What the PM said: Early closing for pubs, work from home if you can, only 15 guests at weddings

"I am sorry this will affect many businesses just getting back on their feet, but we must act now to avert graver consequences"

Boris Johnson says new restrictions introduced to battle Covid-19 could be in place for six months.

The Prime Minister told the House of Commons pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm every night and office staff should work from home where possible.

He said the UK had reached a "perilous turning point" with possibly tens of thousands of new coronaviorus infections next month.

And the PM warned if today's changes fail to bring the R number down he will "deploy greater firepower with significantly greater restrictions".

Mr Johnson added: ""We always knew the prospect of a second wave was real.

"This is the moment we must act to curb the reproduction rate so we can save lives, protect the NHS and protect the most vulnerable."

But he stressed: "This is by no means a return to the full lockdown of March, we are not issuing a general instruction to stay at home".

Pubs face being forced to close at 10pm for the next six months. Photo: Getty Imagesplaceholder image
Pubs face being forced to close at 10pm for the next six months. Photo: Getty Images

The PM announced more places where face coverings will be required.

Staff in hospitality and retail sectors will now need to wear masks indoors, as well as passengers travelling in taxis, while pubs and restaurants must operate a table service only.

Exemptions to the “rule of six” will be cut down and the limit on guests at weddings will be reduced from 30 to 15.

Finally, plans for trials to have the public return to major sporting events and conference centres have been paused.

Boris Johnson on his way to deliver his stark message to the Commons today. Photo: Getty Images.placeholder image
Boris Johnson on his way to deliver his stark message to the Commons today. Photo: Getty Images.

Fines for those breaching laws on gatherings or wearing face coverings will be doubled to £200 for first offenders and businesses also face £10,000 penalties for breaching Covid-19 rules.

Mr Johnson added: "I am sorry this will affect many businesses just getting back on their feet, but we must act to avoid graver consequences.

"Daily hospital admissions in England have more than doubled and as sure as night follows day that will lead to more people dying."

"This is a package to drive down the R but to allow education and businesses to continue.

"This virus is a fact of our lives and I must tell the House and the country our fight against it will continue,"

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