British Prime Minister addressed the nation to announce the strategy of easing coronavirus-induced lockdowns across the country. The country had recently crossed Italy’s death toll to become the second-most affected country after the United states.

As part of a transition from “Stay home” to “Stay alert”, the new measures are introduced to facilitate reopening places of social interaction as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to kill people, but has showed signs of slowing down in the country.

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During his address, the Prime Minister explained relaxations of lockdown rules, but only applying to England. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland had recently rejected&nbsp;his calls for easing the lockdown measures.

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If we as a nation begin to fulfil the conditions I have set out, then in the next few weeks and months we may be able to go further. 
 
We are driven by the science, the data and public health. 
 
It depends on all of us – the entire country – to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAlert</a> to keep the R down. <a href="https://t.co/KuiPs7mQL8">pic.twitter.com/KuiPs7mQL8</a>
— Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1259572987990343681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While asking people to work from home, he added that workers in industries&nbsp;like construction and manufacturing should be able to return to work starting Monday. At the same time, he asserted the need to avoid public transport.

Starting May 13, people in England will be able to visit parks, play sports, have access to sporting clubs and a lot more, but only if a two-metre distance is ensured between any two people.

Shops that do not necessarily sell essential products will be able to reopen starting June 1, the PM signalled. Schools may also start to reopen around the same time.

Moving on to July, he added that restaurants, cinemas, and places of worship may be able to reopen then.

The announcement was viewed as somewhat confusing.

For starters, the workers received only a 12-hour notice to start returning to work. This, many feared, could trigger chaos.

Twitter reacts

Twitterati were quick to take the government’s case on the lack of clarity in the measures.

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If you're heading <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackToWork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackToWork</a> following Boris Johnson's 'Advice' make sure you follow his example instead. If it's not safe for them, it isn't safe for you. <a href="https://t.co/WHmlIylIXS">pic.twitter.com/WHmlIylIXS</a>
— AntOnAnE (@AntOnAnEGaming) <a href="https://twitter.com/AntOnAnEGaming/status/1259751666053775360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Boris Johnson telling people to go back to work without using public transport <a href="https://t.co/2DnbwQUmcz">pic.twitter.com/2DnbwQUmcz</a>
— Abby Tomlinson (@twcuddleston) <a href="https://twitter.com/twcuddleston/status/1259754514690777089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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London roads &amp; Tubes this morning as workers return to work in England following that ‘speech’ by <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SocialDistancing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SocialDistancing</a> impossible☠️ 2nd wave of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> inevitable thanks to sheer incompetence of <a href="https://twitter.com/10DowningStreet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@10DowningStreet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/highestdeathrateinEurope?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#highestdeathrateinEurope</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thanksboris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#thanksboris</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://t.co/iDDxZ3FqHQ">pic.twitter.com/iDDxZ3FqHQ</a>
— Aamer Anwar🎗✊🏽 (@AamerAnwar) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamerAnwar/status/1259761294057619456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This is an ACTUAL slide from the Prime Minister's announcement. We are so screwed 🤦🏻‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAlert</a> <a href="https://t.co/jFaYicMC8u">pic.twitter.com/jFaYicMC8u</a>
— Peter Tennant (@PWGTennant) <a href="https://twitter.com/PWGTennant/status/1259622013007736834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One user made a comic strip to explain the situation.

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The inside story of THAT <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/borisjohnsonspeech?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#borisjohnsonspeech</a> ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayAlert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stayingalert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stayingalert</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorisHasFailed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorisHasFailed</a> <a href="https://t.co/8jEWCEFZrs">pic.twitter.com/8jEWCEFZrs</a>
— Richard Milne (@milneorchid) <a href="https://twitter.com/milneorchid/status/1259758485832716288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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'Clarity and consensus'

The three-step plan of the government envisages to slowly reopen places as the number of infections decline in the country.

Kier Starmer, the leader of the Labour party said that “the nation was looking for… clarity and consensus”.

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What the nation was looking for from the Prime Minister was clarity and consensus. 
 
We didn't get either. <a href="https://t.co/66xRdzNvp3">pic.twitter.com/66xRdzNvp3</a>
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1259567538062741513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“This statement raises more questions than it answers, and we see the prospect of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland pulling in different directions”, he further said.

“The prime minister appears to be effectively telling millions of people to go back to work without a clear plan for safety or clear guidance as to how to get there without using public transport”, he added.

British Prime Minister addressed the nation to announce the strategy of easing coronavirus-induced lockdowns across the country. The country had recently crossed Italy’s death toll to become the second-most affected country after the United states.

British Prime Minister addressed the nation to announce the strategy of easing coronavirus-induced lockdowns across the country. The country had recently crossed Italy’s death toll to become the second-most affected country after the United states. As part of a transition from “Stay home” to “Stay alert”, the new measures are introduced to facilitate reopening places of social interaction as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to kill people, but has showed signs of slowing down in the country. During his address, the Prime Minister explained relaxations of lockdown rules, but only applying to England. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland had recently rejected his calls for easing the lockdown measures. If we as a nation begin to fulfil the conditions I have set out, then in the next few weeks and months we may be able to go further. We are driven by the science, the data and public health. It depends on all of us – the entire country – to #StayAlert to keep the R down. pic.twitter.com/KuiPs7mQL8 — Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) May 10, 2020 × While asking people to work from home, he added that workers in industries like construction and manufacturing should be able to return to work starting Monday. At the same time, he asserted the need to avoid public transport. Starting May 13, people in England will be able to visit parks, play sports, have access to sporting clubs and a lot more, but only if a two-metre distance is ensured between any two people. Shops that do not necessarily sell essential products will be able to reopen starting June 1, the PM signalled. Schools may also start to reopen around the same time. Moving on to July, he added that restaurants, cinemas, and places of worship may be able to reopen then. The announcement was viewed as somewhat confusing. For starters, the workers received only a 12-hour notice to start returning to work. This, many feared, could trigger chaos. Twitter reacts Twitterati were quick to take the government’s case on the lack of clarity in the measures. If you're heading #BackToWork following Boris Johnson's 'Advice' make sure you follow his example instead. If it's not safe for them, it isn't safe for you. pic.twitter.com/WHmlIylIXS — AntOnAnE (@AntOnAnEGaming) May 11, 2020 × Boris Johnson telling people to go back to work without using public transport pic.twitter.com/2DnbwQUmcz — Abby Tomlinson (@twcuddleston) May 11, 2020 × London roads & Tubes this morning as workers return to work in England following that ‘speech’ by @BorisJohnson #SocialDistancing impossible☠️ 2nd wave of #COVID19 inevitable thanks to sheer incompetence of @10DowningStreet #highestdeathrateinEurope #thanksboris #StayHome pic.twitter.com/iDDxZ3FqHQ — Aamer Anwar🎗✊🏽 (@AamerAnwar) May 11, 2020 × This is an ACTUAL slide from the Prime Minister's announcement. We are so screwed 🤦🏻‍♂️#COVID19 #StayAlert pic.twitter.com/jFaYicMC8u — Peter Tennant (@PWGTennant) May 10, 2020 × One user made a comic strip to explain the situation. The inside story of THAT #borisjohnsonspeech ... #StayAlert #stayingalert #BorisHasFailed pic.twitter.com/8jEWCEFZrs — Richard Milne (@milneorchid) May 11, 2020 × 'Clarity and consensus' The three-step plan of the government envisages to slowly reopen places as the number of infections decline in the country. Kier Starmer, the leader of the Labour party said that “the nation was looking for… clarity and consensus”. What the nation was looking for from the Prime Minister was clarity and consensus. We didn't get either. pic.twitter.com/66xRdzNvp3 — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) May 10, 2020 × “This statement raises more questions than it answers, and we see the prospect of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland pulling in different directions”, he further said. “The prime minister appears to be effectively telling millions of people to go back to work without a clear plan for safety or clear guidance as to how to get there without using public transport”, he added.

