Government issue further guidance on closure of non-essential businesses and premises

Following on from last night’s announcement by the Prime Minister, this morning the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government have published guidance on the closure of businesses and premises across the UK.

The guidance outlines all the types of ‘non-essential’ premises that must remain closed during the three interim week period, and provides any exceptions to this rule, such as at takeaway services.

Any premise that is to remain open, either through being essential or an exception, must ensure the following:

• Keep a distance of two metres between customers and shop assistants
• Let people enter the shop only in small groups, to ensure that spaces are not crowded
• Queue control is required outside of shops and other essential premises that remain open.

Environmental Health and Trading Standards officers will monitor compliance with these regulations, with police support provided if appropriate. Businesses and premises that breach them will be subject to prohibition notices, and potentially unlimited fines.

The full guidance can be seen here.