Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what urgent steps his Department is taking to communicate an accurate official and public understanding of the operation of the rule of six within covid-secure venues; and what assessment his Department has made of the potential effect of misunderstanding of the rule of six among (a) enforcement officials and (b) the general public on the children’s indoor play sector.

The ‘rule of six’ applies in all indoor settings, including the children’s indoor play sector and this clear and consistent approach assists the public and enforcement officials such as the police, local authorities and public health officials to understand the requirements.

We have not made a specific assessment of potential effect of such misunderstandings of the rule of six. However, the Government continues to work closely with local authorities and the police to support effective enforcement. We keep all social distancing restrictions under continuous review.