'Stay at home': A simple message to protect NHS staff and save lives - the YEP says

Enforced social distancing that – for now – falls just short of a total lockdown, Boris Johnson had to act swiftly after so many people appeared to defy medical advice at the weekend by flocking to parks and open spaces.

And while the new protocols, to be reviewed after three weeks, are contrary to the PM’s liberal instincts, he was acutely aware – in a sombre address – that the health of the nation, and countless lives, are on the line.

And if people don’t comply with Mr Johnson’s “very simple instruction” to “stay at home”, the consequences could be catastrophic.

His warning was stark: stay at home to protect our frontline NHS staff and ultimately save lives.