Large fines for Britons who violate self-isolation rules

(Patria) – Britons will be fined heavily if they do not self-isolate in case of a positive test result for Covid-19.

The lowest fine will be 1,000 British pounds (1,090 euros), and it could rise to 10,000 pounds (10,909 euros) for those who repeatedly break the law or prevent others from self-isolating – for example, business owners who prevent staff from self-isolating by threatening them with dismissal.

"Anyone who ignores the rules will face significant penalties. We must do everything we can to get the spread of this virus under control, to protect the most vulnerable people from infection, and to protect our NHS and save lives," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a statement.

The government also announced that citizens who are unable to work from home during self-isolation and are therefore losing income will receive assistance amounting to 500 pounds.

The self-isolation rule currently in effect in the UK requires anyone with Covid-19 symptoms or a positive test result to self-isolate for at least 10 days, along with their household members.

In August, only 20% of citizens fully complied with the self-isolation rule, reported SAGE, the government's scientific advisory group.

In neighboring France, the number of self-isolation days has been reduced to encourage citizens to self-isolate.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has already announced measures to limit gatherings across the country, hoping that Britons will learn from the examples of Spain and France, which are recording more than 10,000 cases daily.

Great Britain recorded 4,422 new infections on Saturday alone, a significant increase compared to three-digit numbers in July, and represents the highest daily average recorded since the end of May.