Scientific advice ‘remains unchanged’ on 1 metre distancing in NI but will be kept ‘under constant review’ - Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride

During the daily briefing he acknowledged there has been much discussion and debate around 1m and 2m social distancing.

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 of the current guidance on two metres”.

He added that the executive has been clear that they will “keep this under constant review”, especially when we see rates of Covid-19 fall in the community.

Health Minister Robin Swann said the executive has yet to take a decision on the reduction of social distancing guidelines.

Earlier, Prime Minister Boris Johnson told MPs that England would move to a ‘1m+’ rule in settings where 2m distancing is not possible from 4 July.

Mr Swann said “it was an announcement for England” and Stormont ministers will take a decision appropriate for Northern Ireland when they meet on Thursday.

“Social distancing is a crucial tool in our fight against Covid-19,” he added.

Earlier DUP Westminster leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson urged the prime minister Boris Johnson to share information relating to the latest lockdown easing in England with the Stormont Executive.

He made the call this afternoon in the House of Commons after the PM reduced the 2 metre safe distancing rule in England to 1 metre.

“Will the prime minister commit to share the rationale, data, evidence and advice upon which these decisions are based with the NI executive, our chief medical officer and chief scientific adviser to ensure we continue to have this co-ordinated approach?,” he asked Boris Johnson.

The PM did not confirm he would but said: “We’ll continue to work together, as we have done throughout, to share information.”

First Minister Arlene Foster on Twitter today said: “Very significant announcement. I was speaking with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster @michaelgove 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”.

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