Just weeks after delaying the easing of some lockdown measures, Boris Johnson has given the green light for more leisure activities to re-open – as well as tougher penalties for those who refuse to wear face masks.
It has now been announce that from tomorrow (July 15), live indoor performances, beauty salons and small wedding receptions will be allowed to re-open in England. Bowling alleys, skating rinks, casinos and soft play centres will also be able to re-open.
The Prime Minister said the return of such activities “will allow more people to return to work and the public to get back to more of the things they have missed”.
It has also been announced that the maximum fine for refusing to wear a mask will be doubled from £1,600 to £3,200, while “senseless” hosts of illegal raves will be fined up to £10,000.
When announcing the further easing of lockdown and the changes to the penalties, Boris Johnson said: “Most people in this country are following the rules and doing their bit to control the virus, but we must remain focused and we cannot be complacent.
“That is why we are strengthening the enforcement powers available to use against those who repeatedly flout the rules.
“At every stage I have said our plan to reopen society and the economy is conditional and that it relies on continued progress against the virus.
“Today, we are able to announce some further changes which will allow more people to return to work and the public to get back to more of the things they have missed.
“However, as I have always said, we will not hesitate to put on the brakes if required, or to continue to implement local measures to help to control the spread of the virus.”