Hugs with family and friends and indoor pints to return in England next week

Hugs with family and friends are expected to be “restored” from next week, alongside indoor socialising, as the UK government announces further easing of restrictions in England.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will confirm on Monday (10 May) the relaxation of rules for the next stage of the lockdown roadmap, which is due to take effect from 17 May.

Changes from 17 May

Ministers will hold a meeting on Monday morning to agree the next set of lockdown changes, which will take place in a week’s time.

The next phase will see most social contact rules outdoors lifted, although gatherings of more than 30 will still be illegal.

The rule of six, or two households, will apply indoors, and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has hinted that physical contact between family and friends will be allowed.

Speaking on BBC’s Andrew Marr Show on Sunday, Mr Gove said: “All being well, the Prime Minister will confirm tomorrow that there will be a relaxation, we’ve already indicated a proportionate relaxation on international travel, very limited at this stage because we have to be safe.

“In the same way, as we move into stage three of our road map it will be the case that we will see people capable of meeting indoors.

“And without prejudice to a broader review of social distancing, it is also the case that friendly contact, intimate contact, between friends and family is something we want to see restored.”

Indoor hospitality will also reopen, alongside indoor entertainment venues, including cinemas, museums and soft play areas.

The rest of the accommodation sector will reopen, such as hotels, hostels and B&Bs, and indoor adult group sports and exercise classe are expected to resume.