U.K. Is Easing Covid Rules, Bringing Businesses Fresh Concerns

Industry lobbies cautiously welcome July 19 relaxation rules
But picture emerging is one of trepidation and some skepticism

A social distancing sign outside a book stall in Guildhall Market in Bath, U.K., on July 5.Photographer: Chris J. Ratcliffe/Bloomberg

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Alex Morales and Emily Ashton

July 6, 2021 at 4:00 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Businesses have been been clamoring for the government to finally reopen the U.K. economy. Now that face masks and social distancing will be all but dropped, they have a new set of worries.

Industry groups, big and small, largely welcomed U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s much-anticipated plan to ease Covid-19 restrictions on July 19. But there was also a healthy dollop of skepticism. Yes, it’s good news for many pubs and night clubs -- but there is also the issue of liability surrounding infections in the workplace.