South Shields families react after Prime Minister says they will 'lose loved ones before their time' at coronavirus press conference

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said families would continue to "lose loved ones before their time" as the coronavirus outbreak worsens in the UK.
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At the same press conference, on Thursday, March 12, Mr Johnson declared that the UK would move from the ‘contain’ phase to the ‘delay’ phase – but schools and big public gatherings would remain open until further notice.

South Shields families reacted to the PM’s statement on Facebook – with many coming out in support of what he said.

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Some expressed concern about the UK not following the Republic of Ireland’s decision to close schools.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives at a news conference inside 10 Downing Street. Picture: PA.Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives at a news conference inside 10 Downing Street. Picture: PA.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives at a news conference inside 10 Downing Street. Picture: PA.

Here is what you had to say on the Shields Gazette Facebook page:

Caroline Harrison: “I think they delivered the facts and a strategy. The medical representatives were there. It was a good approach delivered as well as could be. It wasn’t heartless and I don’t think anyone else could have done better.”

Ken Reay: “We (wife and I) are elderly, with underlying health conditions. We are parents and grandparents. Nobody lives forever. The best thing to do is to stop the panic and hysteria, and act sensibly.”

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Bill Walton: “I’ve got total trust in the Government and their scientific advisors.”

Craig Lister: “It could have been worded way better. All that's going to do is cause fear and panic. It makes sense not to close schools. Kids won't want to stay inside. They will wish to play out with their mates.”

Lisa Wightman: “Boris could maybe have phrased some things better, but if he'd said there would be no more deaths he'd be lying.”

Sue Curtis: “He should have given parents who are terrified of this virus, the option to home school for a few weeks until the peak comes.”

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Ian Pennington: “I think they’re too slow on the job, too late now to do anything. They are not clamping down enough. They should restrict people gathering and close schools.”

Chelsie Boyack: “I’m glad they aren’t closing schools if they don’t need to.”