BCC responds to new national Coronavirus restrictions

22 September 2020

Responding to new national restrictions for England to combat a rising number of Coronavirus cases, announced by the Prime Minister today (22 September), British Chambers of Commerce Director General Adam Marshall said: “Businesses understand that further restrictions are necessary to tackle the rising number of Coronavirus cases, but these measures will impact business and consumer confidence at a delicate time for the economy.

“Businesses, their employees and customers need to see a clear road map for the existing restrictions and those that may be introduced in the future. This must include transparent trigger points, and clarity about the support available to protect jobs and livelihoods.”

“The Government should waste no time in setting out a comprehensive support package for firms forced to close or reduce capacity through no fault of their own.”

The restrictions include:

• Pubs, bars and restaurants to close at 10pm
• They will also be restricted to table service only
• People should work from home wherever possible
• Face masks compulsory for bar staff and non-seated customers, shop workers, waiters and taxi drivers
• Limit on guests at weddings reduced from 30 to 15 – funerals still allowed 30 mourners
• Plans to allow fans to return to sporting events in October paused
• “Rule of six” now applies indoor team sports
• Fines for not wearing masks or following rules increased to £200 for first offence