MID Worcestershire's MP has called the latest loosening of lockdown measures a "signal that we are well on our way to recovery".

On Tuesday Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the two metre rule was being eased with a 'one metre plus' rule in place and pubs, restaurants, hotels, places of worship and hairdressers could reopen.

And the PM also said theatres, cinemas, libraries, museums, theme parks and zoos could open their doors to the public from July 4.

Nigel Huddleston said the latest announcement had came after weeks of "slowly loosening up restrictions", while "carefully monitoring the R rate". The Covid-19 threat level was reduced from level 4 to level 3 last week with the government saying it was confident a second peak would not overwhelm the NHS.

Mr Huddleston, who is also a minister for tourism, said “Hospitality and leisure were hit the hardest by the stringent measures put in place three months ago.

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"I’m delighted that hotels, pubs and restaurants will be able to open their doors again this summer. These sectors sustain more than three million jobs in the UK including thousands in my own constituency.

"Having worked closely with these sectors over the last few weeks I know they take their responsibility to open safely very seriously and will be following strict guidance procedures that will provide reassurance to staff and customers alike.

"The announcement was a signal we are well on our way to recovery. It’s heartening it will now be easier for people to see more of their friends and families and we will see people’s businesses and livelihoods able to open up once again.”