Diane Dodds urges Executive to cut social distancing rules after Boris Johnson eases restrictions in England

The development came after Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed the two-metre rule would be dropped in England in favour of a “one-metre-plus” approach.

Mrs Dodds has for some time favoured a relaxation of social distancing in Northern Ireland and wasted no time in contacting other ministers after the PM’s announcement.

She told MLAs: “I indicated we too should formally review the social distancing advice. At one metre our restaurants, hotels and coffee shops are more viable.

“We want our hospitality and tourism industries to be sustained and sustainable and we need to make sure the provision is there for them to do that, of course in a way that is safe.”

It came as First Minister Arlene Foster said the Executive should “consider the science” behind lowering the two-metre social distancing rule to one metre.

Posting on Twitter, Mrs Foster said: “Very significant announcement. I was speaking with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster [Michael Gove] in advance of this announcement.

“Important for NI Executive to consider the science of this decision. Glad HMG will share it. From 2-1m is transformational for many sectors.”

Health Minister Robin Swann sounded a more cautious note during today’s daily ministerial briefing on Covid-19.

When asked about Boris Johnson’s announcement he said: “I do think it is a significant announcement but I think the prime minister made it clear that it was an announcement for England.

“The Executive will meet again on Thursday. As I’ve said at this podium many times, that will be a decision for the Executive to take. Our medical advice and guidance will remain as it is.

“We still believe that social distancing is a crucial tool in our fight against Covid-19. Our recommendation still remains at two metres. We will discuss further with the Executive on Thursday.”

Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride has said the scientific advice “remains unchanged” in relation to the social distancing guidelines in Northern Ireland.

He said: “Ministers will take on board many policy considerations in those finely balanced decisions, as to the health impact on reducing socially distancing verses the economic consequences.”

Mr Johnson said the government “can now make life easier” for people in England to see more of their friends and family, get businesses back on their feet and get people back into jobs.

He said that with extra measures, such as installing screens and washing hands, this can be done safely.

He listed a number of places that can reopen, such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, campsites, places of worship, bars, pubs and bingo halls.