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Britain to lift some COVID-19 restrictions on July 4

A cyclist is seen riding in London, Britain, on May 10. Beginning July 4, many British businesses will be allowed to reopen under updated distancing and capacity rules. File Photo by Will Oliver/EPA-EFE
A cyclist is seen riding in London, Britain, on May 10. Beginning July 4, many British businesses will be allowed to reopen under updated distancing and capacity rules. File Photo by Will Oliver/EPA-EFE

June 23 (UPI) -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Tuesday that numerous coronavirus restrictions will be eased beginning July 4, when many businesses will be allowed to reopen.

The British leader said churches, bars, restaurants, hotels, hairdressers and barbers will be allowed to open and distancing rules will be relaxed from 2 meters to 1 meter.

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"Where it is possible to keep two meters apart, people should," Johnson said. "But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one-meter plus, meaning they should remain one-meter apart while taking mitigating measures to reduce the risk of transmission."

Johnson said churches will be allowed to reopen for prayers, services and weddings with a maximum capacity of 30 people.

Campsites will be allowed to open if they regularly disinfect washing facilities and restrooms.

However, indoor facilities like gyms, bowling alleys, spas, casinos, tattoo parlors, swimming pools and water parks will remain closed.

Labor Party leader Keir Starmer welcomed Johnson's order, but said details for many areas have yet to be ironed out.

"There are obviously a number of questions that need to be answered," Starmer said. "I believe the government is trying to do the right thing and in that, we will support them."

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