Acting responsibly

Caution needed over freedoms

THE FURTHER easing of lockdown restrictions will be a true test of the nation’s moral compass. From today, friends and family can meet in parks and gardens in socially distanced groups of up to six and more than two million vulnerable individuals who have been shielding since March are finally allowed to spend time with outdoors. For most, these new freedoms will be gratefully received.

Yet, just as there are concerns about many schools beginning to admit more pupils from today - some authorities, headteachers and unions claim they are unconvinced about the safety of staff and students and some educational establishments are being advised to delay wider re-opening as a result - there are questions over whether these new freedoms are being given too soon.

It’s clearly a pivotal moment; last Thursday, the Prime Minister stressed that to control the virus, people must continue to act responsibly and strictly observe social distancing rules. England’s deputy chief medical officer has also urged caution, describing it as a “very dangerous” time, and yesterday Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab acknowledged it was a “sensitive moment” but said the country has to transition.

It is vital then, that the Government ensures guidance around this easing and others in weeks to come is clearly communicated and in the best interests of this country’s recovery and of its citizens .

Therefore it is incumbent on individuals to adhere to the official advice. Without both of these, a resurgence of the virus, putting more lives on the line, is undoubtedly a greater risk.