A poll, specially commissioned by Channel 4 and ITN Productions from Savanta ComRes has provided the most comprehensive view so far of the response to the pandemic.

The results form part of Channel 4’s Live: Divided Britain: The Lockdown Debate which transmits tonight (Sunday, 18th October at 18.00). Chaired by Channel 4 News’ Krishnan Guru-Murthy, the hour-long programme is the first live dedicated debate on the Covid-19 pandemic, and will see politicians, business owners, doctors and scientists discuss the critical issues facing the UK.

The poll, conducted by Savanta ComRes reveals:

61% of people across the UK said they would support a full so-called circuit break lockdown to slow the spread of the virus and 60% of people in England support a circuit break in England. Perhaps surprisingly, people in the South West were most in favour of a circuit break (68%). The data also points to Northern Ireland 70% and Wales 67% being similarly supportive.

Nearly half (48%) said they believed the restrictions are too relaxed.

Close to a quarter of people said they were likely to break the current COVID-19 restrictions in their local area.

60% felt that health risks for themselves and family members were their biggest concern, ahead of the 30% that felt financial risks were their biggest concern.

46% believe that financial support should be increased to help save jobs and businesses.

When asked about the government’s performance review 48% said they thought they were handling it badly.

Savanta ComRes interviewed 2,343 UK adults aged 18+ online between 14th and 15th October 2020. Data were weighted to be demographically representative of UK adults 18+ by age, gender, region, and other socio-economic characteristics including social grade. Savanta ComRes is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.

For full results and breakdown click below