UK to ramp up COVID-19 testing amid criticism

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to "massively increase testing" for coronavirus, responding to widespread criticism of the government's limited screening efforts.

Johnson, who is currently self-isolating after testing positive for the virus, stated that increased testing is crucial to overcoming the pandemic.

Criticism intensified after it was revealed that only 2,000 out of 500,000 National Health Service (NHS) staff had been tested, with reports of testing centers being inaccessible or underutilized.

The UK has reported a total of 2,352 deaths from COVID-19, including two medical professionals, and the daily testing rate is significantly lower than in countries like Germany.

Newspapers have described the government's testing plans as "chaotic" and a "shambles" amidst the growing public backlash.

Experts suggest a decentralized approach, allowing smaller laboratories to conduct tests, likening the situation to the "Dunkirk spirit."

Public Health England defended its central role in testing, emphasizing that they developed and implemented the initial tests.

The UK is currently under lockdown, with businesses closed and citizens urged to stay home to curb the spread of the virus.

The government has pledged significant financial support for those affected by the lockdown, but questions are being raised about the speed of aid distribution.

In response to the economic impact, British Airways is expected to suspend 36,000 staff members.