The Government’s current policy on social distancing is coming under increasing pressure to change from 2m to 1m within Conservative Party ranks.
Former Conservative Party Leader and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Sir Iain Duncan Smith is leading the revolt as calls for relaxation of social distancing in line with World Health Organisation guidance grow.
Another former cabinet minister, Damian Green is rallying backbenchers saying it is essential for the economy as UK PLC looks to restart.
Yesterday saw many pro 1m social distancing MP’s lobbying Chancellor Rishi Sunak on the urgency of change in line with countries like France and others. The Chancellor is for many a champion of business and if he were to announce such a change it would enhance his standing further in the business community.
After Tuesday’s government briefing by Business Secretary Alok Sharma making the reopening of hospitality at “the earliest” set for 4th July, the current Conservative Party rumblings will be good news to many across hospitality.
Laura Kuenssberg, by Alex CohnPolitical commentators are now also making noise led by the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg who today in an analysis piece writing for the BBC said: “The government’s top medics have said publicly that they don’t think the 2m rule should go.
Adding, “the decision over 2m is looming and it’s one that Boris Johnson can’t ignore”.
In yesterday’s Downing Street briefing Laura Kuenssberg tried pressing Boris Johnson more than once in her questioning of the Prime Minister. Boris Johnson was quick to move on and avoided any such probes.
Her airtime with the BBC and her columns won’t be subjected to Johnson’s control, so we can expect and look forward to more questions from her.
As pressure grows from many corners, political, media and others, the decision to reduce social distancing could silence many critics of the Prime Minister. He may well be tempted to quieten them and get on with other less controversial matters.
All Covid-19 News can be seen here.
The Covid-19 Top 20 News Pages can be seen here.
The Covid-19 pandemic is also being featured in our Facebook and twitter social media
Conservative revolt social distancing – Conservative revolt brewing on social distancing policy