Johnson's speech on measures for England to lift lockdown stirs 'confusion'; internet reacts

United Kingdom is ready to shift from 'stay home' to "stay alert". The social distancing message is being modified as the country is hoping to ease the lockdown restrictions.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be addressing the people on Sunday late evening. It is being expected that he will be announcing relaxations in the lockdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-wants-to-slowly-and-cautiously-ease-lockdown-to-restart-economy-minister-297752">Also read:&nbsp;UK wants to 'slowly and cautiously' ease lockdown to restart economy: Minister</a>

The UK enforced its "Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives"&nbsp;message as a slogan for the&nbsp;strict social distancing measures on March 23.

"Stay Alert will mean stay alert by staying home as much as possible, but stay alert when you do go out by maintaining social distancing, washing your hands, respecting others in the workplace and the other settings that you'll go to," said&nbsp;Britain Housing Minister Robert Jenrick.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-flight-from-doha-cancelled-five-pilots-test-positive-297795">Also read:&nbsp;Air India Express flight from Doha cancelled; five pilots test positive</a>

An alert system is also expected to be revealed in this address. The alert system will have different threat level from coronavirus. The levels will be ranked on a scale of one to five, with alerts ranging from green (level one) to red (level five).&nbsp;

The British government is planning to open the lockdown slowly and&nbsp;cautiously to revive its crippling economy.

"The message ... of staying at home now does need to be updated, we need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country," said Jenrick in an interview to a media organization.

As part of the test, track and trace phase, a contact tracing app being trialled on the Isle of Wight region of England and downloaded by about 50,000 people will also form a key part of the government's strategy to tackle the pandemic as the lockdown measures are gradually eased.

The change in slogan has not won everyone's appreciation, though. The opposition feels that the 'stay alert' message might not be very clear and can be a little confusing. However, Boris' government is taking every step to make sure the right message reaches everyone.

"Everyone has a role to play in helping to control the virus by staying alert and following the rules. This is how we can continue to save lives as we start to recover from coronavirus," Johnson said on Twitter on Sunday. This message is being spread across the country with other important messages such as "stay at home as much as possible', "limit contact with other people" and "keep your distance if you go out".

Britain has reported&nbsp;31,587 deaths and&nbsp;215,260 confirmed positive cases.

United Kingdom is ready to shift from 'stay home' to "stay alert". The social distancing message is being modified as the country is hoping to ease the lockdown restrictions.

United Kingdom is ready to shift from 'stay home' to "stay alert". The social distancing message is being modified as the country is hoping to ease the lockdown restrictions. United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be addressing the people on Sunday late evening. It is being expected that he will be announcing relaxations in the lockdown. Also read: UK wants to 'slowly and cautiously' ease lockdown to restart economy: Minister The UK enforced its "Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives" message as a slogan for the strict social distancing measures on March 23. "Stay Alert will mean stay alert by staying home as much as possible, but stay alert when you do go out by maintaining social distancing, washing your hands, respecting others in the workplace and the other settings that you'll go to," said Britain Housing Minister Robert Jenrick. Also read: Air India Express flight from Doha cancelled; five pilots test positive An alert system is also expected to be revealed in this address. The alert system will have different threat level from coronavirus. The levels will be ranked on a scale of one to five, with alerts ranging from green (level one) to red (level five). The British government is planning to open the lockdown slowly and cautiously to revive its crippling economy. "The message ... of staying at home now does need to be updated, we need to have a broader message because we want to slowly and cautiously restart the economy and the country," said Jenrick in an interview to a media organization. As part of the test, track and trace phase, a contact tracing app being trialled on the Isle of Wight region of England and downloaded by about 50,000 people will also form a key part of the government's strategy to tackle the pandemic as the lockdown measures are gradually eased. The change in slogan has not won everyone's appreciation, though. The opposition feels that the 'stay alert' message might not be very clear and can be a little confusing. However, Boris' government is taking every step to make sure the right message reaches everyone. "Everyone has a role to play in helping to control the virus by staying alert and following the rules. This is how we can continue to save lives as we start to recover from coronavirus," Johnson said on Twitter on Sunday. This message is being spread across the country with other important messages such as "stay at home as much as possible', "limit contact with other people" and "keep your distance if you go out". Britain has reported 31,587 deaths and 215,260 confirmed positive cases.

COVID-19: UK to now shift from 'stay home' to 'stay alert'

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to announce limited changes to coronavirus lockdown measures that have been in place for nearly seven weeks.

UK PM Boris Johnson to launch COVID-19 alert system | World News

The Bank of England expects UK'S economy to fall by 14% in 2020. The country could face its worse economic collapse in 300 years. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Coronavirus | The abysmal state of British economy

With each passing day, the UK's misery is only increasing and the coronavirus is behind the economic seizure. It is the second most-affected country in the world due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The country is now facing the risk of an economic collapse not seen in 300 years. The Bank of England says the economy will fall by 14 per cent this year.

