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Written question asked by Catherine West (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 February 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 February 2021. It was answered by Penny Mordaunt (Conservative) on Thursday, 25 March 2021 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Sports: Coronavirus

Question

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will publish the scientific advice for the decision to close outdoor sports facilities during the covid-19 lockdown announced in January 2021 and keep children's playgrounds open.

Answer

Throughout the pandemic, we have consistently adapted our response as we have learnt more about the virus and how best to tackle it. Decisions on when to lift restrictions, and in which order, seek to strike a balance between the epidemiological evidence and advice, the impact lockdown is having on people’s health (including mental health and disproportionate impacts on certain groups), wellbeing, and the economy. Scientific evidence supporting the government response to coronavirus is regularly published here - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/scientific-evidence-supporting-the-government-response-to-coronavirus-covid-19.

On 22 February the Government published its 'COVID-19 Response - Spring 2021'

roadmap to recovery. The roadmap outlines four steps for cautiously easing restrictions across England. The first measures of Step 1 took place on the 8th March. Schools breaking up for the Easter holidays will provide an opportunity for further, limited relaxation particularly in outdoor settings where there is less risk. Therefore from 29 March, outdoor sports and leisure facilities will reopen and organised sport (for adults and children) will resume.

The design of the roadmap has been informed by the latest scientific evidence and seeks a balance between our key social and economic priorities, whilst preserving the health and safety of our country.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
151788
Session
2019-21
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Disease control Facilities Playgrounds Sports Coronavirus
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk