Here’s when Boris Johnson will speak today about new social gathering rules in England

Boris Johnson will address the public later today (Getty Images)Boris Johnson will address the public later today (Getty Images)
Boris Johnson will address the public later today (Getty Images)

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to address the nation following the introduction of new social gathering rules in England

It was announced yesterday that from Monday social gatherings will be limited to six people with limited exceptions. 

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It is expected that the Prime Minister will provide context to the new restrictions and explain the reality of the measures on the hospitality industry. 

For instance from Monday it will become compulsory for hospitality businesses in England to take customer contact details for track and trace. 

The press briefing will be the first for some time after they were sidelined following the lowering of cases across the UK earlier this summer. 

What time is Boris Johnson speaking today? 

The Prime Minister will address journalists and the public at 4pm today. 

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The meeting comes a day after the announcement of new social distancing measures in England. 

It is expected that the Prime Minister will provide clarity on upcoming public events including the Doncaster Races which is preparing to host thousands of horse racing fans. 

Where can I watch the briefing? 

Boris Johnson’s address to the nation will be available to watch live on BBC News.

You can watch it online through BBC iPlayer here, while Sky News has a live YouTube stream here.

Will the Prime Minister be joined by anyone? 

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At previous press briefings the Prime Minister has been joined by medical and scientific experts. 

These have included chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van Tam and deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries. 

What are the new rules? 

Social gatherings will be limited to six people from Monday (September 14). All six people will be allowed to be from different households.

This will apply to indoor and outdoor settings including public settings such as pubs, cafes and parks, as well as private homes. 

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Police have been handed powers to break up gatherings of more than six people.

Non-compliance will be met with a fine starting at £100 and doubling on further offences up to a maximum of £3,200. 

Why are the new measures being introduced? 

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that the new measures were “absolutely vital to protect life”.

Speaking to Sky News he said: “We have seen the increase in the number of cases sadly in the last few days.

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“We have seen across Europe there is a second wave that many countries have experienced – some of those countries have then got that second wave under control.

“We are determined to take the action that keeps people safe.

“It is incredibly important that everybody follows these new rules and we will be bringing in strict enforcement so that they can be followed.”