Boris Johnson confirmed, at a press conference on Monday, that almost all coronavirus restrictions in England will be lifted next week, but warned that the reopening should not be treated as “a great jubilee.”
Social distancing will be dropped and Employers have been told to begin a “gradual return” to the workplace from Monday 19th of July, despite the rising number of cases of COVID-19 per day.
He warned that the final step of the government’s route out of restrictions “should not be taken as an invitation by everybody simply to have a great jubilee and freedom from any kind of caution or restraint.”
He added: “This is not the end of COVID. It requires constant vigilance. It means thinking about others as well as yourself.”
People will still be expected to wear masks in crowded indoor settings, such as public transport and shops, also in medical settings, such as hospital’s and GP surgeries, after the 19th of July under new government guidance.
Boris Johnson went on to say: “In order for this to be irreversible, it’s got to be cautious.”
Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, told the House of Commons earlier that the latest guidance advises a “gradual” return to the workplace over the summer, and for people to socialise outdoors where possible.
Nightclubs and other venues for mass events will be asked to demand proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test for attendees using the NHS app, in an apparent change of heart on domestic vaccine passports. Test and trace, self-isolation rules, and quarantine at the border will all remain in place as social contact limits are lifted.
