August lockdown easing postponed for at least a fortnight

During the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon (31 July), plans to reopen higher risk settings from 1 August will be postponed for at least a fortnight. 

That means that, until 15 August at the earliest:

– Casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and remaining close contact services must remain closed;

– Indoor performances will not resume;

– Pilots of larger crowds in sports venues and conference centres will not take place; and

– Wedding receptions of up to 30 people will not be permitted, but ceremonies can continue to take place, in line with COVID-Secure guidelines.

In addition, the government will extend the requirement to wear a face covering to other indoor settings such as museums, galleries, cinemas and places of worship. This will become enforceable in law from 8 August.

The national pause on shielding will continue as planned from tomorrow. At this stage, the government is not changing the rules on social contact nationally.

Full details of the PM’s statement can be found here: https://bit.ly/PM310720