Among the dust-gathering files, the UK's central bank found a similar event that literally put the economy in a deep freeze. It was the great frost of 1709. 
&nbsp; 
So this collapse is the worst in 300 years. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has a tough task. Over 200,000 coronavirus cases and 30,000 deaths have been reported so far. No wonder, the newly-elected leader of opposition Keir Starmer questioned the PM with utter perplexity.

On top of this, the UK government is planning to ease the lockdown restrictions next week.&nbsp;

But, companies say reopening will be difficult. Ao, why is Boris Johnson rushing to open up the economy?&nbsp; 
The answer lies with this man chancellor of the exchequer Rishi Sunak who has spent over eight billion pounds to save 6.3 million jobs at some 800,000 firms.

And this is just one of the many schemes announced to cushion the economy. So, the government is running low on funds both to fight the pandemic, and to rescue the economy.

Unemployment will rise above 9 per cent by the end of this year. Inflation could drop to zero next year. As of now, it remains below 2 per cent due to the fall in consumer spending by 30 per cent in recent weeks.

Interest rates are at a record low of 0.1 per cent, but British firms are in no position to take more loans. Three sectors are the worst hit - aviation, steel and auto. Their combined output is set to fall by 55 per cent. 
 
Johnson is due to announce the next steps in Britain’s battle to tackle the novel coronavirus on Sunday following a review by ministers of the current measures that have all but shut the economy and kept millions at home. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

With each passing day, the UK's misery is only increasing and the coronavirus is behind the economic seizure. It is the second most-affected country in the world due to the pandemic.

With each passing day, the UK's misery is only increasing and the coronavirus is behind the economic seizure. It is the second most-affected country in the world due to the pandemic. The country is now facing the risk of an economic collapse not seen in 300 years. The Bank of England says the economy will fall by 14 per cent this year. Among the dust-gathering files, the UK's central bank found a similar event that literally put the economy in a deep freeze. It was the great frost of 1709. So this collapse is the worst in 300 years. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has a tough task. Over 200,000 coronavirus cases and 30,000 deaths have been reported so far. No wonder, the newly-elected leader of opposition Keir Starmer questioned the PM with utter perplexity. On top of this, the UK government is planning to ease the lockdown restrictions next week. But, companies say reopening will be difficult. Ao, why is Boris Johnson rushing to open up the economy? The answer lies with this man chancellor of the exchequer Rishi Sunak who has spent over eight billion pounds to save 6.3 million jobs at some 800,000 firms. And this is just one of the many schemes announced to cushion the economy. So, the government is running low on funds both to fight the pandemic, and to rescue the economy. Unemployment will rise above 9 per cent by the end of this year. Inflation could drop to zero next year. As of now, it remains below 2 per cent due to the fall in consumer spending by 30 per cent in recent weeks. Interest rates are at a record low of 0.1 per cent, but British firms are in no position to take more loans. Three sectors are the worst hit - aviation, steel and auto. Their combined output is set to fall by 55 per cent. Johnson is due to announce the next steps in Britain’s battle to tackle the novel coronavirus on Sunday following a review by ministers of the current measures that have all but shut the economy and kept millions at home.

UK economy faces deepest downturn

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Wednesday he could order lockdown lifting starting next week. Johnson was speaking the day after the country's official virus death toll overtook Italy's to become the highest in Europe, with more than 32,000 fatalities related to COVID-19 -- behind only the United States in the global tallies, according to AFP.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Wednesday he could order lockdown lifting starting next week. Johnson was speaking the day after the country's official virus death toll overtook Italy's to become the highest in Europe, with more than 32,000 fatalities related to COVID-19 -- behind only the United States in the global tallies, according to AFP. The Prime Minister, however, warned he would do nothing to risk a new surge of cases. He said that "every death is a tragedy," calling the statistics "appalling", but insisted there was not yet enough data to make reliable international comparisons. In particular, he said he "bitterly regrets" the deaths in care homes, which stand at more than 6,000, but added that there had been a "palpable improvement" in the last few days. The wider death rate is coming down, six weeks after the government imposed stay-at-home orders to stem the rate of infection, and the lockdown measures are up for review on Thursday. Speaking in parliament for the first time since he himself was hospitalised with coronavirus, Johnson said the government would review the data and he would set out the next steps on Sunday. "We'll want if we possibly can to get going with some of these measures on Monday. I think it would be a good thing if people had an idea of what is coming," he said. (With inputs from AFP)

UK PM Johnson says country could start easing virus lockdown next week

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro held a rally amid the Coronavirus outbreak. Meanwhile, In Pakistan - Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi lost his cool when a journalist asked him about social distancing.

Gravitas: Leaders who chose to ignore social distancing rules

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders.

Why political leaders don't get social distancing? There's a palpable sense of fear about how infectious the coronavirus is. Also read: Coronavirus: Italy reopens with strict guidelines after nearly two months Rich or poor, young or old, nobody's immune to this virus, not even top political leaders. Leaders, who just don't understand the concept of social distancing. First, we had the British prime minister Boris Johnson. He wanted to shake hands with everybody -- even coronavirus patients. When confronted Johnson proudly stated that a virus will not stop him from greeting people. The virus only sent him to the ICU! Also read: Global coronavirus: Cases, death-toll and hotspots! Now we have another leader hell-bent on proving social distancing useless and his name is Jair Bolsonaro --- the president of Brazil. For 3 months now, Bolsonaro has downplayed how infectious this virus is. The trajectory of coronavirus in Brazil is reflective of Bolsonaro's denial. There are over 101,000 cases and counting. There have been more than 7,000 deaths. What does the Brazilian president plan on doing to break the chain of transmission? Yet here's what's happening in Brazil. A protest! The Brazilian president himself leads these protests. This is Jair Bolsonaro leading an anti-stay at home protest. Thousands of supporters were allowed into the courtyard of the presidential palace. Jair Bolsonaro himself did not wear a mask. He said: "Guys, it's a spontaneous demonstration, in defence of democracy, of freedom, to govern without interference to work for the future of Brazil. I am sure that this goal will be reached because we all want the good of our country. Thank you all, I will stay here for a while!" The virus was not too nice the last time a leader defied social distancing and then there are some leaders who are not too nice when questioned about social distancing. Like Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the Foreign Minister who is quite sprightly for his age. He turned up at a coronavirus treatment centre without a mask. He then decided to hold a press conference in defiance of social distancing. When confronted by reporters -- this lawmaker told them that they weren't following the rules either. He responded by calling it "negative thinking". Pakistan has recorded its highest spike in coronavirus cases with 1,900 new infections have been reported in the last 24 hours. The negative approach of the Pakistan government is doing enough damage.

