New restrictions as London placed on High Covid-19 Alert
Publication date: October 15, 2020
London will be placed on High Alert from 12.01am on Saturday following an increase in Covid-19 infection levels, the Government announced today.
This means people must not meet with anybody from outside their own household or support bubble in any indoor setting.
This includes their own homes or in a public place, such as bars or restaurants.
They may still meet people in outside settings, such as parks and their own gardens, but only if the groups are limited to a maximum of six people.
The new alert level restrictions come on top of those imposed when London was placed on Medium Alert earlier this week, when the Government’s new 3 tier system was launched.
Residents are also being advised to only travel when necessary. They are being told to reduce the number of journeys they make – and if using public transport to avoid the busiest times.
Schools, universities and places of worship can remain open, however weddings and funerals can only go ahead with a limited number of people.
Restaurants and bars will still have to close between 10pm and 5am, and takeaways can be served after this time via a delivery service, click-and-collect or drive-thru.
Organised indoor sport and exercise classes can continue to take place, provided the Rule of Six is followed.
If the situation continues to get worse and infections rise a new raft of even stricter measures could be introduced.
Dr Will Maimaris, Director of Public Health in Haringey, said: “Over the past few weeks we have been seeing the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 in Haringey rise.
“This is the same pattern we have seen across London.
“Admissions to local hospitals are increasing, with rising numbers of Covid patients needing intensive care support.
“Some people are dying and without the care and skill of the doctors and nurses who are treating them, many more would die.
“I know many of you are following the guidance and I would like to say thank you for that. I must repeat: Do the Right Thing.
“That means wearing a face covering when going to indoor public spaces; wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; socially distance, stay at least 2 metres away from others, and get a test if you have symptoms.
“But most of all keep your social interactions small, no matter what age you are. Every time you mix with other people you run the risk of catching or spreading the virus and you won’t even know it.”
Cllr Joseph Ejiofor, Leader of Haringey Council, said: “This is the right thing to do for London and our borough.
“It is absolutely vital that we do all we can to prevent the continued spread of this virus. We all have a role to play and it is crucial that every resident pays keen attention to the public health messaging – it is there to save lives, and as a council we will be actively enforcing it where we have the power to do so.
“I want to thank everyone who has been doing the right thing and following the guidance.
“We are now expecting – and desperately need - the Government to properly fund and support local authorities as we continue to deliver for our residents and businesses.”
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