- from today outdoor markets will be able to trade again as the
government starts to lift some lockdown measures
- the Chancellor shopped at Tachbrook Market in Pimlico, London
to mark the first day many sellers have been able to open for
business
The transmission of coronavirus is lower outdoors and it is
easier to follow COVID-19 Secure guidelines in open spaces. This
means we can allow outdoor markets to reopen in a safe way.
While buying lunch, the Chancellor met Mr Ratib Albudoor, owner
of Falafel Rush at London’s Tachbrook Market, who
had to close his stall because of the virus. Mr Albudoor is one
of the many traders across England who can reopen their stalls
today once they are COVID-19 secure and can show customers will
be safe.
The Chancellor said:
From today, outdoor markets selling flowers, books, crafts, and
fashion can start trading again, marking a major milestone in
our plan to kickstart the economy.
We’re only able to take these steps because of what we have
achieved together so far. If the scientific and medical advice
allows, the next steps will be to reopen non-essential retail
in mid-June, and then hospitality and leisure in early July, so
these sectors can start trading once again.
- Pictures of the Chancellor’s visit are available on
our Flickr page.
- In May the Prime Minister set out a timeline for the
reopening of thousands of high street shops, department stores
and shopping centres across England. Any business that is open
must complete a risk assessment and take the necessary steps to
manage those risks, as is their legal obligation.
- All other non-essential retail will be able to reopen from 15
June if the scientific and medical advice allows, provided they
are able to follow the COVID-19 Secure guidelines. This will
provide shops and other retail branches enough time to put in
place the measures to meet the necessary social distancing and
hygiene standards.
