COVID-19: England's legal limits on social contact set to end in June

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England is set to remove all legal limits on people's social contact by 21 June, the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson announced on Monday. /Getty Images

England is set to remove all legal limits on people's social contact by 21 June, the Prime Minister announced on Monday.

After schools reopen on 8 March, with some outdoor restrictions lifted by 29 March, Boris Johnson said the next step will be to reopen beer gardens and hairdressers in England on 12 April.

Setting out his roadmap for easing England's third COVID-19 lockdown, Mr. Johnson told MPs that the dates in his four-stage plan were not set in stone and were the earliest possible point at which the restrictions could be lifted.

Nevertheless, the PM has now provided full details of his long-awaited plan that foresees a significant return to normality in four months. Key dates include:

On April 12, non-essential retail, hairdressers, nail salons, gyms and outdoor areas in hospitality venues (such as beer gardens) set to reopen - along with libraries, museums, zoos and theme parks. Self-contained accommodation will reopen, but people will only be able to stay with members of their household

On May 17, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, hotels, BBs and children's play areas set to open their doors once more, with fans allowed back into sporting events.

Most rules on social contact outdoors will be lifted, while mixing of different households will be allowed indoors. Up to 30 people will be allowed at weddings, funerals, wakes, receptions and christenings.

(With input from agencies)