For the
attention of the Clerk of the Council
14th
May 2020
I am writing to you
to provide you and your Council with the latest information concerning the
government’s new regulations for social distancing.
In view of the
falling death rate and fewer infections in the community and new scientific
evidence, the government has made some modest modifications to the lockdown
restrictions. These changes took effect yesterday (Wednesday 13th
May).
Work
There has been no
major change to the rules on work, although the government has signalled a
change in emphasis. People are still encouraged to work from home where they
can. However, if they cannot work from home, they are now encouraged to go to
work.
The government has
issued a further clarification that professional childcare is work that cannot
be done from home, so people such as nannies or childminders can go to work.
Schools
Similarly, there
has been no change to the rules regarding schools, but parents who are already
allowed to send their children to school, such as critical workers, or parents
of vulnerable children, will be encouraged to do so.
Outdoor Activities
In view of
scientific advice which suggests that risk of transmission is measurably lower
outdoors, the government has made a number of changes to the rules. These
include:
§
Lifting
the restriction on exercise once a day, so people can now exercise outdoors as
many times as they wish.
§
People
are now permitted to spend time outside even when not exercising, so
sunbathing, angling and other outdoor pursuits are allowed. This includes
sports which can be played whilst socially distanced, such as tennis.
§
Meeting
up with one person from outside your household is now allowed, so long as you
remain at least two metres away.
§
People
may drive to outdoor open spaces irrespective of distance, so long as they
maintain social distancing requirements while there.
People are still
not allowed to play team sports such as cricket or football, except with
members of their own household, nor is it permissible to meet up in groups.
Transport
People should
continue to avoid public transport where at all possible. The Government is now
advising that people should aim to wear a face-covering in enclosed spaces
where social distancing is not always possible and they come into contact with
others that they do not normally meet, for example on busses or in shops.
While you are
allowed to drive to outdoor spaces irrespective of distance, this is not an
excuse to travel miles for tourist purposes. Caravanning is still not allowed
and caravan sites remain closed for non-permanent residents.
International Arrivals
The government’s
advice on international travel has not changed, however, international arrivals
are likely to be required to self-isolate for fourteen days when entering the
country. This requirement is expected to be in force by the end of the month.
Enforcement
The government is
increasing the fines for those who break these regulations. Fines now start at
£100 for a first infraction, doubling for each further offence, up to a maximum
of £3,200.
Financial support
The government has
extended the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to October. There will be no
changes to the scheme until the end of July. From August, the scheme will
continue, with greater flexibility to allow employees to return to work.
Housing
The government has
made some changes to the rules around the housing market, to make it easier for
people to move home. People are now allowed to move house, so long as this is
done in line with social distancing. Further, estate agent offices and show
homes can reopen and viewings are permitted.
Further changes
will be made no sooner than 1st June, if the number of infections
and the rate of infection continue to fall.
While these
modifications to the rules provide greater opportunities for individuals and
families to enjoy the outdoors, it is important no one takes unacceptable advantage
of it.
My own view is
that what is allowed is not always wise, and I am urging everyone to consider
the possible consequences of their actions. The best advice is still to stay at
home where possible and I am discouraging tourists from visiting East
Yorkshire at the present time.
If you have any
concerns 0r questions relating to this new guidance, please feel free to contact
me.
Telephone
enquiries call 01377 812123 or 020 7219 4077.
If sending an
email, please write to secretary@gregknight.com
or, you can write
to:
The Rt Hon Sir
Greg Knight House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. However, please note that the
post is currently subject to some delays.
Yours sincerely,
Greg
Sir Greg Knight MP
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