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Three-Tier System of Restrictions in England Announced

Boris Johnson has announced a new three-tier system of restrictions in England, which will come into force on Wednesday 14 October.

Published: 13 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of multiple traffic lights set up in one gigantic and confusing tree of signals.
We are lobbying hard for the Chancellor to extend additional wage support schemes to help the self-employed. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The new three-tier system will mean every area in England will be classified as being on medium, high or very high alert. Areas with the lowest rates of infection will be placed on a medium alert level. This means they will face the basic national rules currently in force.

Areas on high alert level will face extra restrictions. This will include no mixing between different households indoors, and the rule of six continuing outdoors.

Areas on very high level alert will be those where transmission is rising the most rapidly. They will face additional restrictions:

  • Pubs and bars will be closed, except where they serve substantial meals.
  • Households cannot mix indoors or outdoors.
  • Gyms, leisure centres and casinos will close.

The new restrictions will come into force on Wednesday 14 October.

They are being debated in parliament today. Thus far it seems that even in the very high alert level areas, weddings, funerals and COVID secure workplaces (where work cannot be undertaken at home) will be allowed, but we are waiting for further guidance.

The Chancellor has also announced additional wage support schemes in the most restricted areas, and we are lobbying hard for him to extend this help to the self-employed.

Take action now

Join our urgent call to the Government to do more, in order to safeguard the future of the UK’s music culture and industry – ask your MP to make your voice heard in Parliament.

You can use our template letter if you’re not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too – personal stories make all the difference.

Write to your MP now.

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