STOCKHOLM: Sweden’s government said Monday it will seek temporary extra powers to combat the coronavirus outbreak, drawing criticism from the opposition.
Sweden has not imposed extraordinary lockdown orders seen elsewhere in Europe to stem the spread of the virus, instead calling for citizens to take responsibility to follow social distancing guidelines. The government has also banned gatherings of more than 50 people and barred visits to nursing homes.
But on Monday it proposed a bill to give it additional powers -- that could see it limit public gatherings or close businesses -- without the approval of parliament. (AFP)
Sweden has not imposed extraordinary lockdown orders seen elsewhere in Europe to stem the spread of the virus, instead calling for citizens to take responsibility to follow social distancing guidelines. The government has also banned gatherings of more than 50 people and barred visits to nursing homes.
But on Monday it proposed a bill to give it additional powers -- that could see it limit public gatherings or close businesses -- without the approval of parliament. (AFP)