Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, if he will publish additional conditions that will need to be met by spas, nail bars, beauty salons and tanning salons, massage therapists, tattoo and piercing parlours before such business are allowed to reopen during the covid-19 outbreak; and if he will publish the scientific evidence that such businesses pose a greater public health risk than pubs, bars and restaurants if personal protection equipment is worn and social distancing rules are applied.

There is clearly a risk of greater transmission in close proximity services. That is why we have had to phase their introduction. We had to make difficult choices to keep the R rate below 1. We appreciate that this is difficult for some businesses. Our approach is guided by the scientific and medical advice, and every step is weighed against the evidence, remembering that the more we open up the more vigilant we will need to be.

SAGE has already confirmed that they will publish all past minutes and supporting documents. SAGE information is shared on its website: https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/scientific-advisory-group-for-emergencies-sage-coronavirus-covid-19-response.