What the next phase of fight means for you

BORIS Johnson has said there will be no immediate end to the lockdown. But what is in his plan for the next phase of the coronavirus fight and how might it affect people’s lives?

Firstly, does his plan apply to the whole of the UK?

No. Devolved governments in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have power to make their own decisions on a number of matters, including health, and some have already done so.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said yesterday the cap on daily exercise has been scrapped, but she warned that is not an excuse to meet up in groups at parks or beaches, to sunbathe or have picnics and barbecues.

Northern Ireland’s roadmap, which is expected to only have “nuanced” changes, will be announced this week.

Can I sunbathe?

Yes. People will be allowed to sit in the sun in their local parks, but you must only do so with members of your own household and remain socially distanced from others.

Can I drive elsewhere to enjoy the outdoors?

Yes, you can drive to other destinations but only with members of your own household.

When I’m outdoors can I play sports?

Yes, but again this must be limited to doing so only with members of your own household.

What if I don’t obey the social distancing rules?

You could be fined, and the financial penalties will be increased in order to enforce the social distancing rules.

Can I return to work?

You should continue to work from home if you can, but if that’s not possible you should go to work.

Anyone who can’t work from home, like those in construction and manufacturing, “should be actively encouraged to go to work” from today, the PM said.

Mr Johnson will set out how workplaces can become “Covidsecure” by following new guidance for employers.