Britain's three million Muslims were praised tonight for following strict social distancing guidelines during the month of Ramadan.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock hailed Muslims for not getting together at sunset to break their daily fast, in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Traditionally, Muslims celebrate the end of fasting each evening with friends and family in a meal called Iftar.
But elders told them not to gather for the nightly meals – fearing it would fuel the transmission of coronavirus.
Speaking at the Downing Street conference, Mr Hancock said: “Recent weeks have shown that there is something we can all do, and that's to follow the rules on social distancing.
“I am acutely aware of how difficult this has been, and especially as we enter Ramadan – a month that is so special for so many people.
“This Ramadan, many Muslims who serve their country in the NHS and in the Armed Forces, and in so many other ways, will not be sharing the joy of this month as they normally do.
“I want to say to all British Muslims, thank you for staying at home.
“I know how important the daily Iftar is, how important communal prayers are at night and how important the Eid festival is.
“Than you for making major changes to these vital parts of your practice.
“I want to say to you all, Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan), and thank you for your service and citizenship, and thank you for your sacrifice.”
