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Sex Is Still Illegal For Couples Who Don't Live Together In Tiers 2 And 3

Sex Is Still Illegal For Couples Who Don't Live Together In Tiers 2 And 3

Matt Hancock confirmed the news

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

Couples who don't live together will still be banned from having sex if they live in a Tier 2 or Tier 3 area.

As the country prepares to come out of the second national lockdown, a new version of the tier system will be introduced on Thursday 3 December.

The only places that will allow people to meet indoors are those in Tier 1, which are Cornwall, Scilly Isles and the Isle of Wight.

Asking the health secretary about the rules, Elle, from Southampton asked: "My boyfriend and I are in a long term relationship but live in separate households, so are unsure what rules apply to us.

"Can we see each other indoors or are we only permitted to see each other outdoors, despite being in an established relationship?"

PA

He added: "For everybody watching if you're in a specific situation, then the best thing to do is to go and look precisely at the rules.

"Now of course I understand the impact on people who are in a long-term relationship and we have made specific provision.

"But the general rule for those who are in Tier 2 is that the rule of six applies outdoors, including for instance in a private garden, but indoors you should only be mixing with people who are in your own household."

He then directed Elle to the government's official website to confirm exactly what is allowed in each tier.

Previously, the UK government had introduced the 'Rule of Six' which allowed those in 'established relationships' to sleep with one another, however, there was no such provision in the new set of measures.

PA

When the second lockdown was brought in, it was stated: "From 5 November, you must not meet socially indoors with family or friends unless they are part of your household, meaning the people you live with, or your support bubble.

"This includes anyone you are in an established relationship with but do not live with - unless they are in your support bubble. Couples that do not live together and are not in a support bubble with each other can continue to see each other outdoors."

However - there might be hope for an end to your dry spell when the five-day exemption comes into place. Between 23 and 27 December, three households will be able to meet indoors but must stick with that same 'Christmas bubble'.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, Coronavirus