Coronavirus: Everything you need to know about new rules

From Monday you'll only be allowed to meet in groups of six.

Author: Chris MaskeryPublished 9th Sep 2020
Last updated 23rd May 2022

From Monday gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England, following a sharp rise in coronavirus cases.

The new, tougher, rules have cut the number allowed on groups from 30 to just six with fines of over £3,000 for people who break the rules.

Boris Johnson will announce the changes in the law in a press conference today but here's what we know so far...

Where do the new rules apply?

The new rules are going to apply to homes, parks, pubs and restaurants in England but some places and events will be exempt.

What does this mean for weddings and funerals?

The new rules apply to gatherings indoors and outdoors, but both weddings and funerals are exempt from the new rules.

Weddings and civil partnerships will still have to comply with the current rules which means a maximum of 30 people can attend as long as they are socially distanced.

That number includes the couple, the witnesses, the guests and even the photographer but does not include staff employed by the venue such as waiters.

Can I still go into work and school?

Gatherings of more than six people are still allowed if the gathering is for work or education purposes.

Mr Hancock said the reason work and education were exempt was because “we need to get through this coronavirus with the minimal impact''.

Is visiting other people’s houses OK?

Yes, Boris says he wants to make the rules more simple so from Monday, in England, you can meet up to six people from ANY household.

That replaces the current rule that groups could only be formed between two households or support bubbles.

Can I play sports?

Organised team sports carried out in a coronavirus secure way are exempt.

Can I be fined for breaking the new rules?

Yes, the new law comes into force on Monday and can be enforced by Police.

For a first offence you'll face a £100 fine, but it will double every time you repeat the offence, up to a maximum of £3,200.

What Boris will say

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will announce the new rules at a press conference at Downing Street

"We need to act now to stop the virus spreading,"

"So we are simplifying and strengthening the rules on social contact, making them easier to understand and for the police to enforce," the PM will announce.

"It is absolutely critical that people now abide by these rules and remember the basics - washing your hands, covering your face, keeping space from others, and getting a test if you have symptoms."

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