UK imposes stricter rules to curb surge in infections

LONDON: The government here yesterday tightened restrictions to stem rising coronavirus cases, ordering pubs in England to shut early, and abandoned calls for people to return to the workplace to help kickstart the battered economy.

Britain is following Europe in facing a second wave of infections and Prime Minister Boris Johnson said measures were needed to prevent further and more costly action later.

"This is the moment we must act," he told parliament. "We're acting on the principle that a stitch in time, saves nine."

Johnson said the measures, which could be in place for up to six months, would be bolstered by greater penalties for infringements, a boosted police presence and military back-up.

"If all our actions fail to bring the (reproduction rate) below one, then we reserve the right to deploy greater firepower with significantly greater restrictions."

"Your harmless cough can be someone else's death knell," he warned.

Government scientists have painted a grim picture of up to 50,000 coronavirus cases a day by mid-October and more than 200 deaths a day a month later if no action is taken.

Johnson, battling sustained criticism for his handling of the outbreak, brushed aside renewed anger from the hospitality sector, which is still trying to get back on its feet.

The chief executive of trade body UK Hospitality, Kate Nicholls, said the restrictions were "another crushing blow" for the beleaguered industry.

Pubs, bars and restaurants will have to close early at 10:00pm from tomorrow, while face coverings will be made compulsory for staff in retail, as well as in taxis. From Monday, weddings and receptions will only be allowed a maximum of 15 people, although funerals can still have up to 30 in attendance. AFP