Tougher restrictions will be introduced for the capital – but no decision has been taken on moving Greater Manchester into Tier 3.
London will face Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions from Saturday, with the capital’s mayor warning that the virus is “spreading rapidly in every corner of our city”.
Moving to the “high” alert warning means millions of people in London will be banned from meeting people from other households indoors, whether that is in their home or in a pub or restaurant.
People can meet outside in private gardens and outdoor spaces – provided they adhere to social distancing and follow the “rule of six” on gatherings.
Health minister Helen Whately told London MPs about the decision in a meeting on Thursday morning, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock later formally announcing the move in a Commons statement.
He also confirmed a number of other areas will be joining London in Tier 2 from midnight on Friday: Essex (excluding Southend and Thurrock), Elmbridge, Barrow-in-Furness, York, North East Derbyshire, Chesterfield and Erewash.
There has been no decision about whether to move Greater Manchester into Tier 3 (“very high”), the highest level of restrictions.
