You must stay at home

PM announces lockdown and says police will be given the powers to enforce rules

- TORCUIL CRICHTON

SCOTS were placed in a three-week lockdown last night – and warned they face fines for being out of the house without a good reason.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered the stark message as the UK continued to step up its war against coronavirus.

And it was backed up by an emotional statement from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who pleaded with the country to follow the new “set of rules”.

The measures were set out by Johnson in an 8.30pm televised address from No10 Downing Street.

He told the nation: “From this evening, I must give the British people a very simple instruction – you must stay at home. Because the critical thing we must do is stop the disease spreading between households.”

The Government ordered that, with immediate effect, people will only be allowed to leave their home for very limited purposes:

Shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible.

One form of exercise a day – for example a run, walk or cycle alone or with members of your household.

Any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person.

Travelling to and from work – but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.

Johnson said: “These are the only reasons you should leave your home.

“You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home.