By Ashley Young-
Social gatherings of more than six people will be illegal in England from Monday, with some exemptions – amid a steep rise in coronavirus cases.
Under strict new laws, will ban larger groups meeting anywhere socially indoors or outdoors, the Uk government has said.
The rules will not apply to schools, workplaces or Covid-secure weddings, funerals and organised team sports.
Downing Street said the laws will be enforced through a £100 fine, if people fail to comply with police, doubling up to a maximum of £3,200.
The rules which come into force on 14 September have exemptions. Households and support bubbles bigger than six people will be unaffected by the restrictions A full list of exemptions will be published by the government later.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to deliver further details at a Downing Street news conference on Wednesday.
In a preview of his address, the PM said: “We need to act now to stop the virus spreading. So we are simplifying and strengthening the rules on social contact – making them easier to understand and for the police to enforce.
“It is absolutely critical that people now abide by these rules and remember the basics – washing your hands, covering your face, keeping space from others, and getting a test if you have symptoms.”
No 10 said any group of seven or more people gathering anywhere “risks being dispersed by police or fined for non-compliance”.
Image: Sky News