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Prime Minister Boris Johnson is said to be considering a return to Step Two restrictions on 27 December as coronavirus cases continue to surge, according to the Mirror.
Earlier this afternoon, the outlet’s Political Editor Pippa Crerar tweeted: “Hearing that Boris Johnson is considering going back to step 2 restrictions from Dec 27 - so POST Christmas - for a month to help curb infections. Big caveat is that Govt scientists want him to act now - while some in Cabinet worried about further restrictions even later.”
The restrictions were originally part of the government’s ‘roadmap’ out of lockdown, which was published in February this year.
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There are various measures that come under Step Two measures, including changes within the hospitality sector – with pubs and restaurants only allowed to open for outdoor service.
More generally, people would also not be allowed to socialise indoors unless with people from their household or support bubble, and must instead meet outside (including gardens) in groups of six people or two households.
While schools would remain open, people are encouraged to work from home if possible – as the current advice remains.
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Non-essential shops can also stay open, along with businesses like hairdressers, beauty salons and gyms.
The original Step Two guidelines also states funerals could continue with up to 30 people, while weddings, outdoor receptions and ‘commemorative events such as wakes’ can take place with up to 15 people.
It is believed these restrictions would be in place for around a month, but this is dependant on whether or not cases continue to rise.
When they were originally published in February, the Step Two guidelines said: "Step 2 [...] will see the opening of non-essential retail; personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons; and public buildings, including libraries and community centres. Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms will also reopen (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups); as will most outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues, zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas. Self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen
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"Hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors at Step 2 and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’). Wider social contact rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households.
"While funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners, the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15."
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: UK News