The Prime Minister has set out the latest developments in the battle against the pandemic
The Government has introduced a new system of “Local Covid Alert Levels” in England, more commonly known as the three-tier system.
The approach will see different parts of the country placed in different categories dependent on rates of infection, with areas in the highest level facing the toughest restrictions.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a statement in the House of Commons seeking to clarify the myriad of rules and regulations introduced since infections started to climb once again.
Medium level/tier one
The medium level will cover most of the country and will consist of the current national measures. This means those in a tier one area must abide by the “Rule of Six” and the closure of hospitality venues at 10pm.
High level/tier two
This level reflects many areas currently under local restrictions. In such areas people will be prevented from mixing with other households indoors. Most areas already subject to local restrictions will move into high alert level.
The “Rule of Six” will continue to apply outdoors and in private gardens.
Very high level/tier three
This level will apply in areas where transmission rates are causing the biggest concern.
The Government will set a “baseline” of measures which need to be in place for this tier such as prohibiting social mixing indoors, in private gardens and closing pubs and bars unless they can operate as a restaurant.
People will be advised against travelling in and out of these areas.
The Prime Minister said agreement has been reached with leaders in Merseyside, explaining it will be in the “very high alert” level from Wednesday – with gyms, leisure centres, betting shops, adult gaming centres and casinos also closing.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own devolved governments and separate health systems. Pubs across central Scotland have closed for just over two weeks as part of circuit-breaker measures aimed at reducing close-contact transmission.
The Prime Minister has previously said there is “no doubt” that the UK faces arduous months ahead as it grapples with a second wave of coronavirus cases but is keen to avoid a nationwide lockdown.
What are the general restrictions?
On September 23, the Prime Minister told the country that new, tighter, rules had been put in place around the wearing of face masks, pub opening hours and weddings, while people who are able, have been encouraged to work from home.
But on September 30 he said he was confident Britain would get through the latest outbreak of the coronavirus.
“I am absolutely confident that with better treatments and with the prospect of a vaccine we will get through this,” he told a No 10 news conference.
“Let’s follow the rules, wash our hands, cover our faces, observe social distancing, download the app, and together we will fight back against this virus, protect the NHS and save more lives.”
The restrictions will be in place for the next six months unless there is “palpable progress”, the Prime Minister said.
Here are the key points from the Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons last month:
Office workers who are able to work from home should do so.
Pubs, bars and restaurants in England must close by 10pm each night.
The hospitality sector is now restricted to table service.
Face coverings must be worn in taxis and private hire vehicles, and by retail staff at work.
Customers in indoor hospitality must also wear face coverings except when seated at a table to eat or drink.
The exemptions to the rule of six will be reduced, banning indoor team sport – such as indoor five-a-side football matches – while the planned phased return of spectators to sports venues was cancelled.
Wedding ceremonies and receptions are capped at 15 people.- Telegraph
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