Coronavirus: Competition laws relaxed to help supermarkets through shelf shortages

Measures have been put in place to relax the competition laws, allowing the big brands to cooperate by sharing stock, data and even staff members.

These competition laws will also allow retailers to close and resupply, should their in-store stocks fall too low.

Deputy political editor of The Times, Steven Swinford, explained what this meant to followers on Twitter.

He said: ‘Supermarkets will be able to pool stock, staff and vans after the Government announced that it is relaxing competition laws.

‘It will also mean that supermarkets will be able to close in some areas when they run short on stock and divert resources to rival stores.’

The move is something big retailers have been vocal about in the past couple of days.

It was an idea proposed last year too, as supermarkets prepared for a potential no-deal Brexit.

Following the news, shoppers have been reminded not to panic buy goods from stores.

Prime minister Boris Johnson said: ‘As I said before, we've got good supply chains farm to fork – there's no reason for the shops really to be empty.

‘Please be reasonable, please be reasonable in your shopping, be considerate and thoughtful for others as you do it.’

Richard Walker, managing director of Iceland, tweeted: ‘Lots of concern over availability of key items in shops due to Covid-19.

‘Please do not panic.

‘There are no supply shortages or stock issues from our side.’

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

Covid-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS