By PM to announce updates on pubs and haircuts
This week the Prime Minister is expected to set out the types of businesses which will be allowed to reopen from July 4.
Downing Street have confirmed that there will be changes to the current coronavirus lockdown rules.
On Friday, the UK’s chief medical officers agreed to downgrade the Covid-19 alert level from four to three after a “steady” and continuing decrease in coronavirus cases.
Non-essential shops were allowed to reopen on June 15.
It is thought that this week’s updates will include a go-ahead for some pubs and hairdressers to reopen from July 4.
But, there will likely be dramatic changes to the way that these businesses are expected to function.
Hairdressers have already been instructed to keep small talk to a minimum, and it is thought that initially, permission to reopen will be granted primarily to pubs with outdoor seating spaces.
Following a recent review, alterations may also be made to the two-metre social distancing rule.
The hospitality sector, backed by a number of MPs, has called for the two-metre rule to be scrapped, as it places severe restrictions on their ability to open and function.
At present, the World Health Organisation recommend that people distance themselves from one another by one-metre.
Speaking yesterday, a spokesperson for Downing Street said:
“The reason we are able to move forward this week is because the vast majority of people have taken steps to contain the virus.
“The more we open up, the more important it is that everyone follows the social distancing rules.
“We will not hesitate to put the handbrake on to stop the virus running out of control.”
As has been the case with the easing of restrictions in the past, it is expected that the Prime Minister will also issue a reminder that measures will be reversed if people fail to adhere to the rules or the virus threatens to spiral out of control.
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