Coronavirus in West Berkshire Update

As part of the first step of the plan for easing lockdown in England:

Secondary school pupils can access tests and will be required to wear face coverings in classrooms and shared spaces like corridors.

There will be a gap of at least five weeks between each of the plan’s subsequent steps to allow for the impact of changes on infection rates and hospital admissions to be assessed.

The second step from 12 April would see major parts of the economy permitted to reopen:

But wider social contact rules will continue to apply in all settings – meaning no indoor mixing between different households will be allowed.

Mr Johnson confirmed the end of hospitality curfews – and requirements to eat a substantial meal alongside alcohol.

He said a review of international leisure travel restrictions would be announced by 12 April at the earliest.

Funerals continue with up to 30 people, and weddings with up to 15 guests.

The third step will come from 17 May – if the data allows – and will see the “rule of six” abolished for outdoor gatherings, replaced with a limit of 30 people:

Up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings, receptions, funerals and wakes.

Mr Johnson said this step would also “consider the potential role of Covid status certification” – which could refer to so-called “vaccine passports” – in helping indoor venues to reopen safely.