ORDERING drinks at the bar could make a return as Prime Minister Boris Johnson considers ending the table service rule and social distancing when lockdown ends on June 21.
Ministers are reportedly discussing making the changes as Britain continues on the path towards freedom from Covid lockdowns next month.
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Nightclubs are expected to reopen in June while large events will be able to go ahead.
Results from the Cabinet Office’s review into social distancing measures as lockdown easing continues could be revealed this week, the Telegraph reported.
Boris Johnson reportedly told Conservative MPs that he is “hopeful” that the “one metre plus” social distancing rule will be dropped.
Hospitality bosses want the rule to be scrapped, saying that the current restrictions are harming their businesses.
Business minister Paul Scully reportedly told hospitality industry chiefs that the Government wants to allow punters to order drinks at the bar instead of through table service.
A Whitehall source reportedly said that a final decision on allowing drinkers to return to ordering beverages at bars has not yet been made, but will be part of the review into social distancing.
It comes as Britain smashed its 60 million jabs milestone, with a top medic saying the UK is “looking good” for lockdown ending on June 21.
Dr Jenny Harries, chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, confirmed it’s “looking good if people are continuing to observe all of the safety signals” for the final stage of the roadmap.
And Dr Harries was backed by Home Secretary Priti Patel who said: “The data is positive in terms of where we are – look at the vaccine information that has been published today about the level of protection against specific variants.”
But the Home Secretary warned some mask-wearing would continue.
They are likely to be binned in shops, pubs and workplaces — but will continue on trains and buses.
Ms Patel cautioned that there would not be a “green light all the way” to unlocking restrictions.
She said: “We all have to be conscientious. All of us that are out and about now, we are distancing, wearing masks, following all the rules.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock described yesterday as a “huge day” for the vaccine effort as the total number of jabs given out hit 60,587,098.
He tweeted: “This is a fantastic milestone in our fight against this virus.
“Thank you to everyone involved in our national effort. When you get the call, get the jab.”
He also said in a statement: “Our trailblazing vaccination programme – the biggest and most successful in NHS history – is another great British success story and a testament to what can be achieved when all four corners of country comes together to defeat this virus.
“Our country has one of the highest uptake rates in the world and I’m delighted that so many have answered our call to arms. If you have not yet come forward, and you are eligible, I urge you to take up the offer – it could save your life and protect your loved ones.”
