No more Covid restrictions before New Year, Boris Johnson confirms

Boris Johnson has ruled today that there will be no new Covid restrictions implemented before the new year.

The Prime Minister’s decision means nightclubs and mass events can continue to go ahead for the rest of the week, but people will be urged to take a test before seeing those who are vulnerable.

According to reports by The Guardian, No 10 held a virtual briefing with England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty and the government’s chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, where it was concluded that data would continue to be reviewed but that no new steps would be taken before the new year.

Sky News

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Of course we look at the data on a daily basis, that hasn’t changed over the Christmas period, but there will be no further measures before the New Year.

“We won’t be taking any further measures. Of course, people should remain cautious as we approach New Year’s celebrations, and you know, take a lateral flow test if that makes sense.

“Celebrate outside if you can, have some ventilation indoors if you can, please remain cautious.

“And when we get into the New Year, of course, we will see then whether we do need to take any further measures – but nothing more until then at least.”

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This makes England the only country in the United Kingdom to not enforce any further restrictions across the festive period, with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all bringing in a series of Covid rules.

Wales has restricted groups to a maximum of six people in pubs, cinemas and restaurants, as well as other restrictions on numbers for larger events. Nightclubs have also been forced to close.

In Scotland, up to three households can meet, with one-metre distancing between groups at indoor and outdoor venues such as bars, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and gyms.

And, in Northern Ireland, limiting socialising to three households has been recommended, while up to six people can meet in pubs, bars and restaurants. Nightclubs have also been closed.