Dowden outlines lockdown measures for culture and sports events

With England and Scotland commencing a period of full lockdown today, 5 January, Oliver Dowden (pictured), the secretary of state for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has clarified what the impact of the lockdown will be on sports and cultural events.

He said for the arts/creative sector, “You should work from home unless you can’t – exemptions include for training and rehearsal of performances, recording studios and film & TV production. Outdoor heritage sites and gardens can stay open for exercise.

“Professional sport behind closed doors can continue as a place of work. Other sports activity regrettably must be paused.”

Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove said the chancellor will, later today, outline additional support measures for businesses.

While delivering a keynote speech at the Major Events Summit on 2 December, Dowden, said he expected a return to normality for the events industry by Easter.