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Day 74: Key points from today's conference

Posted on May 2020 By Aaron Liffen

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Today's important government coronavirus conference was led by PM Boris Johnson, who was joined by the government’s chief medical adviser, Professor Chris Whitty, and its chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance as he outlined what lockdown restrictions will be eased as we edge closer to June 1st, marking the entry into phase 3 of the lockdown.

Boris Johnson announces 37,837 people have now died with coronavirus - an increase of 377 deaths since yesterday.

Key points to take away from today's speech are:

  • The PM runs through the five tests for lifting the lockdown mentioned in previous updates, and confirms the UK is meets all 5 tests, allowing further eases to restrictions.



  • From Monday, up to six people will be able to meet outside as long as those from different households remain two metres apart. People will also be allowed to meet in gardens and other private outdoor spaces, the PM announces.

  • The PM stresses that people should not be inside the homes of their friends and families, unless it is to access gardens. Also, those who are being asked to shield themselves should continue to do so, Mr Johnson says.

  • The PM warns there will be further "local outbreaks" in future and "where necessary" lockdown measures could be reimposed.

  • The government's chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, reveals the rate of infection has fallen



  • The briefing pauses for a moment, as a video is played out explaining the new test and trace system being launched in England. More info on this can be found here.

  • Sir Patrick says it is still the case that the "vast majority" of people will not have been infected with coronavirus.

  • Mr Johnson notes how Durham Police said they won't take any further action against his chief adviser and says he wants to "draw a line" over the issue.

  • The PM was asked how long how people can stay at their families' home, could they stay overnight and can they use the toilet while there? Mr Johnson says he hopes people understand the "limited" nature of what has been announced. He says the government doesn't want people to stay overnight.

To read a brief summary of last night's points and important measures click here.