BORIS Johnson is expected to make announcement regarding the next steps out of the Covid lockdown this afternoon.
It is believed the Prime Minister will address coronavirus passports and international travel in the announcement, which begins at 5pm.
He will be joined by England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance.
Mr Johnson is also expected to confirm that non-essential shops, hairdressers, and outdoor hospitality, including pub gardens, will be allowed to return from next Monday.
What is a “coronavirus passport”?
The Government is to begin trials to enable the safe return of crowds to mass gatherings including Wembley football cup finals and indoor events such as comedy clubs as it prepares to launch its so-called “vaccine passport”.
People attending a range of sporting events, conferences and clubs will be tested both before and after in the next step towards the easing of restrictions in England.
Covid Vaccine
What’s the latest on international travel?
Brits who have had both coronavirus vaccine doses could avoid quarantine measures under government plans to restart international travel, it has been reported.
It is expected Boris Johnson will signal today that foreign travel will return with restrictions based on a traffic light system that rates countries as red, amber or green based on Covid infection rates, vaccination levels and the prevalence of variants.
Hesitancy towards the vaccine across parts of mainland Europe may mean that traditionally favoured continental destinations among British holidaymakers are deemed more high-risk than the likes of the US and Israel, where vaccination rates are good.
Overseas holidays are currently banned due to the UK’s coronavirus lockdown measures, but Boris Johnson plans to make an announcement on Easter Monday about lifting restrictions in England.
What is expected to return from Monday?
Stage two of the government’s “roadmap out of lockdown” is due to come into effect next Monday.
From April 12, all shops will be allowed to open. As will close-contact services, including beauty salons and hairdressers.
A household will be allowed to take a holiday in England, providing it is in self-contained accommodation.
Weddings can be attended by up to 15 people.
Libraries, community centres, theme parks, zoos, spas and gyms will also be allowed to reopen their doors.
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