Pubs in northern England could close under possible new Covid-19 restrictions

Pubs in parts of northern England could be closed as early as Monday as certain areas face the prospect of further coronavirus restrictions, according to reports.
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Two waves of restrictions have already been imposed in nine North East local authority areas, making it against the law for people from different households or support bubbles to meet at a private address, garden or any indoor public venue – with similar restrictions in place in the North West.

All entertainment and leisure facilities in the affected areas must also close between 10pm and 5am.

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There are reports on Thursday, October 8 that a third round of restrictions could be on the way for millions of people in northern England.

Ministers were said to be considering the new measures, which could come as early as Monday, according to media reports. Picture: PA Wire.Ministers were said to be considering the new measures, which could come as early as Monday, according to media reports. Picture: PA Wire.
Ministers were said to be considering the new measures, which could come as early as Monday, according to media reports. Picture: PA Wire.

According to media reports, ministers were said to be considering the new measures – which could come as early as Monday, October 12 – as infection rates continue to soar in cities including Newcastle, Manchester and Liverpool.

Downing Street and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) both declined to comment on the reports.

Tory backbenchers warned that MPs must be given a vote before any such measures are brought into force in line with assurances given last week by Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

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Mr Hancock appeared to signal there would be dark days ahead for the sector during a conference call with the Confederation of British Industry on Wednesday, October 7.

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Pubs in northern England could be closed in new Covid crackdown

He is reported as saying: “Outside your household and socialising between households, the highest place of incidence of likely transmission – measured by where people have contacts – is unfortunately hospitality.

“Now obviously that finding is not good news in terms of the policy action we have to take for that sector.”

It comes as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a further tightening of restrictions in Scotland from 6pm on Friday, October 9.

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Under the new rules, indoor hospitality venues will only be allowed to operate between 6am and 6pm daily, selling food and non-alcoholic drinks only, while outdoor bars will be allowed to serve alcohol until 10pm.

In the five regions with the highest number of cases – including Glasgow and Edinburgh – licensed premises will have to shut for a 16-day period, although they can offer takeaway services.

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