Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social care, what assessment the Government has made of the effect of the reopening of pubs on the covid-19 R rate; and if she will make a statement.
Ministers have taken into account scientific advice and assessments of the current position against the five tests. The changes, including the reopening of pubs, are a cautious next step in returning life to as normal, whilst limiting the transmission risk. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has published COVID-19 secure guidance on GOV.UK to help businesses put mitigations in place to minimise this risk. We will continue to monitor the R number and remain ready to put the brakes on and implement stricter measures if needed.