Hugging family and friends to be allowed from next week as Boris Johnson to set out May 17 restrictions lifting

HUGGING family and friends will be allowed from next week when the next set of restrictions lift.

Boris Johnson will set out the rules tomorrow during a Downing Street press conference and Brits will be told to use their “common sense”, according to reports.

At the moment anyone who doesn’t live together is advised to keep at least 1.5 metres away from others to stop the spread of the virus.

But, as first revealed by Trending In The News it’s expected that people will be told they can finally hug their close friends and family again – but social distancing rules will be expected to stay for others.

Brits will be told they can decide on their own levels of risk “for their own circumstances” and take decisions into their own hands after months of advice from ministers about what to do.

Number 10 sources have told The Telegraph Mr Johnson is likely to tell the public tomorrow that everyone should use their “personal judgement” and their “common sense” when it comes to hugging friends and family after May 17.

It is thought that the PM will also confirm changes to the restrictions surrounding care home residents.

They are now allowed to go on trips to a family members garden or a park without having to self-isolate for 14 days when they return.

And he will announce that while funerals can have up to 30 mourners, the restrictions for weddings will remain the same.

From May 17, people will finally be able to meet their loved ones inside their homes again.

It means groups of six or fewer – or two households – will be allowed to meet indoors.

Domestic overnight stays will also be given the thumbs up from this date – but people should still social distance from people they don’t live with.

The last relaxation of rules in April gave the thumbs up to pubs and restaurants opening up – but only for service outside.

But from next week they will be able to fling their doors back open and welcome customers back inside.

Venues will be allowed to provide table service only, with the rule of six in place for indoors diners and drinkers.

And the rule of six for outdoor gatherings will be extended to the rule of 30 from May 17.

Meanwhile Leisure facilities such as cinemas, bingo halls, and theatres will be given the green light to reopen.

And indoor sports such as badminton will be permitted once again, and some gym classes will be able to resume.