Powers relating to events, gatherings and premises
90 The provisions give the Secretary of State the power to prohibit or restrict events and gatherings, and to close premises, if the public health situation deems it necessary. This streamlines existing legislation in England and Wales, to ensure that powers to prevent events or gatherings can be deployed as quickly as possible in the event this is justified by the evidence. It also extends the power to Scotland and Northern Ireland too, where there is no equivalent legislation.
91 This can be deployed if, having had regard to the relevant advice, such a prohibition or restriction would:
a. prevent, protect against or control the incidence or transmission of coronavirus, or
b. facilitate the most appropriate deployment of medical or emergency personnel and resources.