Curfew warning for pubs

DOWNING Street last night warned of more national restrictions, such as curfews, being imposed within days if people do not start following the rules.

In a televised message to the nation, Professor Chris Whitty will this morning declare the UK is ‘heading in the wrong direction’ and is at a ‘critical point in the pandemic’.

The Prime Minister yesterday held talks with chief medical officer Professor Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance as he draws up a virus battle plan for the next six months.

Possible measures include forcing bars and restaurants to shut at 10pm each night, as has already happened in places such as Bolton and Newcastle. There may also be a ban on socialising with people from other households.

The Government is preparing to launch a major offensive to enforce the rules currently in place in a bid to minimise the need for further restrictions.

Professor Whitty and Sir Patrick will present data on countries that are experiencing a second wave, such as France and Spain, and how this could be replicated here.

A Downing Street source said: ‘Infection rates are going up, we are in the grip of a second Covid wave and we’re now in the last chance saloon.’

They said Professor Whitty and Sir

Patrick ‘will today set out the latest data and the stark reality we’re facing’.

Senior Government officials have become concerned at scenes of drinkers crammed into bars or standing on the street outside in large groups.

They also fear that many places are not collecting the details of customers needed for the test and trace system.

Since Friday, councils in England have had the power to issue fines of up to £4,000 on businesses that allow in groups of more than six people or fail to keep a record of those served.

But the Mail understands the Government is considering going further by giving councils the ability to order immediate closure of premises.

Ministers are also looking at tightening the law so people are banned from ordering at the bar or counter.

Retailers will be asked to encourage customers to comply with the requirement to wear a face covering in shops.