New announcement on social distancing rules which will affect Mid Sussex
From Monday 14th September, social gatherings of more than six people will be illegal in England, but it will not apply to workplaces, schools, religious settings or Covid-secure weddings, funerals and organised team sports. The latest figures have shown an increase in the number of coronavirus cases and the Government has chosen to act now to stop the virus from spreading and protect the NHS.
The Government want to simplify the rules to ensure the message can get across clearly and ensure everyone is playing their part in preventing the spread of the virus, as this new measure will ban larger groups meeting anywhere socially indoors or outdoors, which have been a crucial factor in the recent, concerning rise in cases.
This will be enforced through a £100 fine if people fail to comply and will double following each offence - up to a maximum of £3,200.
At present, the guidance says two households of any size can meet indoors or outdoors, or up to six people from different households outdoors. This limit will now be enforceable in law, handing police new powers to prevent gatherings above the latest limit.
The Prime Minister confirmed this during his press conference on Wednesday, emphasising how this new, lower limit will make it easier for everyone to clearly understand what is expected and for the police to be able to clearly identify and disperse illegal gatherings. It is vital everyone abides by these latest rules and continues to wash their hands regularly, cover your face where required, socially distance from others and get a test if you have symptoms.
The link to the Prime Minister’s full statement is as follows: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/pm-press-conference-statement-9-…