Political leaders defy their own by breaking 'self-made' coronavirus protocols!

Children in approximately one-fifth of the homes in the United Kingdom are ''deprived'' of proper food to eat.

The number of households with children going hungry has doubled since lockdown began, as millions of people struggle to afford food according to&nbsp;data revealed by the Food Foundation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-tally-surpasses-35-million-amid-underreporting-concerns-296499" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus tally surpasses 3.5 million amid underreporting concerns</a>

In the past five weeks,&nbsp;children are skipping meals and are&nbsp;not getting enough to eat as already vulnerable families battle isolation and a loss of income.

Figures show 46 per cent of parents with a disabled child and 30 per cent of lone parents are facing food insecurity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-300000-smokers-in-uk-may-have-quit-due-to-covid-19-fears-296545" hreflang="en">Over 3,00,000 smokers in UK may have quit due to COVID-19 fears</a>

Schools have been closed for weeks, meaning no reprieves for children who depends on free school lunches or breakfast clubs.

According to the&nbsp;Food&nbsp;Foundation, of the 621,000 children who were accessing free breakfast clubs before the pandemic, only 136,000 are being provided with an alternative. However, 31% of children entitled to free school meals are still not getting any substitute, leaving more than 500,000 children going without.

While meal voucher schemes running in the country&nbsp;are&nbsp;beset with problems, food banks have been overwhelmed with demand during the lockdown and are struggling to cope.

Children in approximately one-fifth of the homes in the United Kingdom are ''deprived'' of proper food to eat. The number of households with children going hungry has doubled since lockdown began, as millions of people struggle to afford food according to data revealed by the Food Foundation.

Children in approximately one-fifth of the homes in the United Kingdom are ''deprived'' of proper food to eat. The number of households with children going hungry has doubled since lockdown began, as millions of people struggle to afford food according to data revealed by the Food Foundation. Also read: Global coronavirus tally surpasses 3.5 million amid underreporting concerns In the past five weeks, children are skipping meals and are not getting enough to eat as already vulnerable families battle isolation and a loss of income. Figures show 46 per cent of parents with a disabled child and 30 per cent of lone parents are facing food insecurity. Also read: Over 3,00,000 smokers in UK may have quit due to COVID-19 fears Schools have been closed for weeks, meaning no reprieves for children who depends on free school lunches or breakfast clubs. According to the Food Foundation, of the 621,000 children who were accessing free breakfast clubs before the pandemic, only 136,000 are being provided with an alternative. However, 31% of children entitled to free school meals are still not getting any substitute, leaving more than 500,000 children going without. While meal voucher schemes running in the country are beset with problems, food banks have been overwhelmed with demand during the lockdown and are struggling to cope.

UK: One-fifth homes are 'deprived' of food amid pandemic

Boris Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds have named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors

UK PM Boris Johnson and partner name new baby boy

The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care.

UK PM Boris Johnson opens up on his hospital stay & recovery

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson in an interview said that the doctors had a contingency plan ready when his health started getting worsening&nbsp;because of the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

"It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," Johnson said in an interview to the Sun.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnsons-son-named-after-doctors-who-saved-pms-life-296320">Boris Johnson's son named after doctors who 'saved' PM's life</a>

"They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-says-virus-death-toll-up-by-621-to-28131-296316">UK government says virus death toll up by 621 to 28,131</a>

"I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong."

The British PM first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but insisted he had only mild symptoms. However, later he was shited to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and admitted for three nights in intensive care.

Johnson, who was discharged on April 12 also said that his battle with COVID-19 "could have gone either way".

Johnson, who returned to work&nbsp;last Monday after a successful recovery from coronavirus has something more to cheer about when he became a father again as his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The couple announced the name of their child Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to the two infectious disease experts who are responsible for Johnson's treatment.&nbsp;

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson in an interview said that the doctors had a contingency plan ready when his health started getting worsening because of the novel coronavirus.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson in an interview said that the doctors had a contingency plan ready when his health started getting worsening because of the novel coronavirus. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," Johnson said in an interview to the Sun. Also read | Boris Johnson's son named after doctors who 'saved' PM's life "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario." Also read | UK government says virus death toll up by 621 to 28,131 "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." The British PM first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but insisted he had only mild symptoms. However, later he was shited to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and admitted for three nights in intensive care. Johnson, who was discharged on April 12 also said that his battle with COVID-19 "could have gone either way". Johnson, who returned to work last Monday after a successful recovery from coronavirus has something more to cheer about when he became a father again as his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday. The couple announced the name of their child Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to the two infectious disease experts who are responsible for Johnson's treatment.

Boris Johnson says doctors had contingency plans ready if he died of coronavirus

The United Kingdom (UK) government is expected to unveil plans to ease the lockdown in the country. The UK government will be revealing the plan this week.

This is after the Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the country, which was one of the worst-hit by coronavirus, is past the peak of the outbreak.

This plan is supposed to give a roadmap&nbsp;for easing the strict rules that were imposed in the country after a huge outbreak of coronavirus two months ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-millionaire-to-take-a-legal-action-against-the-government-for-crippling-economy-296358">Also read:&nbsp;UK millionaire to take a legal action against the government for crippling economy</a>

While the death toll stands at 28,131,&nbsp;according to the latest figures, the number of new cases and hospital infections has decreased.

The officials have been quoted by various local media organisations saying the businesses will not be open as per the normal schedule. However, the government may resume schools from&nbsp;early June, if the virus can be contained.

People travelling through public transport may be subjected to regular temperature checks, and wearing face masks in public places will be compulsory for the next few months.

As the country has been on a strict lockdown for the past two months, Bank of England has warned against the crippling economy, saying it could lead to the worst recession in centuries.

The United Kingdom (UK) government is expected to unveil plans to ease the lockdown in the country. The UK government will be revealing the plan this week. This is after the Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the country, which was one of the worst-hit by coronavirus, is past the peak of the outbreak.

