Government’s ‘secret plans’ could see hospitality closed for New Years Eve, whilst trade body has warns of a ‘pseudo-lockdown’

It has been claimed that the government has a secret Omicron plan which could see pubs, bars and restaurant’s closed over the next few weeks.

It has been reported that Whitehall officials have prepared new measures which could include restrictions of how many people can attend a venue.

According to The Sun New Year’s Eve parties could be scrapped as Whitehall officials are preparing new measures for closures.

A source apparently told The Sun, “You will be able to see your family at Christmas, but at this rate, you might not be able to do it in a pub.

“As for New Year’s Eve, that is a different story.”

The Health Secretary Sajid Javid has said he is “not aware of any plans for further restrictions.”

The night time trade body has warned the government about pursuing a policy of a “pseudo-lockdown” in response to Omicron, where they will not mandate venue closures, but nevertheless with similar effects businesses’ ability to trade profitably.

“The trade body therefore argues the government must provide support commensurate with the signal being sent on reduced socialising.”

Michael Kill CEO The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) said, “It is now clear that the Government have left the sector facing 12 days of Christmas misery, with no mandatory restrictions on trade but still a significant drop off, just as the Prime Minister did initially back in March 2020 before he eventually forced a lockdown.

“Night time businesses are particularly reliant on the festive period to get them through the rest of winter, without this, the result is a threat to the very survival of thousands of businesses and jobs.”