Increasing calls to shut down schools to stop virus spread

The government is facing increasing calls to close schools to slow the spreading of the coronavirus.

328,751 people have signed a petition, started by Sami Attout, which urges Boris Johnson to shut down schools and colleges 'in the coming weeks of as soon as possible'.

Today Prime Minister Boris Johnson will wither to step up coronavirus prevention measures.

The Department for Education however has said that schools would remain open, unless advised otherwise.

A Government spokesperson said today: 'As the Chief Medical Officer has said, the impact of closing schools on both children's education and on the workforce will be substantial, but the benefit to public health may not be.

'Decisions on future advice to schools will be taken based on the latest and best scientific evidence, which at this stage suggests children are a lower risk group.

'The advice from Public Health England continues to be for schools to remain open, unless advised otherwise.'

The petition states: 'We would like the government to at least consider closing schools/colleges down in the coming weeks or as soon as possible, in addition to taking necessary actions to prevent further spread.

'We would like the Government or Parliament to enforce this action due to the growing fear among parents and students that attend school.'