Boris Johnson Admits Lockdown Rules Are 'Confusing' As He Struggles To Explain Them
Boris Johnson has apologised and said he “misspoke” after struggling to explain new restrictions imposed on the north-east of England.
From Wednesday it will be illegal for people in large parts of the region to mix households in indoor settings such as pubs and restaurants.
The government said the local lockdown is designed to drive down a recent spike in coronavirus cases.
But it was unclear whether it will also be against the law for households to meet in pub gardens.
This morning skills minister Gillian Keegan was unable to answer when pressed. “I don’t know the answer to that question,” she told BBC Radio 4′s Today programme.
Speaking to reporters in Exeter on Tuesday, Johnson also was unable to give a direct answer.
“I totally understand people’s feelings about this. The vast majority of people also understand we need to be getting this virus down allowing people to continue in education and keeping our economy going in the way that we are,” the prime minister said.
“On the rule of six, outside the areas such as the north east where extra measures have been brought in, it’s six inside six outside and in the north east and other areas where extra tight measures have been brought in you should follow the guidance of local authorities.
“But it’s six in a home or six in hospitality, but as I understand it not six outside. That’s the situation.
He added: “I appreciate that this is one of those things that people will feel is confusing.”
Related...
Boris Johnson Scoffed At The Idea Of Enforcing Covid Rules. Now The Army Could Be Used
Here's What You Can And Can't Do Under The New Covid-19 Rules
Why Boris Johnson Risks 'Too Little, Too Late' On Covid Again
Johnson later tweeted an attempt to clarify the...
