This archive report was first published on 6 May 2020.
As the UK grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has expressed his support for restarting the Premier League, citing its potential to lift the nation's morale.
On May 5, Raab stated that Premier League chiefs' plan to return to action in June would be a welcome boost to the country's spirits.
The Premier League has been suspended since March 13, with 92 matches remaining to be played, including the title, relegation, and Champions League qualification.
Some critics have questioned whether the Premier League is trying to return too soon, given that top-tier seasons in France and the Netherlands were abandoned.
However, Raab sees merit in the Premier League's 'Project Restart' and believes it would allow people to return to work and children to attend school safely, while also providing a much-needed distraction through sport.
During a government press conference, Raab emphasized that any return to sport in Britain would only be possible when it can be done safely.
He also revealed that the Culture Secretary has been working on a plan to get sport played behind closed doors when the country moves to the second phase of its recovery plan.
