'Tougher lockdown measures including park closures possible' if lockdown defied

The Government is reportedly considering harsher lockdown measures if people flout social distancing rules amid the warm weather this weekend.

Parks could close if Brits decide to sunbathe in public spaces as temperatures reach almost 20C over the next couple of days, a source told a newspaper.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock have already urged people to resist breaking the rules to enjoy the sunshine.

On Sunday, parts of London are expected to reach highs of 19C, while Cambridge will see 18C.

However, there is said to be a Cabinet dispute over introducing further restrictions, with one minister drawing the line at the current ‘draconian’ measures.

Mr Johnson said he understood why people would be tempted to ‘get out’ this weekend, however he begged them to obey the law.

The Health Secretary struck a harsher tone when he said ‘people will die’ if Brits ‘relax’ their discipline in following the rules.

Tougher Government restrictions could be introduced if people flout the rules, with one source telling the Daily Telegraph: “Closure of public spaces is certainly an option.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel added: “If you are heading outside to exercise this weekend, you should only go out once a day, not travel unnecessarily, and use the open spaces near your home where you can.

“We have given the police and other relevant authorities the powers to enforce the measures if necessary, including through fines.”

However, one Government minister said Tories were divided about tightening the lockdown.

They added that many were starting to believe the measures had ‘gone far enough’ and destroy businesses if they remain in place for more than two months.

Earlier today, the Prime Minister said he feared households ‘going stir crazy’ might be ‘tempted’ outside as the sun shines and mercury rises.

In a video shot from his Covid-19 self-isolation, the groggy Tory begged: “There may be just a temptation to get out there, hang out and start to break the regulations. I just urge you not to do that. Please, please, stick with the guidance now.”

Ministers are preparing to lock down Britain for a total of three months before normal life can resume, government sources have revealed.

The stringent measures are expected to be kept in place until June 14 – raising fears over more catastrophic job losses across multiple industries, with the threat of businesses collapsing around an already battered economy.