'Far too vague' or 'clear as a bell'? - What Gazette readers thought of Boris Johnson's 'road map' for easing coronavirus lockdown

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the nation in a televised address on Sunday, May 10 that there would be ‘no immediate end’ to coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

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But his 'road map’ for easing the Covid-19 lockdown has drawn criticism from some, with businesses, unions and police among those calling for clarity on what’s next.

As the broadcast took place, dozens of readers got in touch on social media to share their views on the future fight against coronavirus.

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The key points from Sunday’s address include the introduction of a new Covid Alert System with levels between one and five, unlimited amount of outdoor exercise from Wednesday, May 13 and bigger fines for those who break social distancing rules.

Boris Johnson gave an address to the nation on Sunday, May 10.Boris Johnson gave an address to the nation on Sunday, May 10.
Boris Johnson gave an address to the nation on Sunday, May 10.

People who cannot work from home are also being actively encouraged to go back to work from today, but should avoid public transport.

Here’s what you said on the Northumberland Gazette Facebook page:

James Clare: “I thought he was good. It's clear enough to us in our house. It was basically enabling people to start to look at returning to work where necessary and where they can.”

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Lindy Lou Hammond: “A kick in the teeth to those of us that live in tourist areas, areas that lie on popular walking routes, and near the beaches.”

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Kenneth Wright: “The Prime Minister’s speech is clear as a bell. The war against Covid-19 will bring the country to its knees unless he takes action but like all battles you plan for a percentage of fatalities. Back to work.”

Jo Walton: “Far too vague.”

Bob Forster: “Sounded pretty clear as a map on the way forward. But if people behave like they did on VE day then lockdown will return quickly.”

Robin Welsh: “Easily understandable, can't understand what everyone's issue is. Observe the two-metre rule, go to work if you are unable to work from home, try to travel by foot or bicycle or your car.”

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Bryony Stimpson: “Utterly confusing, but will increase infection rate in North Northumberland as floodgates opened to tourists.”

Phil Hopper: “Did people listen to a different speech to the one Johnson gave? I'm reading comments about how clear his message was, but to me it seemed as ambiguous as possible.”

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