The government on Tuesday announced a tightening of the rules for group gatherings, effective for the next 14 days.

The number of people allowed at wedding ceremonies at which no food or drink is served is reduced from 50 to 20. The same restriction applies to shareholder meetings of listed companies.

The exemption for local tour groups and religious gatherings was removed.

The government is also seeking approval from the Executive Council to increase the penalties for anyone who violates social distancing rules or the mask-wearing requirement, or refuses to take a Covid-19 test when ordered to do so.