Tory backbenchers are calling on the government to reverse the 2-metre social distancing rule in England.
Sir Iain Duncan Smith, Damian Green and others say that the move is essential for the economy. The government has responded that they are constantly reviewing the lockdown guidance they provide.
While lockdown in England is slowly being eased, with single adults allowed to stat at another household from this Saturday, there are fears that maintaining social distancing could delay economic recovery further.
Sir Iain has noted that the impact of social distancing on the public’s ability to move around the country could mean that when pubs, restaurants and cafes do reopen, a proper recovery will not be possible. He has asked the government to consider a move to the 1-metre social distancing rule which is in keeping with World Health Organization guidance. This is already observed in countries including France, Singapore and Denmark.
In a statement, Sir Iain said that: "The number one and single most important priority to unlock the economy is getting the distance down to 1-metre.
"The hospitality sector simply can't make a living at 2-metres.”
Green also supports the move towards reducing social distancing. He said that moving from 2-metres to 1-metre was the "single biggest change" the government ought to make in the coming weeks.
"I think that makes a huge difference to many parts of industry, particularly hospitality businesses, restaurants, pubs, and so on," Green noted.
He continued: "We've seen other countries do that, actually move from 2-metres to 1-metre, without any damaging effects so far."
