Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment he has made of the effect of attendance at sporting or mass gathering events on levels of covid-19 infection in the (a) hospitality sector and (b) wider community.

The Government is drawing evidence from a range of sources in order to shape our understanding of the overall impact the effects of the pandemic has had on our sectors.

Since 17 May, events have been able to reopen subject to capacity caps which vary depending on whether the event is indoors or outdoors. There has been COVID guidance in place for all settings, including the hospitality industry to ensure every precaution is taken to minimise the risk of infection. This guidance includes social distancing, the use of face masks, ventilation and general COVID 19 precautions.

From Step 4 of the roadmap all settings will be open, including nightclubs. Large events, such as music concerts and sporting events can resume without any limits on attendance or social distancing requirements.

There will be an ongoing assessment of data, and public safety is our main priority. We will continue to work closely with the local authorities, DHSC, and PHE to closely monitor attendees. This includes monitoring any potential prevalence of COVID-19 as a result of the events. The Test and Trace team are working closely with the ERP on our pilot events to ensure that any attendee who tests positive for the virus is contacted, and understands the requirement to self-isolate.