Martin said the government’s aim was to return to Level 3 by Dec. 1. Harder hit Northern Ireland last week shut schools for two weeks and restaurants for four, although most retailers remain open. In Wales, people have been asked to stay at home in a two-week “fire-break” lockdown announced on Monday. To cushion the blow, the government will increase the amount it contributes to coronavirus-related jobless payments and wage subsidies until Jan. 31. The finance ministry forecast that the economy could contract again next year if there is a prolonged period of stringent restrictions.

Source: Hindustan Times October 20, 2020 03:08 UTC