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The Commission has come under heavy criticism from the member states after it emerged eurocrats had been ordered to devise an EU-wide exit strategy for national coronavirus measures. The
Brussels-based executive was forced to row back on the policy after a series of leaks. Mrs von der Leyen wanted to force member states to sign up to a strict criteria when loosening
restrictions aimed at combating the global pandemic, according to an internal memo, seen by Express.co.uk. The draft states before governments can relax there rules the spread of the virus
must have “significantly decreased" and hospitals must have “sufficient capacity”. Capitals must also inform the Commission “in due time before they lift measures”, according to the
plan. If there is a second wave of coronavirus infections, the Commission suggests: "The exit must be continuously monitored and preparedness developed for returning to stricter
containment measures in case of strong resurgence." One EU source said the plan had “received a thorough rebuke by member states”. Mrs von der Leyen’s spokesman announced the plans had
been shelved after the negative response from capitals. He said: “It was felt after contacts with member states and upon further reflection that a bit more time was needed before the final
adoption should move forward. "The timing of the adoption of our recommendations to member states is indeed quite a tricky issue because indeed member states find themselves in
different stages of the fight against the pandemic." It comes as European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen begged member states to extend the travel ban until May 15. MUST
READ: BORIS JOHNSON TREATMENT: WHAT TREATMENT IS BORIS JOHNSON RECEIVING? EU migration chief Margaritis Schinas said: “All Member States have successfully implemented social distancing
measures to limit social interaction and slow down the spread of the virus. “The restriction on non-essential travel from third counties to the EU complements these measures at the EU's
external borders. “While we can see encouraging first results, prolonging the travel restriction is necessary to continue reducing the risks of the disease spreading further. We should not
yet let the door open whilst we are securing our house.” Ylva Johansson, the EU’s home affairs boss, added: “The current situation compels us to call for a prolongation of the restriction on
non-essential travel to the EU.”