based on the latest updates the lockdown could stay for 2020
To avoid the second wave of infections and a second peak, the lockdown could last for 2020.
According to reports, although the last update extended the lockdown until May 7, these measures could stay for 2020 and could even be toughened in badly hit areas. Downing Street officials are reportedly referring to steps after May 7 as the “next phase” while barring any use of the word ‘exit’ from discussions. Restrictions are going to be lifted, but slowly, There is even the possibility for tightening restrictions in places where Covid-19 cases are still particularly high.
There is still potential for schools to re-open before the end of the academic year, but the earliest would be June 1. The nation’s workforce may be urged to remain home into the summer months to avoid crowding on public transport. The PM’s spokesman has emphasized, “the big concern is a second peak“. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said sports stadiums are unlikely to be re-opened for mass gatherings until the autumn at the earliest.
Mr. Dowden said Whitehall has expected from the beginning that the peak would last three months and the current situation is “consistent with that”. The UK’s virus strategy is now very similar to France with both having closely mirrored infection paths. French PM Édouard Philippe has said cafes and restaurants will stay shut for months while people are likely to be told to wear masks on public transport. Though he said supermarkets will re-open in May.
Former Chancellor Philip Hammond, meanwhile, has warned he expects the UK to see a ‘U-shaped’ economic slowdown. He has also urged Downing Street to clearly advise businesses on how to ease measures to enable the economy to bounce back. Briton has been numbed to the country’s economic consequences thanks to huge bailouts, but that they will demand the Government focuses on the ailing economy as the virus comes under control.