Tighter restrictions could be heading our way in England as the coronavirus rate continues to rise despite tough new restrictions across almost all of the country. More than 50,000 new infections are being recorded daily, with doctors warning the NHS is at breaking point with the number of people needing in-patient care and school leaders begging the Government to keep children at home following the Christmas break.
The crisis has already claimed the lives of more than 74,000 people throughout the UK, and death rates are rising close to that of the first peak in April.
Speculation that a fifth tier could be brought into the mix is rife, signaling that much of the country may be returning to the draconian lockdown brought in all the way back in March.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson signalled today that tougher restrictions are likely to come if the infection rate does not fall.
He said: “What we are doing now is using the tiering system, which is a very tough system… and, alas, probably about to get tougher to keep things under control. But, we will review it.
Stricter limits on meeting others could also be on the table, with absolutely no mixing outside of households allowed unless in an emergency, caring or work environment.
Currently, those in Tier 4 can meet one other from outside their household in an outdoor public space.
There could also be a limit on how long people are allowed out for a day – across the country there is no limit to how long you can spend outside of your house, but in the spring lockdown, it was only permitted to leave your house for one hour a day for exercise or to buy essentials, such as food and medicine.
Travelling to second/holiday homes could also be on the list of banned activities.
Working from home could also become mandatory if your job can be done at home.
Currently, working from home is advised if it possible – but offices have been allowed to remain open.
Playgrounds could also close as well as all public leisure facilities.
Outdoor playgrounds are currently open in Tier 4 and below.
