Dear Ms Miller,
Thank you for contacting me about Coronavirus restrictions.
The response in the UK has been guided by science, as the bedrock on which the Government is making its decisions. Fundamentally, we need to slow the spread of the virus, and the best way to do that is for people to follow social distancing guidance and rules. A national effort is required to achieve this, and I am extremely grateful to all members of the public who are following the rules and guidance.
As you will have seen, the latest figures have shown an increase in the number of Coronavirus cases. It is welcome that the Government has announced a simplification of the rules regarding social gatherings. It is now illegal to meet socially with more than six people. This means that it is easier for the police to identify those who are breaking the law and putting the enormous sacrifices of the British people at risk. The penalty for breaking the rule of six will now double to £200 for a first offence.
I agree that it is vital to balance the need to restrict the spread of the virus without infringing on civil liberties, while allowing the restoration of economic and social life. My colleagues in Government have made a judgement that the best way to balance these things is to enable people to go out and about, and to see and socialise with friends and family, but to require that, if they choose to do so, they take additional measures to restrict the spread of this virus.
The guidelines and rules are kept under constant review to ensure that restrictions are not in place any longer than necessary. I understand your concerns regarding the restrictions, indeed I would argue that such restrictions are difficult to accept in a democratic and free society. However, this is an extraordinary time and I have concluded that the current action to stop the spread of the disease is necessary, however uncomfortable it is for us all.
With best wishes
John Whittingdale
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