U.K. imposes strict coronavirus lockdown measures for next 3 weeks

The United Kingdom faced some criticism for what many considered a delayed response to the coronavirus pandemic, but Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday announced a series of strict measures for the country, which is joining many of its ex-European Union counterparts in lockdown for at least the next three weeks.

The new measures mean every non-essential shop is shut down, public gatherings are effectively banned, and funerals will be the only social events allowed. Police will have the authority in the form of issuing fines and dispersing gatherings to make sure people comply.

Johnson said the rules will be under constant review and, if evidence suggests it's reasonable, the restrictions could be eased after a three week period. But for now, the prime minister believes only a "huge national effort" can slow the virus and ensure the U.K.'s health care system is able to cope. Read more at Politico.

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