Mobile networks send government ‘stay at home’ text message

For the first time ever all the UK’s mobile networks are sending out a government text message to their customers with details of the new shutdown measures.

Some customers have already received the text message, while others will get it later today.

The text reads:

GOV.UK CORONAVIRUS ALERT. New rules in force now: you must stay at home. More info and exemptions at gov.uk/coronavirus Stay at home. Protect the NHS. Save lives.

The UK government has had to work with the operators to get the message sent because an emergency alert system, trialled seven years ago, was never put into practice.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the lockdown in an address to the nation on Monday night.

He told members of the public they should only go outside for four reasons: work (if they can’t do so from home), shopping for food or medicines, exercise once a day, to help someone vulnerable, or for any medical need.