Lockdown rules 'could be tightened' if people flout social distancing rules, warns First Minister

The First Minister of Wales has said he will not be bound by Westminster over when to end lockdown measures as he warned that restrictions could get worse if people flout social distancing rules.

Mark Drakeford said he will only relax social distancing measures "when the evidence shows it is safe" and not be "looking over our shoulders at what others are doing".

He also warned that social restrictions could be "tightened", including people not being allowed outside to exercise, if there is "large-scale flouting" of the guidelines.

Speaking at his daily news conference, the First Minister praised the majority of the public for adhering to the "enormous burden" of staying inside but added that fines could be increased if that changes, urging people to avoid going outside during the warm Easter bank holiday weekend.

• Police granted new powers to arrest people ignoring lockdown rules in Wales

• Welsh Government and NHS issue joint warning to stay home over Easter

• Keen walker uses daily exercise to spell out giant 'stay home' message at local park

Mr Drakeford announced earlier this week that restrictions would be extended next week ahead of a planned three-week review.

• Coronavirus deaths in Wales rise by 29 bringing total to 315

• 'Do not use' signs on outdoor gym torn down by park users ignoring lockdown rules

Mr Drakeford said a "great deal of work" is going in to the eventual relaxation of the lockdown but added that any decision on ending it would not be based on similar actions in England.

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