Boris slammed for unclear stance on lockdown in UK

LONDON: The British government on Monday came under fire from the opposition Labour Party, leaders of Scotland, Wales and members of the public for allegedly confusing messages on easing lockdown curbs, as the death toll in the UK reached 32,065.

Johnson dropped the core message to “stay home” in a widely watched televised address on Sunday evening, but Scotland first minister Nicola Sturgeon pointed out that his announcement applied only to England and that Scotland would retain the “stay home” advice.

Wales first minister Mark Drakeford said, “There are some differences in the messaging between England and Wales which I am concerned may cause confusion.”

The number of cases in the UK rose to 223,060, the department of health and social care said.

A 60-page document setting out details of the new official advice was published on Monday afternoon, which included covering the face in public places. A five-stage alert system was also announced.