In an emergency address this evening, the Prime Minister moved to order the immediate closure of all stores selling non-essential goods saying that only food retailers and pharmacies may remain open. This follows the closure order for pubs, cafes, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and other places of entertainment; and has extended to now include all hair and beauty salons, libraries, churches and other gathering places. Consumers were also warned not to congregate or flood parks and other open spaces, as well as not to travel unless doing so to perform essential work, to shop just for necessities or attend medical appointments.
The ‘stay at home’ message was repeatedly stressed by the PM who warned that there would be severe consequences if the spread of coronavirus was not delayed as well as punishment for anyone wantonly breaching the guidance. The goal is to slow the spread of the virus as well as to protect the more vulnerable members of society.
A number of retailers had already taken the opportunity to close their stores over the past week in the expectation that it would soon become mandatory.
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