Covid 19 - What you need to know - Prime Minister's Statement Tuesday 22nd Septembe 2020

In a statement to the House of Commons at lunchtime, the Prime Minister has announced a number of new restriction for England. 

The hope of the Government is that “a stitch in time will save nine”.

Despite previous statements to the contrary, those who are able to work from home are again being encouraged to do so where feasible/possible.

From Thursday pubs and restaurants will have to close at 10pm and shall be limited to table service only. The Prime Minister made it clear affected premises will and have to be closed by 10pm; ‘last orders’ will therefore have to be called earlier.

Takeaways may remain open after 10pm, only for home deliveries.

In addition further changes/restrictions were announced including:

• Covid secure guidance published by the Government will become a legal obligation and premises may face penalties for breaching the same. Additional powers will be given to Authorities to enforce the guidance including powers to close premises found to be in breach.
• Face mask will be mandated in all retail shops, taxis, and private hire vehicles.
• Face masks will also be required to be worn indoors by staff and customers in hospitality business, save for those sat at a table eating or drinking.
• From Monday (28th September) changes to the ‘rule of 6’ will also be imposed.
• Only 15 people may attend marriage ceremonies (reduced from 30), although the number remains at 30 for funerals.
• The ‘rule of 6’ will now apply to adult indoor team sport.

In relation to how long these new measures will apply the Prime Minister stated:

“Restrictions will remain in place for perhaps six months”

Plans for reopening of exhibition/business centres and sporting stadiums has been postponed, a staggered reopening had been planned from 1st October.

Those breaching requirements for self-isolation already face fine of up to £10,000. Similar fines will now be faced by businesses found to be in contravention of the rules.

The minimum fine in relation to a first breach of the rule 6 will double from £100 to £200.

The Prime Minister also stated that following conversation with the leader of the Devolved nations, that similar restrictions are expected to be announced around the Country shortly.

We are awaiting publication of the relevant regulations for review.  A transcript of the Prime Minister's full statement can be found here.