UK government accused of ignoring advice from science advisory group

The UK government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE group), recommended a short lockdown period three weeks ago, newly published documents revealed. 

The group warned that "a package of interventions will need to be adopted to prevent this exponential rise in cases" and "single interventions are unlikely to be able to reduce incidence."

The document was not revealed until October 12 (Monday), when British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced new local lockdown rules and set out a new three-tiered coronavirus strategy. 

Under the new rules, the country is divided into medium, high or very high risk categories.

"Very high" risk areas will see pubs, gyms, bars and casinos shut, with all but essential travel banned, said Johnson.