The Prime Minister announced that groups of up to six people can meet in outside spaces from today
Speaking at Thursday’s Coronavirus briefing, Boris Johnson announced that from Monday up to six people could meet together in groups outside as long as the social distancing rules are adhered to.
The Prime Minister said that this was a “long awaited and joyful moment,” and that it would mean friends and family could start to meet in groups again.
He explained that this new relaxation in the restrictions was due to the UK meeting the government’s five tests. However, this new measure is only in place for people in England, as Wales and Scotland have their own controls in place at the moment.
In the briefing, Mr Johnson did, however, say that meeting too many people in succession should be avoided to help “avoid the risk of transmission from lots of different families.”
This comes after the government’s test and trace system was put in place in England on the 28th of May.
This new easing of the lockdown means that meeting in gardens or outside spaces is allowed. Plus, it was added that barbeques are fine as long as strict hygiene measures and social distancing are in place. Staying over is not permitted, and the Prime Minister said that the country was not at that stage yet.
Kier Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, said they supported the gradual easing of the restrictions as long as it was safe to do so. He also said we need clear guidance from public health and we also need to see the scientific evidence actually published.” The labour leader also mentioned that a clear track and trace system needed to be present.
Reiterating the importance of social distancing and hand washing, Prof Chris Witty also spoke at the briefing. He said this was an ‘essential’ part of not spreading the virus. He added that
“If someone was to go into the loo because they had to do that, it’s absolutely critical that they wipe everything down, wash their hands all the way through.”
Although these new measures will mean that people can see loved ones and friends, the Prime Minister explained that the most vulnerable should continue to shield themselves. There was also mention that the government are looking into ways to make life easier if you are shielding, and they hope to publish more on it soon.
During the briefing, local outbreaks were also discussed, and Mr Johnson said there could be localised measures put in place to stop the spread of the virus. Anyone who is subject to local lockdowns if outbreaks occur and lose income due to the measures ‘will be helped’ according to the government.
Getting back to the new normal
This news comes just after the announcement that non-essential shops can open from 15th June. Also on Thursday, it was said that dental practices could also reopen from Monday if they have appropriate safety measures in place. Schools will also be opening their doors to some pupils from today despite concerns from teachers, unions, and parents.
