COVID-19 Update 3rd December 2020

• Business Traveller and Other Sectoral Exemptions

A limited number of exemptions for business travellers, to ensure those who need to frequently travel to complete their jobs, will be effective 04:00 on Saturday 5^th December. The criteria for exemption is for those travelling on business to deliver significant economic benefit to the UK:

• • Senior executives of multinational firms visiting their UK subsidiaries to do activities which will create/preserve 50+ UK jobs
  • UK-based executives who had left the country for business and are seeking an exemption for specific activity on their return which will create/preserve 50+ UK jobs
  • Foreign based company executives or their representatives seeking to make:
    – A financial investment of £100k + in a UK-based business
    – Place a contract with a UK-based business with a value of £100K+
    – Establish a new business within the UK which will create 50+ UK jobs.

Exemptions will also come into force for certain types of performing arts professionals, TV production staff, journalists, and recently-signed elite sportspersons. These exemptions will remain under constant review.

• Changes in Wales

As you will have seen on the news, from Friday, the Welsh Government is introducing legislation that will allow travel between Wales and England. However, accommodation providers in England should be aware that the new regulations will prohibit travel into tier three zones in England. The legislation will also prevent Welsh residents to travel to tiers three and four in Scotland and the whole of Northern Ireland. Other points to note:

• • Indoor attractions remain closed in Wales but outdoor attractions can open
  • Pubs and restaurants are banned from selling alcohol and must close at 6pm (I can see an interesting form of tourism to England resulting from this)

Here’s a link to a comprehensive FAQ on the new rules in Wales.

https://gov.wales/coronavirus-regulations-4-december-frequently-asked-questions

• Air Corridor Changes

You’ll be pleased to learn that there are no changes to the Air Corridor list this week.

• Performing Arts Guidance Update

The primary guidance for Performing Arts has been amended to clarify that food and drink (including alcohol) can be served in theatres 30 minutes before, during and 30 minutes after a performance.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/performing-arts

• Updated Business Closure Guidance

The Guidance on Business closures has been updated with further details on the rules and restrictions that apply. Some of the key points are:

Tier 3

• • Markets may open, however where there are larger events with activities such as funfairs, local authorities may choose to prevent these from going ahead if they are concerned about the safety practices or transmission risk.
  • Betting shops remain open, but should implement additional mitigations
  • Outdoor venues and attractions can remain open and can offer food and drink as a takeaway service.

Tier 2    

• • Cinemas, theatres, concert halls and sports grounds are exempt from having to serve a substantial meal with alcohol for customers who have a ticket to the screening/performance/match and intend to consume whilst seated and watching the event. When alcohol is to be consumed in the bar or restaurant area itself, this must be alongside a substantial meal and full table service must be provided.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close/closing-certain-businesses-and-venues-in-england