The United Kingdom (UK) government is expected to unveil plans to ease the lockdown in the country. The UK government will be revealing the plan this week. This is after the Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the country, which was one of the worst-hit by coronavirus, is past the peak of the outbreak. This plan is supposed to give a roadmap for easing the strict rules that were imposed in the country after a huge outbreak of coronavirus two months ago. Also read: UK millionaire to take a legal action against the government for crippling economy While the death toll stands at 28,131, according to the latest figures, the number of new cases and hospital infections has decreased. The officials have been quoted by various local media organisations saying the businesses will not be open as per the normal schedule. However, the government may resume schools from early June, if the virus can be contained. People travelling through public transport may be subjected to regular temperature checks, and wearing face masks in public places will be compulsory for the next few months. As the country has been on a strict lockdown for the past two months, Bank of England has warned against the crippling economy, saying it could lead to the worst recession in centuries.

UK government to come up with a post-lockdown plan soon

The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has had the deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak among European countries. The figure was announced on Saturday (May 2) by housing minister Robert Jenrick at the daily Downing Street media briefing.

COVID-19 death toll in UK surpasses Spain & France

Boris Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds have named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved the British leader's life as he battled COVID-19 complications.

Boris Johnson's son named after doctors who 'saved' PM's life

Boris Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds have named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved the British leader's life as he battled COVID-19 complications.

Symonds announced the name on Saturday on Instagram beside a picture of her and the boy, who already has thick hair resembling the blond thatch of his father.

Symonds, 32, said Wilfred, who was born on Wednesday, was named after Johnson's grandfather, while Lawrie came from her grandfather.

The choice of Nicholas, Symonds said, was a nod to Nick Price and Nick Hart - two doctors who the couple have praised for saving Johnson's life at St Thomas' hospital last month.

"I couldn't be happier," Symonds said, adding her thanks to the maternity staff of University College London Hospital. "My heart is full."

Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday after recuperating from COVID-19, which had left him gravely ill in intensive care at the peak of the coronavirus outbreak. He thanked the doctors at St Thomas' hospital whom, he said, had "saved my life, no question".

"We are honoured and humbled to have been recognised in this way," said Price, director of infection at Guy's and St Thomas' hospital, and Hart, director of respiratory and critical care. "We wish the new family every health and happiness."

Symonds, a former public relations executive, also had symptoms of the virus but recovered more swiftly. She had said in February that the baby was due in early summer.

Johnson, who was present at the birth, will take a short period of paternity leave later in the year.

Baby in Downing street&nbsp;

Symonds and Johnson have been living together in Downing Street since he became prime minister in July. They announced in February they were expecting their first child and that they were engaged to be married.

Once dubbed "Bonking Boris" by Britain's tabloid media, Johnson has had a complicated private life.

He was once sacked from the Conservative Party's policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. He has been divorced twice and refuses to say how many children he has fathered.

In 2013, when Johnson was mayor of London, appeal court judges ruled that the public had the right to know he had an extra-marital affair with a woman who gave birth to his daughter.

Johnson's previous marriage was to Marina Wheeler, a lawyer. They had four children together but announced in September 2018 that they had separated. They divorced earlier this year.

Few British leaders have had babies while in office.

David Cameron's wife Samantha gave birth to their daughter, Florence, in 2010, and Tony Blair's wife Cherie gave birth to their son, Leo, in 2006.

Before that, Frances, the wife of John Russell, a 19th-Century Whig and Liberal politician, gave birth to two children in 1848 and 1849 while he was in office.

Boris Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds have named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved the British leader's life as he battled COVID-19 complications. Symonds announced the name on Saturday on Instagram beside a picture of her and the boy, who already has thick hair resembling the blond thatch of his father. Symonds, 32, said Wilfred, who was born on Wednesday, was named after Johnson's grandfather, while Lawrie came from her grandfather. The choice of Nicholas, Symonds said, was a nod to Nick Price and Nick Hart - two doctors who the couple have praised for saving Johnson's life at St Thomas' hospital last month. "I couldn't be happier," Symonds said, adding her thanks to the maternity staff of University College London Hospital. "My heart is full." Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday after recuperating from COVID-19, which had left him gravely ill in intensive care at the peak of the coronavirus outbreak. He thanked the doctors at St Thomas' hospital whom, he said, had "saved my life, no question". "We are honoured and humbled to have been recognised in this way," said Price, director of infection at Guy's and St Thomas' hospital, and Hart, director of respiratory and critical care. "We wish the new family every health and happiness." Symonds, a former public relations executive, also had symptoms of the virus but recovered more swiftly. She had said in February that the baby was due in early summer. Johnson, who was present at the birth, will take a short period of paternity leave later in the year. Baby in Downing street Symonds and Johnson have been living together in Downing Street since he became prime minister in July. They announced in February they were expecting their first child and that they were engaged to be married. Once dubbed "Bonking Boris" by Britain's tabloid media, Johnson has had a complicated private life. He was once sacked from the Conservative Party's policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. He has been divorced twice and refuses to say how many children he has fathered. In 2013, when Johnson was mayor of London, appeal court judges ruled that the public had the right to know he had an extra-marital affair with a woman who gave birth to his daughter. Johnson's previous marriage was to Marina Wheeler, a lawyer. They had four children together but announced in September 2018 that they had separated. They divorced earlier this year. Few British leaders have had babies while in office. David Cameron's wife Samantha gave birth to their daughter, Florence, in 2010, and Tony Blair's wife Cherie gave birth to their son, Leo, in 2006. Before that, Frances, the wife of John Russell, a 19th-Century Whig and Liberal politician, gave birth to two children in 1848 and 1849 while he was in office.

United Kingdom has met its target of carrying out more than 1,00,000 tests for pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19).

UK meets its target of carrying out more than 1,00,000 COVID-19 tests

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday (April 30) said Britain was now past the peak of its coronavirus outbreak and promised to set out a lockdown exit strategy next week, despite rising deaths and criticism of his government's response.

UK PM Boris Johnson: UK did the right thing at the right time

Londoners welcomed the news that Prime Minister Boris Johnson's fiancee, Carrie Symonds, gave birth to a baby boy on Wednesday (April 29). The baby was born at a London hospital slightly earlier than had been expected.

