Prime Minister Boris Johnson has moved to reassert his authority over the UK's response to the coronavirus pandemic, setting out a conditional lockdown exit strategy and rebuking First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for her criticism of the new 'stay alert' slogan. In a televised address to the nation, Johnson emphasised his role as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, stating he had consulted across all four nations and believed there was a 'strong resolve to defeat this together'.
The new slogan, 'stay alert, control the virus, save lives', replaces the previous 'stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives' message. Sturgeon had earlier launched a furious attack on Johnson for dropping the 'stay at home' mantra without consulting her, insisting she would continue to use the original message in Scotland. She warned that 'people will die unnecessarily' if progress against the disease is squandered by easing up too soon or sending mixed messages.
Johnson's address outlined a three-phase plan to ease restrictions, with schools not expected to reopen until June 1 'at the earliest'. Pupils in reception, Year 1 and Year 6 would be the first to return, while most secondary pupils would not go back until September. However, both Wales and Scotland have dismissed the idea of reopening schools in June, with Sturgeon suggesting little prospect of a return before August.
Sturgeon hit back after Johnson's address, accusing him of failing to make clear that his lockdown exit strategy mainly applied to England. She said it was 'incumbent on him' to stress that his comments on lifting restrictions were for England only. The open row came as senior Tories accused the SNP of exploiting the crisis in a 'tasteless' bid to fuel its independence campaign.
