Downing Street has warned people not to “overdo it” when the coronavirus lockdown in England is eased this weekend.

Pubs, bars and restaurants will be able to welcome customers for the first time in more than three months on Saturday amid the coronavirus pandemic.

When he announced the major relaxation of the COVID-19 lockdown, Boris Johnson said “our long, national hibernation is coming to an end” and “life is returning to our streets”.

But as the weekend nears, the prime minister’s spokesman has said: “We do want people to be able to enjoy themselves but at the same time, now we have got coronavirus under control we need to keep it under control.

“The guidance is there, we want people to follow it and then we can make more progress together in the fight against coronavirus.

“The PM has said that it is important that people don’t overdo it.”

Mr Johnson will appear at a Downing Street news conference on Friday ahead of the easing of the restrictions.

Hairdressers and barbers will also reopen on Saturday, as will hotels, leisure facilities and tourist attractions.

Asked if the PM would be visiting a pub or restaurant himself on Saturday, his spokesman said: “He’s talked about his enthusiasm for a haircut and pint previously but I don’t know exactly what he’s doing on Saturday yet.”

When asked if Mr Johnson would get a haircut, he responded: “It will be plain for all to see next week what he’s been doing at the weekend if that does happen.”

The two-metre social distancing rule will also be reduced.

From Saturday, people will be required to keep one-metre apart from others, while also taking measures to mitigate the risk of transmitting the virus.

This includes wearing a face mask on public transport, regular handwashing, being outside and limiting time spent with others.

Source: Read Full Article