Boris Johnson welcomes a baby boy: How twitter reacted to the news

A new report claims that the British govt 'sleepwalked' into the Coronavirus disaster. It says that all warnings about an impending crisis fell on deaf ears at 10 Downing Street.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: Did Britain 'sleepwalk' into a disaster?

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and fiancee Carrie Symonds have announced the birth of their first baby boy. The baby was delivered at a government-run hospital in London on Wednesday.

The birth was premature, but the baby boy was born health and Carrie has been reported to be healthy too.&nbsp;"The Prime Minister and Symonds are thrilled to announce the birth of a healthy baby boy at a London hospital earlier this morning. Both mother and baby are doing very well. The PM and Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS (National Health Service) maternity team,"&nbsp;a spokesperson for the couple told the media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-hold-a-minutes-silence-for-fallen-frontline-workers-295277">Also read:&nbsp;UK to hold a minute's silence for fallen frontline workers</a>

The couple had announced the news of Carrie expecting a baby, and their engagement at the end of February.

The news comes after Boris Johnson fought his battle against coronaviru and joined the office few days ago.&nbsp;He had been recuperating at his Chequers countryside retreat in Buckinghamshire, where he was joined by his pregnant fiancee.

Carrie had also tweeted about Borris' recovery and had thanked the NHS for their support and good work. She was, too, in isolation with the fear of developing symptoms.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and fiancee Carrie Symonds have announced the birth of their first baby boy. The baby was delivered at a government-run hospital in London on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and fiancee Carrie Symonds have announced the birth of their first baby boy. The baby was delivered at a government-run hospital in London on Wednesday. The birth was premature, but the baby boy was born health and Carrie has been reported to be healthy too. "The Prime Minister and Symonds are thrilled to announce the birth of a healthy baby boy at a London hospital earlier this morning. Both mother and baby are doing very well. The PM and Symonds would like to thank the fantastic NHS (National Health Service) maternity team," a spokesperson for the couple told the media. Also read: UK to hold a minute's silence for fallen frontline workers The couple had announced the news of Carrie expecting a baby, and their engagement at the end of February. The news comes after Boris Johnson fought his battle against coronaviru and joined the office few days ago. He had been recuperating at his Chequers countryside retreat in Buckinghamshire, where he was joined by his pregnant fiancee. Carrie had also tweeted about Borris' recovery and had thanked the NHS for their support and good work. She was, too, in isolation with the fear of developing symptoms.

Boris Johnson and fiancee Carrie Symonds welcome a baby boy

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has returned to 10 Downing Street. Meanwhile Russia has surpassed China's tally of Coronavirus cases.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: The big global developments for April 27

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12.

He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray.

But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump.

Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone.

"I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers.

But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress.

"I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday.

"When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors."

Growing criticism

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak.

But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures.

In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests.

Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day.

The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes.

While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

"The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television.

"This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce."

Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus.

But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours.

The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment".

He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus.

Deep recession

There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7.

Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak.

There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban.

The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries".

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools.

Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to return to work soon after his recovery from COVID-19, as pressure mounts on his government to explain how to get Britain out of lockdown. Johnson, 55, has been recuperating at the British prime ministerial retreat, Chequers, outside London since his release from hospital on April 12. He spent three days in intensive care and later admitted that "things could have gone either way", forcing him to take it easy before returning to the political fray. But there have been increasing signs his return to Downing Street could be imminent, after officials said he had spoken to Queen Elizabeth II and also US President Donald Trump. Trump on Thursday said Johnson was full of "tremendous energy" and sounded "incredible" when they talked on the phone. "I was actually surprised... he was ready to go," he told reporters. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The Daily Telegraph, Johnson's former employer, suggested he could be back at his desk on Monday, and hold briefing meetings with individual cabinet ministers. But Health Secretary Matt Hancock was more cautious, despite the prime minister's progress. "I spoke to him yesterday, he's cheerful, and he's ebullient and he's definitely on the mend in a big way," he said on Friday. "When exactly he comes back is a matter for him and his doctors." Growing criticism Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been deputising since Johnson was taken to hospital on April 6, chairing cabinet meetings about political strategy to fight the outbreak. But while nominally in charge, Raab as "first secretary of state" would have required overall cabinet approval to take any major decisions, such as easing lockdown measures. In reality, Raab, senior minister Michael Gove and Health Minister Matt Hancock have largely shared the leadership burden in Johnson's absence, which has coincided with the suspected peak in hospital deaths and positive tests. Britain has been one of the worst-hit countries in the world by the virus, with hundreds of deaths reported every day. The actual death toll could rise further when deaths in the community are taken into account, particularly from care homes. While Johnson was away, senior ministers have faced collective criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. "The government hasn't been as agile as it should have been," Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the council of the British Medical Association (BMA), told Sky News television. "This is extremely emotionally taxing and it's showing its toll on the healthcare workforce." Johnson has received support during his illness, which has been seen as a clear demonstration of the indiscriminate nature of the virus. But sympathy could wane as he once again becomes the focal point of the government if issues about gaps in PPE supply and lack of testing persist. Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise His actions in the early days of the outbreak came in for harsh criticism last week, after he held off introducing strict measures adopted by European neighbours. The main opposition Labour party leader Keir Starmer accused the government of being "slow into lockdown, slow on testing, slow on protective equipment". He will also be expected to immediately explain how he plans to get the country's economy up and running again while controlling the spread of the virus. Deep recession There have been growing demands for an exit strategy from the current national lockdown, which was first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and is due for review on May 7. Ministers have so far refused publicly to speculate on when restrictions will be lifted, saying that experts were not sure Britain was over the peak of the outbreak. There have been calls for more clarity, however, including from within Johnson's ruling Conservative party, as the economic consequences of the outbreak become more stark. Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith said the government needed to "bite the bullet and do it", as some businesses began reopening despite the ban. The Bank of England warned on Thursday that the country faces its worst recession in "several centuries". Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also upped the ante by revealing her broader strategy, including the possible phased reopening of some businesses and schools. Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster has also suggested she could lift restrictions before England.

Boris Johnson set to return to office as pressure mounts to explain UK virus plan

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).

However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-recuperating-from-covid-19-faces-lockdown-conundrum-294504">Also read:&nbsp;UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum</a>

The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic.

In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE.

"Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual.

