England tightens virus rules as cases mount

Social gatherings of more than six people will be banned from September 14 and fined if they fail to comply – with some exemptions – amid concern at rising infection rates, particularly among young people.

The number of cases in Britain has begun to rise sharply again in recent days. Although testing is more widespread and the number of people in hospital is well below the peak of the outbreak, ministers fear it is beginning to slip out of control.

British government also unveiled a new public information campaign entitled "Hands. Face. Space", to emphasize the importance of hand washing, face coverings and social distancing.

"We need to act now to stop the virus spreading," the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, ahead of a press conference on Wednesday where he will explain the changes.

The previous limit on the number of people who could socialize together was 30.