They also said the guidelines weren't mandatory and that the mixed messaging could undermine efforts to keep a lid on the virus by creating unnecessary confusion. Keir Starmer, the leader of the main opposition Labour Party, accused the government of behaving in an “utterly shameful” fashion by not informing people in areas affected. “Local lockdowns are the wrong approach for both public health and local economies,” he said. He insisted that the onus was on personal responsibility and that the government is still intending to take a national approach to lifting restrictions. The next easing is planned for June 21 and is intended to involve the lifting of all social restrictions.

Source: ABC News May 25, 2021 10:48 UTC