The country has done well in the containment of the coronavirus epidemic, the Government Spokesperson stressed on the public service television news channel M1 on Thursday evening.

Alexandra Szentkirályi highlighted that this is a joint achievement, owing to the fact that the government adopted all important decisions in good time and the people heeded the advice they were given.

At the same time, she drew attention to the fact that the threat of the epidemic had not yet passed entirely, and therefore a state of disease control preparedness would be maintained. As part of this, the Operational Group will continue to operate, and the Chief Medical Officer and the government will have powers to adopt the necessary measures, including maintaining the shopping hours reserved for the elderly and imposing a ban on events.

Regarding next year’s budget, she said it is an economy protection budget, but protecting families, supporting jobs and helping pensioners will continue to remain top priorities.

She added that the economy protection fund and the disease control fund are also important parts of the budget. Several actors, including local governments will have to contribute to these funds. She highlighted at the same time that in next year’s budget funds allocated to local governments will be 16 per cent higher than this year.

Ms. Szentkirályi also mentioned that between 3 and 7 June, it would be possible to hold Trianon commemorations. However, the Trianon memorial built with the government’s support will be inaugurated not on 4 June, but it is to be hoped on 20 August.

(Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister/MTI)