Groups of up to six people can meet up from Monday, Boris Johnson announces

Boris Johnson has announced some changes to the lockdown measures in England which will come into effect from June 1st.

The Prime Minister led the daily coronavirus briefing from Number 10 today.

He announced that the five tests for easing restrictions have been met, meaning he can lift some of them.

Mr Johnson set out the next steps for easing lockdown restrictions in regards to schools, retail and social contact.

Schools will reopen to more children from Monday, as the government previously announced.

Shops will also start to reopen, with outdoor markets and car showrooms opening on Monday, while more non-essential shops will open from June 15th, as long as they follow social distancing guidelines.

Groups of family and friends up to six people will be able to meet from Monday, in gardens and other private outdoor spaces, so long as people from other households observe social distancing.

Mr Johnson told the Downing Street briefing: “From Monday we will allow up to six people to meet outside provided those from different households continue strictly to observe social distancing rules – staying two metres apart.

“At the moment people can meet in parks but not in private gardens. There is no difference in the health risks, so we will now allow to meet in gardens and other private outdoor spaces.

“These changes mean that friends and family can start to meet their loved ones – perhaps seeing both parents at once or both grandparents at once.

“For many people I know this will be a long awaited and joyful moment.”

This means people can now see parents and grandparents. However, those who have been asked to shield must continue to do so.

According to the Prime Minister, transmission of the virus is much lower outside, which is why you’ll only be allowed to meet outdoors.