On Thursday night, the UK Government announced the tightening of lockdown measures for millions of people living in Northern England due to a rise in Coronavirus cases.
Many have criticised the Government’s communication strategy for announcing the measures, with many left confused about who they impact and how.
Here’s a look at some of the key points – got a question? Tweet us @speakerpolitics.
Where do the new measures impact?
The new measures apply to the following areas in Northern England;
- All parts of Greater Manchester – City of Manchester, Trafford, Stockport, Oldham, Bury, Wigan, Bolton, Tameside, Rochdale, Salford
- Pendle
- Hyndburn
- Burnley
- Rossendale
- Blackburn with Darwen
- Bradford
- Calderdale
- Kirklees
What are the new measures?
Under the new measures, people in these areas are banned from mixing with other households outside of their support bubble in private homes and gardens or other indoor venues.
Hospitality and retail outlets can remain open, but people from separate households should not socialise inside them.
In Blackburn with Darwen and Bradford, indoor gyms, indoor fitness and dance studios, indoor sports courts and indoor swimming pools must remain closed. They can remain open in other areas.
Can I meet people outdoors?
You can still meet people that you don’t live with, subject to social distancing, in public outdoor areas. You can’t meet people you don’t live with in a private garden.
For example, you can meet your friend (subject to social distancing) in a local park or other outdoor space, you just can’t invite them home for dinner in your house or garden. You also shouldn’t eat dinner or socialise with them in any other indoor venue.
Are there restrictions on travel?
You can still travel freely in and out of lockdown areas. You should try to avoid travelling with someone from outside of your household or support bubble in these areas though.
You can still take holidays and work in the area.
How about events?
Weddings and funerals can still take place but are limited to no more than 30 people.
Government guidelines advise that people wishing to celebrate Eid should not host or visit friends and family in each other’s homes or gardens (doing so is now illegal in the impacted areas). Places of worship can be attended subject to COVID-Secure guidelines being met and six people may still meet outdoors (except in private gardens).
