It has not yet been confirmed whether business meetings for up to 30 people will be allowed to continue during the national lockdown in England, which is due to come into force on 5 November until 2 December.

The prime minister, Boris Johnson, announced on 31 October that only “essential” businesses would be permitted to stay open during the period. All “non-essential” retail, indoor and outdoor leisure facilities, entertainment venues and personal care facilities will remain closed. Hospitality venues, such as pubs and restaurants, will also close, save for offering a takeaway service, and hotels may only remain open for those travelling for essential business purposes.

The latest guidance from the Government does not specifically mention the sector, but it is highly likely business meetings will also not be permitted.

Conference News is working on getting 100% confirmation.

It comes as a major blow to the events industry, which according to latest findings presented to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, saw businesses experience an average 89.5% year on year fall in revenue in August.

In the meantime, we urge all parties involved in any booking scheduled during the lockdown period to work collaboratively to reschedule.

Chancellor of the exchequer Rishi Sunak has confirmed that the furlough scheme has been extended to 2 December.

Source: Conference News
Submitted by Martin Fullard

Image: 31/10/2020. London, United Kingdom. Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds a Covid-19 Press Conference with Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance and Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, in 10 Downing Street. Picture by Pippa Fowles / No 10 Downing Street