A decision on whether to reduce the two-metre rule to save thousands of jobs in bars and restaurants will be made before July 4, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said today.
His promise fuelled hope that ministers will complete a review of the social -distancing measure in a fortnight to give advance guidance to businesses that are wondering if they will be viable.
“It won’t be weeks and weeks away,” he told BBC1. “The next potential date for an unlock, if it’s possible, if the science allows, is July 4 onwards.”
His comments suggested a shorter timetable than indicated by Minister for London Paul Scully who said it would be “a matter of weeks”.
The next major landmark change of anti-coronavirus lockdown measures is due on July 4 when holidays and restaurant meals outdoors may be possible.
Mr Shapps conceded there was “tension” between rival voices and said any decision would take into account both medical and economic evidence.
He revealed that if the social distancing rule is reduced to one metre he will allow more passengers to be carried on public transport, which is currently running at less than 10 per cent capacity.
