At the end of November with the news that large events would once more be permitted, things were looking a little brighter for the meetings and events industry. However with December’s tightening of restrictions and the majority of the UK placed in Tier 4, and now another national lockdown, the short -term future for events is once more a little uncertain.

We thought it would be useful to outline what this means for meetings and events across the UK.

The Government has confirmed that only essential business events can take place across England.

Only business events for work, training or education purposes are permitted, with the added stipulation that they may only run if they cannot be delayed or conducted online. Under the latest government guidance, people must stay at home, and work remotely unless they are unable to do so.

The latest adjustment to the rules has been introduced to allow key workers and essential services, such as the National Health Service, to operate.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s guidance for business events reads “Large business events such as conferences, exhibitions and trade shows are not permitted, this includes drive-in events.”

“Business meetings for work, training or education purposes can still take place but only where the event cannot be delayed, or delivered on-line and if social distancing can be maintained and the venue can demonstrate it has followed Covid-19 guidance.”

“Event spaces, including in conference centres and exhibition halls, can be used for permitted reasons only , to provide socially beneficial public services such as Nightingale hospitals or food banks.

“Conference centres and exhibition halls should remain closed for conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, private dining or banqueting.”

Any permitted business event should adhere to Covid-secure guidance, such as ensuring adequate track and trace measures, maintaining social distancing, the wearing of masks, and follow hygiene measures.

Business events must not contain social networking elements such as receptions, and private dining and banqueting events remain prohibited.

For full details check the The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) Visitor Economy Guidance for business events in Tier 4 areas reads: