Richard Madeley has called UK government plans to keep over 70s indoors for 12 weeks during the lockdown 'ludicrous'.
The veteran TV presenter, 63, made the statement after he revealed that his wife Judy Finnigan, 71, had received a letter from the Health Secretary that instructed her to stay home.
The television host slammed the government for its 'profoundly unfair' treatment of over-70s while other at-risk groups appear to have been ignored.
“Because I am 63 that would mean Judy and I couldn’t go out together. It’s ludicrous," he told The Sun.
“But hold on, what about all the other people with underlying health issues? Someone who is 30 years old with kidney problems or asthma?
“And obviously we don’t know why yet, but what about the BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) community, where Covid-19 appears to be more prevalent?
“What do you say there? People of colour, they’re at higher risk, so they have to stay home too?"
Richard felt that the regulations were 'unfair' and argued that it could tear couples apart.
He also raised issues about other at-risk groups such as asthma sufferers.
He added: "I think it’s profoundly unfair. You can’t just target one at-risk group. If you do that then you have to target all of the at-risk groups, which would be almost half the population."
Richard also questioned how the government could possibly enforce the guideline should the lockdown be lifted for younger generations.
He went on: “Something like this, for those with an age gap or whatever, could tear couples apart.
The former This Morning host is currently holed up at his Hamstead Heath home with his doting wife Judy.
The couple have reportedly been keeping healthy and Richard also enjoys a daily walk.
Richard's concerns about the lockdown instructions came shortly after the couple's announced their triumphant return to television.
The television couple - who have starred alongside each other for over 30 years - have agreed to screens this week with their new TV show Richard and Judy: Keep Reading & Carry On.
It is the first time in 12 years that the presenters are returning to Channel 4.
During the series, which is filmed in their home, Richard and Judy will welcome a host of authors and guests to discuss their best reads and tips for the lockdown.
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