Thank you for contacting me about the new measures to restrict the further spread of coronavirus.
The Government has been clear throughout that, should the number of cases escalate, they would not hesitate to take whatever measures are necessary to stop the spread and save lives. While relaxations of restrictions over recent months have been welcome, sadly, rates are rising.
That is why the Government, on the advice of scientific and medical experts, has acted. The new measures are simple: you may socialise in groups no larger than six, indoors or outdoors, unless everyone is from the same household or support bubble. Groups of six allow people to socialise with friends and family without encouraging large groups of multiple households, where there is a risk that somebody suffering with coronavirus asymptomatically could pass the virus on to several different households, who could then pass the virus further.
While these measures impact our way of life, they are necessary to keep control of the virus.
COVID secure venues like places of worship, gyms, restaurants and hospitality venues can still hold more than 6 people in total. Within those venues however, there must not be individual groups larger than 6, and groups must not mix socially or form larger groups.
It is vitally important that people remember to wash their hands, to cover their faces in enclosed spaces, and to keep plenty of space between themselves and others.
Education and work settings are unaffected. COVID secure weddings and funerals can still go ahead, up to a limit of 30 people, and organised sport will still be able to proceed. More information on exemptions can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-meeting-with-others-safely-social-distancing/coronavirus-covid-19-meeting-with-others-safely-social-distancing
I strongly urge you to comply with the law and to restrict social contact as far as possible. We must do all we can to reduce the spread of coronavirus, and ultimately protect those that are most vulnerable in society.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me
Sally-Ann Hart MP