to 335.