Coronavirus: Scientists warning over lockdown rules

Scientists who advise the government say lockdown is being eased too soon in England.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that groups of up to six people will be allowed to meet outside from Monday.

However, Professor John Edmunds and Sir Jeremy Farrar, who are part of a group of scientists that give advice to the government said there is a risk in allowing the gradual reopening of shops and schools, while letting people meet up again in parks or gardens.

The scientists have given this warning because the number of new coronavirus cases has continued to stay relatively high.

Professor Edmunds says he and and many scientists would like to see the numbers "driven down to lower levels, because that then means that we have fewer cases occurring before we relaxed the measures", adding it was a "political decision" to lift lockdown and that "many" scientists would wait.

The warnings come as 'Sage', the group of scientists advising government, publish details of their confidential meetings.

Sir Jeremy Farrar added that the newly-introduced NHS test and trace system needed to be "fully working" before lockdown should be relaxed.

He tweeted: "COVID-19 spreading too fast to lift lockdown in England."

The change in rules in England, means that from Monday people can meet in gardens and private outdoor spaces, provided they keep two metres apart and maintain social distancing.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "These changes mean friends and family will start to meet loved ones," in what would be a "long-awaited and joyful moment".

On Thursday the Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced changed to the lockdown rules in England

He also confirmed that some schools will reopen to more children from Monday.

And outdoor shops will reopen too - places like outdoor retail and car showrooms - that allow for social distancing to be maintained.

Last week, Nicola Sturgeon announced plans for how Scotland's lockdown rules are also changing.

The Prime Minister said these rules will remain under review, but said that for now they have passed the five tests.

The tests have to be met before certain restrictions are eased.

Boris Johnson said all these tests had been met which is why some lockdown restrictions could now be eased.

The prime minister said the government would be monitoring the virus very carefully and if needed restrictions would be put in place once more.