(Image: ExpressStar)But, in a ruling on Monday, Mr Justice Lewis refused permission for a full hearing of the challenge. Mr Havers argued that the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 are "still unlawful and disproportionate" and "still far from being the least restrictive steps available to the Government". The Government opposed the claim and argued that Mr Dolan's case was not open to legal challenge. In court papers, Government lawyers argued that lockdown measures have been taken to protect the public and save lives, and that the situation has changed since Mr Dolan's claim was first issued. In his ruling, Mr Justice Lewis noted that the rules in force as of the day of the hearing - July 2 - "did involve a restriction on the freedom of assembly and association".

Source: Daily Mirror July 06, 2020 14:34 UTC