This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 23, 2020, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to ease the coronavirus lockdown in England, allowing pubs, restaurants, and hotels to reopen from July 4.
Johnson emphasized the importance of people enjoying their new freedom to socialize while still acting responsibly. He expressed his eagerness to visit a pub or restaurant, despite his current diet, saying, "Frankly I can't wait to go to a pub or a restaurant, even if it may not be wholly compatible with the new diet that I'm on."
As part of the relaxation of social distancing rules, drinkers will be required to stay one meter apart, rather than two, to allow pubs to accommodate more customers. Visitors to pubs will also be required to provide their contact details, although the exact guidelines have yet to be published.
Johnson also highlighted the need for people to be careful and follow the guidance, warning against the spread of the virus in crowded beer gardens. He said, "I want to see bustle, I want to see activity, but let's be absolutely clear that I also want to see everybody being careful: stay alert and follow the guidance."
Published on June 26, 2020, at 21:57:20.
