From the beginning of this #COVIDー19 crisis, the idea that british people would not adhere to lockdown rules if applied too early was the start of the confusion caused by government but what is extraordinary is the idea that the UK is any different to anywhere else in Europe. 1

It’s not been easy for citizens of nations like Spain and Italy to have undergone the sacrifices they have made these last 3 months. The cultures are gregarious, outgoing, noisy, loving and warm. 2

Southern Europeans love crowds and enjoy brushing shoulders with strangers and friends alike in big events and fiestas. Yet somehow their governments managed to get the broad support of the people to put those instincts aside and sacrifice their closeness for the greater good. 3

In Spain police powers and hefty fines were imposed to support lockdown aims yes but actually, without the tacit consent of the majority of the public, the state of emergency would not have been successful in flattening the #COVIDー19 curve. 4

Many in Southern Europe live in small city apartments with little or no outside space and children were not allowed out for weeks, yet the lockdown has been successful and the countries have managed to grapple with the curve. 5

Now we are seeing our restrictions eased here but people are still on the whole wary and still broadly trusting of the Spanish government and its strategy to move slowly. The numbers are good but nobody wants to go backwards to a severe lockdown again. 6

Looking at the UK through the prism of my experience in Spain, there has been little clarity or strength from the government right from the start and what I see is no trust in the government. 7

The one message which was strong and finally used and was cutting through - #StayHomeSaveLives - has now been totally undermined and became Stay Home unless you are #DominicCummings 8

Which stats are published elsewhere have been pretty consistent. The Johnson/Cummings government have been all over the place with which numbers they publish - more confusion. Is this to avoid being held to account or simple incompetence. 9

This British government is empty - a government of hollow words, meaningless slogans and zero respect. No respect for the people of other countries who they seem to think are somehow different and have made sacrifices to flatten the curve lightly or easily. 10

They certainly have no respect for the British public as transparency and truth and integrity have been shredded and burned at the altar of Cummings/Johnson. Why do they not treat the British public like adults and tell the truth. /end

#notmovingontilldomhasgone