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UK Government Introduces £10,000 Fines For Those Who Test Positive For Coronavirus But Refuse To Self-Isolate

UK Government Introduces £10,000 Fines For Those Who Test Positive For Coronavirus But Refuse To Self-Isolate

The new measures come after an increase in cases.

Lucy Devine

Lucy Devine

Those in England who refuse to self isolate if they test positive for coronavirus, or have been in close contact with someone who has, could be fined up to £10,000.

The new measure will be introduced from 28th September, with fines beginning at £1,000 and rising to £10,000 for repeat offenders.

People will be fined if they don't isolate (
PA)

The new restrictions come after coronavirus cases, and deaths, across England continue to rise. On Saturday, 4,422 cases were reported with 27 deaths.

Meanwhile Scotland had 350 new cases, which is the highest since May, while Northern Ireland had 222 on Saturday and Wales reported 212.

The newly introduced measures also include a support payment of £500 for those on low incomes who need to self isolate, and fines for employers who try and penalise employees for isolating.

There will also be fines for employers who penalise employees for isolating (
PA)

The support payment will be made on top of statutory sick pay and any other benefits.

Speaking about the rules, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "So nobody underestimates just how important this is, new regulations will mean you are legally obliged to do so if you have the virus or have been asked to do so by NHS Test and Trace. People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines.

"We need to do all we can to control the spread of this virus, to prevent the most vulnerable people from becoming infected, and to protect the NHS and save lives."

Those who refuse to isolate after being in contact with someone who has tested positive could be fined(
PA)

To enforce the rules, it's believed that NHS Test and Trace staff could repeatedly call those who are supposed to be staying at home, while police could act if they receive complaints about people breaking the rules.

This could include tips received from neighbours.

It's believed the government has spent the weekend discussing possible proposals to avoid a second wave of the virus, with an announcement expected to be made by Boris Johnson at some point this week.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: News, Coronavirus