Gatherings of six or more to be banned in England

Gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England "for the forseeable future" including gardens, parks, pub gardens, or indoors. Exceptions will be granted if households or support bubbles are larger; work or education; weddings or funerals; or organised team sports held in a Covid-secure way.

The government's new restrictions are designed to restrict the rising number of coronavirus cases across England - almost 8500 positive tests have been recorded in the last three days.  

Ministers are concerned that younger people have been ignoring the rules and putting older relatives and more vulnerable people at risk.

The Prime Minister is expected to tell the press conference: "We need to act now to stop the virus spreading. So we are simplifying and strengthening the rules on social contact - making them easier to understand and for the police to enforce."

"It is absolutely critical that people now abide by these rules and remember the basics – washing your hands, covering your face, keeping space from others, and getting a test if you have symptoms."

nder current rules for England, guidelines limit most outdoor gatherings to six people, or no more than two households or household bubbles if people are meeting indoors.

Full guidance on exceptions will be announced at Downing Street later today.