Boris Johnson has issued a message to students ahead of their return to university.
The academic year is set to begin in the coming weeks with thousands of students heading back to campuses up and down the country.
Speaking at a government press conference from Downing Street on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said the Department for Education will issue guidance on how universities can remain open to students in a Covid-secure way.
He said: "Opening universities is critical, again, for students' life chances and, again, the health risks to individuals are low.
"Of course, many university students are in the age bracket where we have seen the infection rates rise recently as Chris (Whitty) was just explaining."
Mr Johnson then issued his plea: "My message to students is simple – please, for the sake of your education and your parents’ and your grandparents' health: wash your hands, cover your face, make space, and don’t socially gather in groups of more than six, now and when term starts."
The press briefing, the first to be held in six weeks, was planned to confirm the introduction of the new social gathering law.
From Monday, September 14, it will be illegal for people to gather in groups of more than six people in any setting.
There are only a limited number of exceptions including schools and weddings.
Mr Johnson said the new rules are being put in place "to prevent another wholesale national lockdown".
