Boris Johnson reveals new COVID rules on face masks, fines, pubs and working from home

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made a statement to the House of Commons today (September 22), announcing a range of new measures to combat the rapid rise of coronavirus cases in the UK.
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Face masks will become compulsory for bar staff, shop workers, waiters and taxi drivers in an effort to curb the rise in coronavirus cases in England, the prime minister has announced.

It comes after the coronavirus alert level was raised from three to four, meaning there is now a high or rising level of transmission.

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Here are the key points, which will come into force in England in the next week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made an announcement to MPs in the House of Commons on the latest situation with the coronavirus pandemic. Pic: PA Wire/PA ImagesPrime Minister Boris Johnson has made an announcement to MPs in the House of Commons on the latest situation with the coronavirus pandemic. Pic: PA Wire/PA Images
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made an announcement to MPs in the House of Commons on the latest situation with the coronavirus pandemic. Pic: PA Wire/PA Images

– Office workers who can work from home should do so.

– Face coverings must be worn in taxis and private hire vehicles, and by retail staff while at work.

– Customers in indoor hospitality will also have to wear face coverings – except while seated at a table to eat or drink.

- Fines for those failing to wear a face mask will rise to £200 and will be extended to customers when they are not seated at a table

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Pubs, bars and restaurants in England will be ordered to close by 10pm each night.

– The hospitality sector will be restricted to table service only.

– The exemptions to the rule of six will be reduced, banning indoor team sport – such as indoor five-a-side football matches.

– The planned return of spectators to sports venues from October 1 has been scrapped.

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– Wedding ceremonies and receptions will now be restricted to a maximum of 15 people - down from the current 30 - from Monday (September 28)

- The number of people allowed at funerals - 30 - will stay the same

The Prime Minister also warned that the measures could remain in place for as long as six months.

Mr Johnson will address the nation from Downing Street later today about the new restrictions and the UK's fight against the virus.