"They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-death-toll-drops-in-last-24-hours-as-infection-cases-rise-294338">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise</a>

The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government.

Until now, membership of the &nbsp;committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public.

Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate.

"The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-another-patient-new-zealand-nurse-tells-of-treating-british-pm-for-coronavirus-294210">Also read:&nbsp;'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus</a>

The UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers.

Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures.

There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy.

Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed.

On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach.

Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000.

The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506.

In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain.

Boris Johnson's government on Saturday was embroiled in a political row after it emerged his chief advisor attended meetings of the main scientific group advising ministers on the coronavirus pandemic in Britain. Downing Street was forced to deny that Dominic Cummings and another advisor, Ben Warner, were members of the politically independent Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, following reports in The Guardian newspaper, the government admitted that Cummings had sat in on group meetings, prompting the opposition Labour Party to ask for "answers" over his exact role. Also read: UK PM Johnson, recuperating from COVID-19, faces lockdown conundrum The row emerged as the government's general COVID-19 approach came under increasing scrutiny and the official death toll approached 20,000 in one of the countries worst hit by the pandemic. In a statement, a Number 10 spokesman said: "It is not true that Mr Cummings or Dr Warner are 'on' or members of SAGE. "Mr Cummings and Dr Warner have attended some SAGE meetings and listen to some meetings now they are all virtual. "They do this in order to understand better the scientific debates concerning this emergency and also to understand better the limits of how science and data can help government decisions." Also read: COVID-19: UK death toll drops in last 24 hours as infection cases rise The statement added that it was "factually wrong and damaging to sensible public debate" to suggest the committee's advice was affected by the government. Until now, membership of the committee, which is a key body in shaping the UK's response to the pandemic, has not been made public. Labour's health spokesman, John Ashworth told BBC radio on Saturday that his "concern" was "that political advisers have influenced the debate. "The way to clear this up is for all the minutes to be published; we've called on the government to do this," he said. Also read: 'Just another patient': New Zealand nurse tells of treating British PM for coronavirus The UK government has come under increasing pressure on a number of fronts in recent weeks, including criticism over shortages in personal protective equipment and a lack of widespread testing, particularly of frontline health and social care workers. Questions have also been asked why it was slow in enforcing a nationwide lockdown to enforce social distancing measures. There are also growing demands for a government exit strategy from the current lockdown, first imposed on March 23, extended on April 16 and due for review on May 7, as concerns grow over the huge impact the crisis is having on the economy. Meanwhile, a new website to offer testing for up to 10 million key workers and their families has been overwhelmed. On Saturday, health officials announced that as many as 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could be treated with plasma from people who have recovered from the illness as part of a new approach. Figures expected later on Saturday could push Britain's official death toll past 20,000. The number of deaths for COVID-19 in hospital currently stands at 19,506. In March, the UK's chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Vallance, said keeping the number of UK fatalities to less than 20,000 would be "a good outcome".

Political row hits UK govt as virus death toll nears 20,000

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is recovering well from grave COVID-19 complications and will be back at work soon.

"He is all fine now, as he is fully recovering, doing what we are asking people across the country to do, he is taking the advice of the medical experts and the doctors and doing as the doctors outlined him to do," Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said on Thursday.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him back in full swing and in full grip of the reins as prime minister of the country. I'm sure he will be very soon, I am sure he will be very keen to get back but I think he is also doing the right thing."

Johnson tested positive at the end of March, and after 10 days holed up in Downing Street was admitted to hospital. Twenty-four hours later he was moved to intensive care.

He was given oxygen, although he was not put on a ventilator, and in a video message, he said he had been in real danger.

Johnson's government has faced questions about whether it was too slow to impose the lockdown, keeping pubs, shops and schools open even while they shut across Europe.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is recovering well from grave COVID-19 complications and will be back at work soon. "He is all fine now, as he is fully recovering, doing what we are asking people across the country to do, he is taking the advice of the medical experts and the doctors and doing as the doctors outlined him to do," Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is recovering well from grave COVID-19 complications and will be back at work soon. "He is all fine now, as he is fully recovering, doing what we are asking people across the country to do, he is taking the advice of the medical experts and the doctors and doing as the doctors outlined him to do," Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said on Thursday. "I'm looking forward to seeing him back in full swing and in full grip of the reins as prime minister of the country. I'm sure he will be very soon, I am sure he will be very keen to get back but I think he is also doing the right thing." Johnson tested positive at the end of March, and after 10 days holed up in Downing Street was admitted to hospital. Twenty-four hours later he was moved to intensive care. He was given oxygen, although he was not put on a ventilator, and in a video message, he said he had been in real danger. Johnson's government has faced questions about whether it was too slow to impose the lockdown, keeping pubs, shops and schools open even while they shut across Europe.

UK PM Boris Johnson to be back at work soon

The British government's&nbsp;chief medical adviser,&nbsp;Chris Whitty, has said that the country will have to live with some disruptive social measures for at least the rest of the year&nbsp;to prevent fresh outbreaks of Covid-19.

The senior-most medic of UK said it said it was important to be realistic that ''highly disruptive''&nbsp;social distancing would need to be in place for ''really quite a long period of time''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-scientists-companies-in-uk-could-put-covid-19-vaccine-in-human-trials-soon-294106" hreflang="en">Several scientists, companies in UK could put COVID-19 vaccine in human trials soon</a>

In the government's daily coronavirus briefing,&nbsp;Whitty said that the chances of&nbsp;a vaccine or treatments being ready for use this year are ''incredibly small'' and therefore, social distancing will&nbsp;have to stay in place to suppress outbreaks until then.

"This disease is not going to be eradicated, it is not going to disappear.&nbsp;So we have to accept that we are working with a disease that we are going to be with globally... for the foreseeable future," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-no-mistake-coronavirus-will-be-with-us-for-a-long-time-who-chief-tedros-294088">Make no mistake, coronavirus will be with us for a long time: WHO chief Tedros</a>

Whitty also said that it was "wholly unrealistic" to expect life would suddenly return to normal soon.

His stark assessment dampened hopes that the lockdown would be largely removed when it is reviewed in just over a fortnight.

However, United Kingdom has already reached the peak of the current epidemic.&nbsp;

The British government's chief medical adviser, Chris Whitty, has said that the country will have to live with some disruptive social measures for at least the rest of the year to prevent fresh outbreaks of Covid-19.

