England to lift remaining virus restrictions by July 19
The lifting of social distancing measures “brings huge relief for hospitality venues,” UKHospitality said.
England’s remaining lockdown restrictions will be lifted in less a week despite a rise in COVID-19 cases, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed Monday.
This means that restrictions on social gatherings will be removed and social distancing measures will be discarded. Nightclubs, for example, can reopen for the first time since March last year, and there will no longer be limits on people attending concerts, theaters, weddings or sports events.
Whilst risks of the pandemic remain, Johnson said legal restrictions will be replaced by a recommendation that people wear masks in crowded places and on public transport.
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s Step 4 announcement, UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls issued the following statement on Monday: “Confirmation that social distancing measures will be lifted next Monday brings huge relief for hospitality venues hoping to finally head back towards normal trading in England. A week from now, for the first time in 16 months they will be able to move towards profitability, which is vital for the future of a sector beset by Covid-related debts.”
“For profitability to be reached as soon as possible, it’s vital that businesses are able to reach their own solutions, to suit their settings, satisfy their risk assessments and optimise implementation costs while ensuring safety. The voluntary nature of the Government guidance should ensure that this is achievable,” she added.
