Common-sense approach urged on social distancing rule

From: Julian Sturdy, Conservative MP for York Outer.

IT is important that the relaxation of restrictions reflects the state of the virus, and can be put into reverse if there are signs of a surge in infection.

But if hospitality businesses begin to open as planned after July 4, the Government needs to consider common-sense changes to the two metre social distancing rule inside premises – and in line with our European neighbours.

Germany and Holland are both applying 1.5m, while just 1m is recommended by France, Denmark and the World Health Organisation.

Rigid adherence to 2m social distancing will make many pubs and eateries commercially unviable by unsustainably limiting the number of patrons they can admit, risking permanent damage to livelihoods and communities across York and North Yorkshire, and rising unemployment.

Our ability to finance a sustained coronavirus response obviously depends on ensuring the economy can provide funds for public services. Moving away from 2m for hospitality premises could be done gradually, dropping down to 1.5m, and then 1m, provided the prevalence of the virus continues to decline.

Ministers also need to plan for the moment when there is a complete removal of social distancing requirements within hospitality venues, accompanied by broader safety precautions, as we adapt to the ‘new normal’ while progress is made on a covid vaccine.

Any such moves must of course be accompanied by ongoing shielding for the medically vulnerable, with most people empowered to make their own free decisions on whether to enter hospitality premises.

From: Marilyn S Shaw, Thornhill.

I WAS dismayed to hear Sir Keir Starmer (who I was hopeful of continuing to give constructive criticism) mention that it will be entirely the fault of the Government if there’s a second peak in infections.

He did not mention that we all have a responsibility to continue to social distance and to stay at home where possible.

We still see people crowding the beaches and beauty spots which, regrettably, they leave in a disgraceful state. Add to this the protests taking place in various parts of the UK in support of George Floyd who was killed by police in America.

Admirable though this is, they do not appear to be following guidelines. Is there no way we can make these people understand their responsibility?