Ministers to Get Emergency Powers in New Coronavirus Bill
The government is rushing emergency powers through Parliament this week to tackle the coronavirus outbreak head-on. Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed these tough measures will let ministers act fast and decisively as the virus spreads.
Temporary Powers to Fight COVID-19
The new coronavirus bill will grant ministers special powers that are temporary and only used when absolutely necessary. These laws are designed to protect public health while supporting the NHS and social care under intense pressure.
The key aims of the bill cover:
- Containing and slowing the virus
- Easing red tape and regulations
- Boosting NHS and social care staff flexibility
- Managing deaths respectfully
- Supporting the public to follow health guidance
Backing NHS Staff and Boosting Capacity
The bill will help bring retired NHS workers and social care staff back to the frontline without pension penalties. NHS workers will also get state-backed insurance when working outside their normal roles.
Rules on paperwork will be slashed to speed up hospital discharges, freeing beds for critical patients. Volunteers aiding health services get sick leave protection and a fixed compensation to cover lost wages, helping millions pitch in.
Councils will gain powers to prioritise those with the greatest care needs, making the best use of adult social care staff at a crucial time.
New Enforcement and Support Measures
- Police and immigration officers can enforce public health rules, including detaining those needing isolation
- Statutory sick pay starts from day one for people self-isolating without symptoms
- Small businesses can reclaim sick pay costs from HMRC
- Court cases may move to phone or video hearings to avoid virus spread
- Border Force can temporarily suspend operations at airports or transport hubs to maintain security
Government Says: We’re Ready for Anything
Matt Hancock said: “We are doing everything we can to protect lives and support the NHS, guided by the best scientists and clinicians in the world. These measures will only be used when absolutely necessary and at the right time to save lives.”
He added: “This is a national effort. Everyone must work together—from businesses looking after employees to people washing their hands thoroughly.” Hancock also praised NHS and social care staff for their tireless work during “this unprecedented period.”
England’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty said: “Our response is driven by scientific evidence. These powers will support frontline workers, protect the public and delay the peak of the virus to summer when the NHS faces less pressure.”
The message is clear: stay vigilant, avoid non-essential travel, and keep washing your hands to help beat COVID-19.