The British government's chief medical adviser, Chris Whitty, has said that the country will have to live with some disruptive social measures for at least the rest of the year to prevent fresh outbreaks of Covid-19. The senior-most medic of UK said it said it was important to be realistic that ''highly disruptive'' social distancing would need to be in place for ''really quite a long period of time''. Also read: Several scientists, companies in UK could put COVID-19 vaccine in human trials soon In the government's daily coronavirus briefing, Whitty said that the chances of a vaccine or treatments being ready for use this year are ''incredibly small'' and therefore, social distancing will have to stay in place to suppress outbreaks until then. "This disease is not going to be eradicated, it is not going to disappear. So we have to accept that we are working with a disease that we are going to be with globally... for the foreseeable future," he added. Also read: Make no mistake, coronavirus will be with us for a long time: WHO chief Tedros Whitty also said that it was "wholly unrealistic" to expect life would suddenly return to normal soon. His stark assessment dampened hopes that the lockdown would be largely removed when it is reviewed in just over a fortnight. However, United Kingdom has already reached the peak of the current epidemic.

UK's Covid-19 social restrictions to remain for 'rest of year'

The UK government is facing criticism over the COVID-19 pandemic. The European Union and UK opposition leader Keir Starmer have both the government's action towards containing the spread of coronavirus.

UK government faces flak over COVID-19 response

The United Kingdom scrambles to fight COVID-19. UK reported atleast 8,000 extra deaths in 1st week of April. Watch this video to get more details.

UK scrambles to fight COVID-19, at least 8,000 extra deaths reported in April 1st week

Recently, discharged from hospital after being treated from the coronavirus, British PM Boris Johnson returned to work on April 21. He spoke with US President Donald Trump over a phone call. Both the leaders discussed the need to reopen economies.

UK PM Boris Johnson agrees on the need to reopen economies: Spoke to Donald Trump over call

UK PM Boris Johnson speaks to Donald Trump

The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Social distancing rules demanding people stay two metres apart mean only 50 MPs will be able to sit in the 650-strong lower House of Commons at any one time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-drop-to-new-low-in-uk-with-449-fatalities-in-24-hours-16509-dead-293668" hreflang="en">Coronavirus deaths drop to new low in UK with 449 fatalities in 24 hours; 16,509 dead</a>

They are instead being asked to call in via Zoom, an internet video conferencing service, in a first for the 700-year-old parliament.

Screens will be placed around the chamber so that those physically present , themselves separated by tape and signs on the green benches, can see their colleagues dialling in.

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-tedros-politicises-covid-19-pandemic-on-social-media-293650" hreflang="en">Now, Tedros 'politicises' COVID-19 pandemic on social media</a>

Parliament began its Easter holiday a week early last month due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has so far killed more than 16,500 people in Britain.

Britain remains on lockdown, with people asked to stay at home, but MPs were determined that parliament return as planned on Tuesday.

"In times of crisis, we must find new ways of working, just as we have done throughout history," said Commons speaker Lindsay Hoyle.

He added: "It will be a historic moment in our 700 years of history, to have MPs contributing to prime minister's questions, urgent questions and statements via videolink from the safety of their homes and offices."

Johnson's Conservatives are under mounting pressure over their response to the outbreak, from years of underfunding the health service to the decision to delay imposing a nationwide lockdown.

As healthcare staff continue to complain about a lack of protective equipment, and testing for coronavirus remains limited, debate is shifting to how the confinement measures can be eased.

Raphael Hogarth of the Institute for Government think tank said parliament did not approve the lockdown but must play a role in what comes next.

''Decisions over imposing the lockdown had to be made at pace, but decisions on the exit strategy do not need to be made as rapidly -- and must be made more transparently," he said.

MPs who attend in person on Tuesday will be asked to approve the new measures and the option to dial in to certain sessions will begin on Wednesday.

There will be a limit of 120 MPs allowed to join via videoconference, and there is currently no way for MPs to vote digitally.

The unelected upper House of Lords is also trialling a new way of operating using Microsoft Teams software, although proceedings will not

London was particularly hard hit and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among many in parliament who became infected. He is still recovering after a week in hospital.be broadcast live to the public.

The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

The British parliament returns on Tuesday from an extended Easter break, with MPs encouraged to attend via videolink for the first time as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Social distancing rules demanding people stay two metres apart mean only 50 MPs will be able to sit in the 650-strong lower House of Commons at any one time. Also read: Coronavirus deaths drop to new low in UK with 449 fatalities in 24 hours; 16,509 dead They are instead being asked to call in via Zoom, an internet video conferencing service, in a first for the 700-year-old parliament. Screens will be placed around the chamber so that those physically present , themselves separated by tape and signs on the green benches, can see their colleagues dialling in. Also read: Now, Tedros 'politicises' COVID-19 pandemic on social media Parliament began its Easter holiday a week early last month due to the outbreak of COVID-19, which has so far killed more than 16,500 people in Britain. Britain remains on lockdown, with people asked to stay at home, but MPs were determined that parliament return as planned on Tuesday. "In times of crisis, we must find new ways of working, just as we have done throughout history," said Commons speaker Lindsay Hoyle. He added: "It will be a historic moment in our 700 years of history, to have MPs contributing to prime minister's questions, urgent questions and statements via videolink from the safety of their homes and offices." Johnson's Conservatives are under mounting pressure over their response to the outbreak, from years of underfunding the health service to the decision to delay imposing a nationwide lockdown. As healthcare staff continue to complain about a lack of protective equipment, and testing for coronavirus remains limited, debate is shifting to how the confinement measures can be eased. Raphael Hogarth of the Institute for Government think tank said parliament did not approve the lockdown but must play a role in what comes next. ''Decisions over imposing the lockdown had to be made at pace, but decisions on the exit strategy do not need to be made as rapidly -- and must be made more transparently," he said. MPs who attend in person on Tuesday will be asked to approve the new measures and the option to dial in to certain sessions will begin on Wednesday. There will be a limit of 120 MPs allowed to join via videoconference, and there is currently no way for MPs to vote digitally. The unelected upper House of Lords is also trialling a new way of operating using Microsoft Teams software, although proceedings will not London was particularly hard hit and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among many in parliament who became infected. He is still recovering after a week in hospital.be broadcast live to the public.

UK parliament returns with virtual virus measures

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