Coronavirus: PM salutes public's 'huge efforts' in crisis fight
Date published: 19 March 2020
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has saluted the country for its "huge efforts" in complying with the government's advice during the ongoing Coronavirus crisis.
At his latest daily press briefing this afternoon, Mr Johnson said "we can turn the tide within the next 12 weeks."
He added: "I'm absolutely confident we can send the virus packing in this country."
The PM stated that UK scientists are 'rapidly becoming so much better at understanding' the disease and how to tackle it, with the first corona patient now having been put into randomised trial on drugs that may treat the disease.
Confirmed cases worldwide have now passed the 220,000 mark, while the total of deaths nears 9,000.
Meanwhile, the Bank of England has cut interest rates again in an emergency move as it tries to support the UK economy in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
It is the second cut in interest rates in just over a week, bringing them down to 0.1% from 0.25%.
Interest rates are now at the lowest ever in the Bank's 325-year history.
The Queen has had her say on the Coronavirus outbreak for the first time.
In a statement earlier, she said: "Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe.
"I am certain we are up to that challenge.
"You can be assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part.”
In the world of sport, Latics and the whole of English football will be suspended until at least April 30 because of the continued spread of coronavirus.
All games in England's Premier League, EFL, Women's Super League and Women's Championship, and all fixtures in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, are currently postponed.
The Football Association has also agreed that the current season can be "extended indefinitely".
Under current rules the season had been scheduled to end on June 1.
For comprehensive NHS Coronavirus advice and guidance, click here
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