Prime Minister’s statement on the easement of the lockdown

The Prime Minister today (23 June) provided an update on the easement of the lockdown in England.

The two-metre social distancing rule will change from the 04 July. The public will be advised to keep two metres apart where possible, but where it is not, people will be advised to keep a social distance of at least one metre apart, while taking mitigations to reduce the risk of transmission.

From 04 July, two households of any size will be able to meet in any setting, inside or out. Pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will also be able to reopen, providing they adhere to COVID Secure guidelines.

The government will ask businesses to help NHS Test and Trace respond to any local outbreaks by collecting contact details from customers.

From 04 July, provided that no more than two households stay together, people will be free to stay overnight in self-contained accommodation, including hotels and bed & breakfasts, as well as campsites, as long as shared facilities are kept clean.

Most leisure facilities and tourist attractions will be allowed to reopen if they can do so safely, including outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks and arcades as well as libraries, social clubs and community centres.

“Close proximity” venues such as nightclubs, soft-play areas, indoor gyms, swimming pools, bowling alleys, water parks and spas will remain closed for now.

The government will also work with the arts industry on specific guidance to enable choirs, orchestras and theatres to resume live performances as soon as possible.

Places of worship will be also be able to reopen for prayer and services, including weddings with a maximum of 30 people, all subject to social distancing.