Mark Drakeford MS, First Minister
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 2) (Wales) Regulations 2020 place a series of restrictions on gatherings, the movement of people, and the operation of businesses, including closures. They require businesses, which are open to take reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus. They are designed to protect people from the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). .
We are still seeing a sharp and rapid increase in the number of cases across most of Wales.
Local restrictions are in place in 15 local authority areas and in Llanelli. A weekly review of these restrictions is required in the regulations. This week was the third review and we have concluded that no change should be made at this point.
It is encouraging however that cases continue to stabilise in a number of Local Health Protection Areas, notably in the Gwent area, which is down to the efforts of local people and means that we can now work with local authorities to agree the best approach to lifting the restrictions in a safe way.
While most people comply with the Regulations we need to make sure that we can respond effectively when a minority do not and put their and others’ health at risk.
This week we will also be strengthening local authority powers to restrict drinking in public areas. This will help local authorities stop people gathering and drinking in certain areas where there is a risk of coronavirus being transmitted.
Over the next two weeks, we will be clarifying the position on fixed penalty notices and whether there is a need to address specific issues like house parties and a failure to self-isolate.
We also want to support those who organise indoor activities and will be providing strengthened Regulations and guidance for them next week.
If we all continue to work together, we can protect ourselves and families and keep Wales safe.