10/05/2021
The four Chief Medical officers within the UK have agreed to lower the COVID-19 alert level to 3 from 4, meaning the virus is in general circulation but not rising.
"Thanks to the efforts of the UK public in social distancing and the impact we are starting to see from the vaccination programme, case numbers, deaths and Covid hospital pressures have fallen consistently," they said in a statement.
"However Covid is still circulating with people catching and spreading the virus every day so we all need to continue to be vigilant. This remains a major pandemic globally."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to hold a briefing at 5pm today, where he is expected to outline a relaxation of pandemic rules.
These are expected to include:
• Hugs to be allowed, albeit briefly
• Gatherings of up to 30 peopleoutdoors
• Gatherings of six people or two households indoors
• People will to be allowed to stay overnight
• Pubs, restaurants to fully open for indoors and outdoors
• Other hospitality, such as cinemas and soft play, to reopen indoors