Uk, Saudi Arabia Adopt Measures

“There are careful but deliberate steps on the road to rebuilding our country,’’-Boris Johnson

“The phases start gradually until we return to normalcy, with its new concept based on social distancing.”-Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, Saudi Health Minister

Notwithstanding the discontinuation of clinical trials of Hydroxychloroquine by the WHO and even as cases of

Britain will reopen thousands of high street shops, department stores and shopping centres next month, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Johnson also set out a timetable for businesses as part of moves to ease the coronavirus (COVID19) lockdown.

He told a news conference that from June 1, outdoor markets and care showrooms could be reopened as soon as they are able to meet the COVID-19 secure guidelines.

All other non-essential retail could reopen from June 15 if the government’s guidelines are met.

“There are careful but deliberate steps on the road to rebuilding our country,’’

Saudi Arabia announced the easing of restrictions that has halted much of the activity in the country due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As of May 31, the curfew on all areas of the Kingdom will be eased, except Makkah.

Movement in cities and within the regions of the country will again be permitted, media sources said.

The easing will mean the Kingdom’s 24-hour lockdown is relaxed with a curfew from 3 p.m to 6 a.m until Sunday, after which the hours will change to 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.

On June 21, all curfews in the Kingdom will be lifted and prayers at Makkah’s mosque will be permitted.

Before then, social distancing guidelines must continue to be adhered to and gatherings of more than 50 people will continue to be banned.

Authorities have also allowed the attendance at ministries, government agencies and private sector companies, and the return of their office activities.

Some economic and commercial activities will also be allowed to take place including those at wholesale and retail shops, as well as malls. However, all job sectors where social distancing rules are harder to achieve such as beauty salons, barbershops, sports and health clubs, recreational centers and cinemas will remain closed.

Umrah pilgrimage and international flights will continue to be suspended until further notice.

Earlier, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, the health minister, said: “The phases start gradually until we return to normalcy, with its new concept based on social distancing.”