Boris Johnson to consider lifting ‘rule of six’ on Christmas Day so families can celebrate together
LOCKDOWN laws could be lifted on Christmas Day — to allow friends and families to celebrate together.
Ministers want the “rule of six” suspending so people can meet in larger groups to tuck into their festive turkey.
Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
Boris Johnson is considering the move as a “sweetener” when to soften the blow when he announces new restrictions.
Most read in Politics
Under the rule, anyone meeting in a group of more than six indoors or out are breaking the law and face a £100 on-the-spot penalty, with fines of up to £3,200 for repeat offenders.
But an insider told The Sun on Sunday: “The PM is anxious to avoid being portrayed as Scrooge.
“He’s fully aware that millions of people are making big sacrifices to defeat this virus and is considering ways to allow them to experience the joy of Christmas for at last part of the holiday season.”
Stores' warning
SUPERMARKETS have warned they’ve been hit by increased demand – fuelling fears a second wave of Covid will spark a second wave of unnecessary panic buying.
Sainbury’s and online retailer Ocado have both uploaded notices on their websites warning customers they may struggle to get a delivery slot.
Ocado told shoppers “delivery slots are selling out faster than usual” while Sainbury’s says vulnerable customers are being given priority because “slots are still in high demand”.
Stores will be hoping not to see a repeat of the panic buying across the nation in March that saw stocks of staples, like bread, and toilet paper run out as people selfishly bulk-bought essentials.
Supermarket chiefs were eventually forced to release a joint letter to customers explaining “there’s enough for everyone”, as long as people stick to their usual shops.
GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk