UK government imposes three-week national lockdown to contain coronavirus

The United Kingdom went into full lockdown Monday as the British government attempted to slow the spread of the coronavirus that has hit the several countries across the globe.

The lockdown, which will be reassessed in three weeks, will close all businesses deemed nonessential, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.

The PM said the drastic measure was needed because people were continuing to ignore the official advice to stay at home and not congregate in crowds.

Under the measures, people will only be able to leave their homes to shop for "basic necessities, as infrequently as possible", Johnson said in a TV address to the nation from 10 Downing Street.

The only other occasions when someone can leave their home will be for "medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person", the PM said, or to travel to and from work "where this is absolutely necessary".