Boris Johnson 'misspoke' about new lockdown law
The Prime Minister apologised yesterday after saying he “misspoke” when talking about the new lockdown law in the North East.
There has been rising anger and confusion since Health Secretary Matt Hancock spoke on Monday to say households in seven north east areas will be banned from mixing indoors in any setting, although schoolsand workplacesarenot affected.
T h e P M wa s ye s te rd ay asked to issue some further detail about whether people will still be allowed to meet in pub beer gardens following confusion over the rules.
In reply, he said: “In the North East and other areas where extra-tight measures have been brought in, you should follow the guidance of local authorities but it is six in a home, six in hospitality but as I understand it, not six outside.”
But he later took to Twitter to say: “Apologies, I misspoke today.
“In the North East, new rules mean you cannot meet people from different households in social settings indoors, including in pubs, restaurants and your home. You should also avoid socialising with other households outside.
“This is vital to control the spread of coronavirus and keep everyone safe. If you are in a high risk area, please continue to follow the guidelines from local authorities."
The confusion comes after his education minister Gillian Keegan was unable to explain the rule when she was asked if people from separate households could meet outdoors at venues
She told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I’m sorry I can’t answer that question.”
Yesterday, six deaths were recorded at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust of people who tested positive for Covid-19.