New restrictions in England announced
Mr Johnson says they’re being brought in because “a stitch in time saves nine” and this is not a return to the full lockdown, so people are not simply being told to stay at home.
Office workers who can work from home, should do so, he says.
From Thursday, all pubs, bars and restaurants must operate a table service only – except for takeaways – and will be forced to close at 10pm.
“I’m sorry,” the PM says “but we must act”.
The need to wear face coverings will be extended to staff in retail, taxis and staff and customers in hospitality businesses.
COVID-secure guidelines will also become legal obligations, he says.
From Monday, a maximum of 15 people will be able to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions – but up to 30 can still attend a funeral.
The rule of six will also be extended to all adult indoor team sports.
And the partial reopening of stadiums for sports clubs hoped to happen on 1 October will not go ahead.
Mr Johnson says there’s “nothing more frustrating” for the rule-obeying majority than people breaking them.
The penalty for not wearing a mask or breaking the “rule of six” will double to Ā£200 and the option is also on the table to draw on military support where required to support the police.
Our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield except in local lockdown areas – but that will be kept under “constant review”, the PM says.
And he warns if today’s changes don’t bring the R number down below one – that’s how many people someone with coronavirus passes it on to – then Mr Johnson threatens he will “deploy greater firepower with significantly greater restrictions”.
