In his most recent blog entitled "Track and trace; obligations of hospitality undertakings; North-East lockdown", Head of Trinity Chambers' Licensing team, barrister Charles Holland provides a summary of a series of regulations to be introduced under powers contained in the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984. These regulations have not been debated by Parliament, nor have they been the subject of public or industry consultation.
The first is the mandatory track and trace regulations, contained in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Collection of Contact Details etc and Related Requirements) Regulations 2020. The regulations come into force on 18 September 2020 with the exception of the QR code provisions which apply from 24 September 2020.
Then there is The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Obligations of Hospitality Undertakings) (England) Regulations 2020, which also come into force on 18 September 2020. These now oblige the hospitality trade to take reasonable steps:
- not to take bookings for tables for more than 6 people where an exception does not apply
- not to admit groups of 6 people unless an exception applies
- to ensure persons in one group do not mingle with another, and
- to keep tables apart.
Finally, The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (North East of England) Regulations 2020 will also come into force on 18 September 2020, introducing a range of localised lockdown measures across Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, Sunderland, North and South Tyneside.
COVID-19
In response to the impact of the Coronavirus crisis, Chambers' Licensing barristers and staff are committed to providing as much assistance as possible, including urgent advice, resources and support in dealing with remote, in person and hybrid hearings. Members of the team can assist in all aspects of Licensing issues arising from the pandemic and its impact on Local Authorities, Police Authorities, Businesses and individuals. For further details, please contact the clerking team on 0191 232 1927 or by email civilclerks@trinitychambers.co.uk