Lockdown measures across England will from Wednesday be governed by three “Covid Alert Levels” under plans set out by the Prime Minister.
Boris Johnson said the new tiers would “simplify and standardise our local rules” while seeking to suppress Covid-19’s spread.
– Medium:
The “rule of six” preventing most gatherings of more than six people indoors or outdoors, the 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants and other existing national measures will continue to apply.
The Prime Minister said this will cover most of the nation at the moment.
– High:
All mixing between households and support bubbles will be prohibited indoors.
The PM said “most areas” already subject to local restrictions will be in this level but so will Nottinghamshire, East and West Cheshire and a “small area” of High Peak due to rising infection rates.
– Very high:
Pubs and bars will be forced to close unless they can function as restaurants serving “substantial” meals. Alcohol could be served as part of those meals.
People will be advised not to travel in and out of the areas and social mixing indoors and in private gardens will be banned at the minimum.
Groups of up to six people could still be permitted to meet outside in public spaces.
But additional restrictions will be imposed based on discussions with local leaders, including those that could cover the hospitality, leisure, entertainment and personal care sectors.
Schools, shops and universities will remain open.
Mr Johnson said he was continuing to seek agreement with other leaders in the North West, North East and Yorkshire and Humber.
