The United Kingdom during pandemic season
What is the pandemic situation in the UK?
In response to the public health crisis triggered by COVID-19, the UK government has resorted to relatively wide-ranging measures to slow the spread of the virus. Economic activity in the United Kingdom has decreased significantly since the start of the pandemic. For example, compared to February 2020, the UK's monthly GDP in April 2020 was lower by 25.3% and in August 2020 by 9.1%. The unemployment rate was only 4.8%. July-September 2020, however, this figure may be undercutting the actual unemployment rate due to government-funded layoffs. Like most other developed economies, the UK has implemented various fiscal programs to mitigate the negative economic effects of the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns.
As of May 17, the ban on traveling abroad for citizens of England will be lifted without valid, justifiable reason, but the list of territories to which you can freely travel is only 12 items.
Some of the rules regarding prohibited and permitted activities changed on April 12. Even so, many restrictions still apply. People who are not members of the same household are not allowed to meet indoors for social purposes, unless they belong to the same support group or a different type of exception to this rule applies. You should continue to work from home if possible and limit the number of journeys you make where possible.
Among other things, since April 12:
- stores with non-necessities may be opened again;
- public buildings, such as libraries and community centers, may be open;
- eateries may operate outdoors, with table service only;
- open-air attractions such as zoos, amusement parks, and shows (films and concerts) for viewers in cars may be open again;
- indoor recreational and sports facilities can be reopened for individuals doing physical exercise individually or in groups of one household or support group;
- if possible, continue to work from home and reduce travel as much as possible.
Maintaining social distancing is still very important. Keep a distance of 2 meters from people who are not members of the same household or support group, if possible, or 1 meter with additional precautions (e.g. covering the face) if it is not possible to keep 2 meters away.
