Boris Johnson to write to every household in UK urging people to stay indoors

A letter from the Prime Minister will be sent to 30 millions households across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland from next week.

In it Mr Johnson, who himself tested positive for coronavirus earlier this week, will urge people to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. The move is expected to cost almost £6m to print and distribute.

He will also outline the guidance everyone should follow and the measures the Government has put in place to fight coronavirus and to support businesses and workers.

Join our new coronavirus Facebook group for the latest confirmed news and advice as soon as we get it www.facebook.com/groups/yorkshirecoronavirusThe letter will say: “We know things will get worse before they get better.

“But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal.

“I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus, in particular the staff in our fantastic NHS and care sector across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour.

“Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable.

“That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

A leaflet outlining the Government’s advice, with clear explanations of symptoms, hand washing guidance, rules on leaving the house, self-isolating with symptoms and shielding vulnerable people will also be included with the letter.

The leaflet contains UK-wide information as well as directions about where to access online guidance specific to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.