LBC Views: Plan B restrictions clearly have not been thought out
10 December 2021, 11:40
In a bid to slow down the spread of Omicron, the new Covid variant, the Government has announced the implementation of its ‘Plan B’ this week.
Listen to this article
Loading audio...
But the new restrictions clearly have not been thought out as can been seen from the major contradictions in the plan.
For example, from Monday 13th December Boris has said “you should work from home – if you can”. Yet, work Christmas parties are still allowed and in fact, in his words “should still go ahead”.
Read more: PM brings back work from home guidance and more face mask rules in 'Plan B' Covid measures
So you shouldn’t sit next your colleagues in the office, but its acceptable to drink and dance next to them in a party environment.
A contradiction or a convenient concession to help sweep the No.10 2020 Christmas party saga under the carpet?
Read more: Minister: People can work at pub with pals but not the office - under 'crazy' Plan B rules
From Wednesday 15th December you will need an NHS Covid Pass, showing your vaccination status or a recent negative lateral flow test - to gain entry to nightclubs, indoor unseated venues with more than 500 people, unseated outdoor venues with more than 4,000 people and any venue with more than 10,000 people (such as a football stadium).
As well as the issue of discriminating against those who have not been vaccinated, the lack of detail provided with this rule is already causing great concern for consumers.
Read more: Un-masked singer: New rules to ensure shoppers wear face masks after 'ludicrous' loophole
What happens if you have a Christmas party or other function booked at a night club but you are not vaccinated? Will you be entitled to a refund?
What if you exclusively hire the venue for your work – will the rule still apply just because it’s a ‘nightclub?
What if your work hires a local venue (not a nightclub) for your Christmas party and puts on a disco?
How about those consumers who have tickets for concerts or sporting events but are not vaccinated – can they seek a refund?
The Government needs to urgently clarify all these matters by providing far more detail around the rules.
I will be discussing consumers rights in these situations on the LBC Consumer Hour, Friday at 9pm.
