British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a national lockdown across England, in wake of the rapid spread of a new variant of the Corona Virus. The lockdown is likely to continue till the middle of February.

In a televised address to the nation Johnson said, “It is both frustrating and alarming to see the speed with which the new variant is spreading. Our scientists have confirmed that this new variant is between 50-70 percent more transmissible.” On a grimmer note, he added, “The number of deaths is up by 20 percent over the last week and will sadly rise further.”

Announcing that the national lockdown was essential, Johnson said, “The Government is once against instructing you to stay at home.”

The lockdown has raised special concerns about schools and colleges, for which the Prime Minister announced special provisions were being made to support remote education. The Education Secretary was also making provisions of free school meals to eligible pupils even while schools are closed.

The entire televised address of British PM Boris Johnson may be viewed here:

Scotland had earlier issued a stay-at-home order, while schools and colleges in Wales will remain shut till January 18.

* Feature image by UK government via Wikimedia Commons.