Lloyd Webber ‘prepared to be arrested’ to reopen theatres

Andrew Lloyd Webber has been cautioned to "abide by the rules" after claiming he will reopen his theatres without social distancing later this month regardless of the restrictions.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said after repeated questioning that he was "not going to get into speculation" about whether Lloyd Webber would be arrested if he contravenes Government guidance, which he has said he is prepared to do.

"We all have to abide by the rules," Jenrick said.

DCMS Committee Chair Julian Knight said Lloyd Webber's comments show how frustrated the live events industry is, "though clearly I wouldn't support anyone breaking the law".

"With the 21 June reopening on a knife edge, the Government needs to be absolutely upfront about the results of its pilot events and how they feed into decision-making."

An announcement on whether restrictions will be relaxed further on June 21 is expected next week.