MATT Hancock is gearing up to announce which parts of the UK will be placed under Tier 3 restrictions from December 3.
The toughest category measures will be eased, however, over Christmas – here’s what you need to know.
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A man wearing a face mask passes Christmas lights outside a shop in central London
What are the rules for Tier 3 over Christmas?
Up to three households in Tier 3 will be able to meet inside over a period of five days over Christmas.
Social distancing and travel rules will be scrapped from December 23 to 27 -meaning families will be able to hug those in their bubble and stay overnight.
Cops won’t be expected to patrol to enforce the new rules – but will step in if people break them by hosting huge gatherings and hold parties.
Which areas are in Tier 3?
So far, the Government has confirmed that Manchester, Birmingham and Newcastle will be in Tier 3.
What are the rules for Tier 3 for December?
The rules will be stricter for the rest of December as follows:
- All shops can stay open
- You can meet with others in public outdoor places, such as beaches or parks, but only in groups of up to six people
- You must not meet socially indoors or in most outdoor places with anybody you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble, this includes in any private garden or at most outdoor venues
- Areas should only be at this level for 28 days then a review should take place
- You should maintain social distancing from anyone not in your household or support bubble
- People can’t stay overnight somewhere outside of their local area unless needed for work, education or similar
- Accommodation will be closed in these areas except for specific reasons
- Pubs, cafes and restaurants must close except for takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.
- You should work from home where possible
- Businesses such as hair, beauty and nail salons can stay open
- People are advised against travelling out of their area
- You should still wear a face covering
- Public buildings such as libraries can open
- Up to 15 people can attend a wedding ceremony or civil partnership but no reception is allowed
- Up to 30 people can attend someone’s funeral and up to 15 people can attend someone’s wake
- Gyms, pools, and leisure facilities can open
Can I go to the pub?
No. Unfortunately people in Tier 3 cannot sit inside the pub, but they will be able to collect a takeaway from their local.
Pubs, cafes and restaurants must all close except for takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.
Can I travel to see family?
Yes. You can still see your family outside in public outdoor places, such as beaches or parks, but only in groups of up to six people.
You must not, however, meet socially indoors or in most outdoor places with anybody you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble.
You should also maintain social distancing from anyone not in your household or support bubble.
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