The Government has this afternoon announced measures restricting the opening times of bars, restaurants and cafeterias and the consumption of alcohol in public places.

A statement just out continued: “Gibraltar is currently experiencing a spike in COVID-19 cases, with over 100 new active cases detected in the last 5 days. In order to flatten the curve, with the festive season now upon us, the following measures have immediate effect as from today:

- Restaurants and bars will close every evening at 7pm. Last orders must be taken by 6pm. Those serving food will be able to open for takeaways as they do currently. Only hotel guests will be able to be served in hotel restaurants.

- No alcohol is to be consumed in public places after 7pm on any day.

- On the 24th December, Christmas Eve, no alcohol consumption will be permitted in public
places after 4pm.

“Given the expected increase in people in Main Street it is important to be careful when shopping. Please remember the importance of social distancing. When out shopping, maintain a safe 2 metre distance from others, wear a mask where you have to and wash your hands often.”

The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: ‘It is extremely difficult for us to have to announce these new measures today, particularly as we enter the final week leading up to the holidays. However, we must do everything we can to protect our elderly and our medical resources as a result of the current spike in active COVID-19 cases in our community. Please, do your own bit to help. Consider who you plan to meet up with over the holidays and keep your social contacts to a minimum. It is particularly important to avoid mixing bubbles and to avoid contact between younger generations and those who are elderly. It is up to all of us to be responsible and to do all we can to flatten the curve.’