Boris Johnson’s policy on coronavirus is not wrong, it is simply incompetent

Editorial: The public’s confidence in the government is waning. New restrictions should be acted on immediately and rigorous testing should be a priority

Boris Johnson’s plans to impose new restrictions on northern England were leaked several days in advance (Getty)

The Independent finds itself in a similar awkward position to that of Keir Starmer, the leader of the opposition. We broadly support the government’s approach to trying to control coronavirus, but our view is that it has been managed appallingly badly. 

Mr Starmer was accused by the prime minister this week of criticising the government without having an alternative policy. But it is the job of the opposition, even if it agrees with the policy, to point out that it is being implemented in such a way as to undermine its effectiveness. 

The latest example of Boris Johnson’s uncertain touch was the leak yesterday of his decision to impose new restrictions in Merseyside and other parts of northern England – but not until the start of next week. This has infuriated local government leaders, who were not consulted, and risks encouraging irresponsible behaviour this weekend as people rush to pubs and restaurants before they are shut down.