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Britain's two-metre social distancing rule is based on no evidence, leading scientists have claimed amid mounting calls to drop the measure
by Demetra Crayton (2020-10-25)
Britain's two-metre social distancing rule is based on no evidence, leading scientists have claimed amid mounting calls to drop the measure.
Two University of Oxford experts argue there is little proof to support the restriction, after reviewing a World Health Organisation paper on the contentious topic.
Of 38 studies, only one looked specifically at coronavirus infections in relation to a specific distancing measure of two metres — and it found it had no effect.
The pair of scientists claimed the evidence in favour of the two-metre rule is of 'poor quality' and impacting Britain's chance to go about normal daily life.
A senior statistician at the University of Dundee also found the data for two-metre guidelines — which informed experts at the WHO — is flawed.Â
It comes as Tory MPs and the hospitality sector have begged Boris Johnson to make an urgent decision on whether to ease the social distancing rule.
The Prime Minister confirmed at the weekend that he had ordered a 'comprehensive' review of the measure, in light of dwindling infection rates.Â
Results are not due until at least July 4 — the date when pubs, restaurants and salons are expected to open, giving businesses no time to prepare for changes.
Other scientists say ministers are balancing public health with the economy, and the infection rate across the UK is still too high to relax the rule.
Professors at the Middle East University of Oxford said there is little evidence to support the restriction after reviewing 172 studies on the topic.
Pictured, a poster warning to stay two metres away on the London UndergroundÂ
The pair of scientists said the evidence in favour of the two-metre rule is of 'poor quality' and is impacting our ability to go about daily life.
RELATED ARTICLESPictured: A social distancing sign is seen on the first day of reopening for places of worship, June 15Â
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