The new rules of lockdown: more questions than answers?

Changes to lockdown have been revealed by the government, although many employers, unions and parents are demanding further clarity. Here we try to clear up some frequently asked questions:

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has released a 50-page blueprint after his Sunday night address tackled many areas including schooling, exercise and return to work.

It sets out a three-phase approach. The first phase starts this week, with restrictions being eased on June 1 and further changes on July 4 at the earliest - depending on the spread of the virus. Mr Johnson announced a new slogan, changing from ‘stay at home’ to ‘stay alert’. People have been urged to wear face-coverings on public transport and in some shops. But businesses such as hairdressers, pubs and restaurants will remained closed for now.

Am I still limited to how much I can exercise outdoors each day?

Not any more. From Wednesday people will be encouraged to take more outdoor exercise - even an unlimited amount. However, this is subject to not meeting up with any more than one person from outside your household, compliance with social distancing guidelines and good hand hygiene - particularly if using shared surfaces. You will still not be able to use areas like playgrounds, outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues.

Can I sunbathe?

Yes. Boris Johnson said: “You can sit in the sun in your local park, you can drive to other destinations, you can even play sports, but only with members of your own household.” But a government official later confirmed people will be able to relax and chat with one other person from another household as long as they stay two metres apart.

Can I drive elsewhere to enjoy the outdoors?

Yes, you can drive to other destinations but only with members of your own household.

When I’m outdoors can I play sports?

Yes, but again this must be limited to doing so only with members of your own household and only a few sports facilities will be allowed to reopen.

Can I play team sports?

No - you can only exercise with up to one person from outside your household. Team sports, such as football and rugby, are still not permitted.

What if I don’t obey the social distancing rules?

You could be fined, and the financial penalties will be increased in order to enforce the social distancing rules.

Can I return to work?

You should continue to work from home if you can but if that’s not possible you should gotowork.

Anyone who cannot work from home, perhaps those in construction and manufacturing “should be actively encouraged to go to work” from Monday, the PM said.

Mr Johnson will set out how workplaces can become “Covid-secure” by following new guidance for employers.

Should I wear a face-covering?

People are being advised to wear face-coverings in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not possible or where they could come into contact with people - including on public transport or in shops.

The Government is now saying homemade cloth face-coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances.

But a face-covering is not the same as a face mask, such as surgical masks used as personal protective equipment. The Government says these supplies must “continue to be reserved for those who need it”.

Are schools reopening?

Efforts could be made to get primary school children back in stages, starting with reception, Year 1 and Year 6 at the earliest by June 1, Mr Johnson said. Remaining primary school year groups could be added at later dates.

The Government says its “ambition” is for all primary school children to return to school before the summer for a month - though this will be kept under review.

For secondary school pupils, the priority will be Years 10 and 12 with the aim being to ‘get at least some time with their teachers’ before the summer holidays.

A petition set up asking to give

Some children may return to school on June 1