Meeting friends and family and other rules expected when pubs and restaurants reopen from April 12

As England approaches the next stage in the Government’s lockdown exit roadmap, Covid rules around outdoor socialising are set to change.
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As of Monday, April 12, hospitality venues – including pubs and restaurants – will be able to provide outdoor service once again.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to give an Easter Monday speech that will update the press and public over the country’s lockdown exit route.

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He is expected to address lockdown restrictions, travel and the controversial proposals for ‘Covid passports’, among other questions.

Boris Johnson is due to give a speech on Easter Monday that will confirm whether hospitality venues can resume outdoor service on April 12, as outlined in the 'roadmap' plan.Boris Johnson is due to give a speech on Easter Monday that will confirm whether hospitality venues can resume outdoor service on April 12, as outlined in the 'roadmap' plan.
Boris Johnson is due to give a speech on Easter Monday that will confirm whether hospitality venues can resume outdoor service on April 12, as outlined in the 'roadmap' plan.
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What you can do if next lockdown easing goes ahead on Monday, April 12

Mr Johnson will also confirm whether beer gardens and hairdressers can reopen next Monday, as set out in the Government’s initial roadmap plan.

Social rules changed with the introduction of the Step 1 changes on March 29, stating groups of up to six friends or family, or a larger number as long as they are from up to two households, were allowed to socialise outdoors in places including public parks and private gardens.

The Government website stated after the March 29 changes were imposed: “You can meet up outdoors with friends and family you do not live with, either:

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“In a group of up to 6 from any number of households (children of all ages count towards the limit of 6);

“In a group of any size from up to two households (each household can include an existing support bubble, if eligible).”

The Government says that "wider social contact rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households".

As opposed to certain points last year, when punters were required to order a ‘substantial meal’ in order to consume alcohol on licensed premises, no such requirements will apply during the next step of the roadmap.

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There will also be no curfew - “although customers must order, eat and drink while seated."

The latest guidance advises that all members of the public – whether family, friends or otherwise – must continue to observe social distancing.

The rule of six or two households is set to continue after May 17 when pubs and restaurants can serve indoors, although the Government has vowed to review if it can be increased.

The maximum number of people allowed to attend weddings and wakes will also be expanded to 15. Funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners.

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