24 Sep

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced measures to curb a new surge in coronavirus cases.

The number of new infections in the country started rising again, after authorities eased restrictions. New daily cases in September have occasionally topped 4,000.

Johnson announced the new measures on Tuesday. Among them is one that requires all pubs, bars, and restaurants in England to close by 10 p.m. starting on Thursday.

Johnson said, "If people don't follow the rules we have set out, then we must reserve the right to go further."

He asked office employees to work from home, if they can. This marks a turnaround from the previous directive, which called on people to return to their workplaces.

The government has also decided to postpone a plan to ease restrictions on spectators at sporting events. The restrictions were due to be eased in October.

Johnson warned that the new measures could remain in effect for up to six months.

NHK