The new ‘rule of six’ for social gatherings is now in effect

From Monday, we can all only socialise in groups no larger than six, indoors or outdoors, unless everyone is from the same household or support bubble

 

From today, the new ‘rule of six’ for social gatherings comes into effect and these measures will help control and suppress the spread of coronavirus.

 

Despite the enormous sacrifices of people over the last few months, the latest figures have shown an increase in the number of coronavirus cases. It is right that the government has acted now to stop the virus from spreading.

 

The Prime Minister announced that, with reasonable exemptions, the number of people legally allowed to meet socially will be reduced from thirty to six. This new lower limit will make it easier for everyone to understand what is expected.

 

It is absolutely critical that all of us abide by these rules and remember the basics.

 

Since the beginning of the pandemic I’ve urged everyone to stay safe by following the government’s guidance. I repeat this now because, understandably, with the examples of some cases have been reported at a large city centre shop as well as elsewhere in Norfolk, people may well be worried about the virus in Norwich.

 

We should all wash our hands, keep a social distance, wear a mask when required, and get tested and isolate if we have any symptoms.  I do this, and have since the spring, and I take special care because I have a public responsibility.  When I’m meeting constituents, I aim to help them stay safe by personally following the government rules as well as any other guidelines that a meeting-place might ask.

 

This has been an incredibly hard time for so many people, and my heart goes out particularly to those who’ve lost loved ones. We will face more challenges over the next few months as we must still deal with this virus. I encourage everyone once again to keep up our efforts and stay safe.

 

From Monday, it is illegal to meet in groups of more than six people.  There are full details here:  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-meeting-with-others-safely-social-distancing/coronavirus-covid-19-meeting-with-others-safely-social-distancing