The UK government has decided to close all cinemas in the Tier 3 without providing substantial evidence how their closure will prevent the spread of COVID-19.

During Newsnight (26th November 2020), the argument presented for keeping gyms open across all tiers is that they account for 'only 1 in every 100,000 visits [and] so the impact is very light and limited.' Cinemas account for zero cases. Not a single outbreak of COVID-19 anywhere in the world can be traced back to a cinema, multiplex or public screening venue. So, can we apply this argument to keep our cinemas that so desperately need Christmas trade open too?

Analysis conducted by trade bodies and health organisations, such as the Hermann-Rietschel-Instituts der Technischen Universitat and the University of California, found cinemas represent a relatively low risk of transmission in comparison to that of travelling on public transport, going to the shops, and public singing - all of which will be allowed. (see Celluloid Junkie)

It is worth noting that following Cineworld Cinemas' decision to close their doors our own Prime Minister in October encouraged the public to return to cinemas. (see Boris Johnson encourages support of cinemas)

So, what has changed?, and what scientific evidence was provided to justify this decision? Would the government agree this was just to simply bring cinemas in line with other indoor venues and catering businesses and not based on scientific fact? The UK Cinema Association representing the interests of over 90 per cent of UK cinema operators has strongly criticised the government's change of mind. Their response to an online question about what rationale was offered for shuttering businesses that haven't been responsible for a single outbreak was: 'Answer to date[,] there is none.' This amounts to being unfairly treated by a government office.

Cinemas are controlled COVID-secure environments that like gymnasiums provide vital support for mental health, strengthen the sense of community and belonging, and promote engagement for STEM subjects, which in turn brings prosperity, improved physical health, and boosts the economy. Cinema is a lifeline for many too. We have heard so many calling in to radio stations over lockdown stating cinema has supported their depression, anxiety, and helped them through traumatic times in their lives, to keep them feeling connected and safe in their community. This government is denying this for so many while also putting jobs and livelihoods at risk unnecessarily without providing evidence to support their decisions.

It is down to the incredible resilience of all cinema staff and their dedication to providing clean welcoming foyers and thoroughly sanitised auditoriums that the majority of cinemagoers who have returned since July have felt safe. With cinemas COVID secure, allow us the public to make an informed choice if we feel ready to return - the government has made no reasonable case for why it has changed its mind and its intervention in closing cinemas.

So, let's keep cinemas open in Tier 3. They are safe. They are COVID secure.

Update 28/11/2020: The cabinet office has released evidence supporting the closure of hospitality businesses. This paper makes no direct or indirect reference to cinemas and actually presents evidence as to why cinemas should not be subjected to closures in Tier 3. We are well ventilated, spacious environments without face-to-face contact and involves no 'loud activities' (the audience sits socially distanced, facing one direction, and in silence).