The United Kingdom government is considering delaying the planned lifting of all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in England, scheduled for June 21, amid a surge in new coronavirus cases. Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Sunday that officials are prepared to postpone the final step out of lockdown ‘if that’s what needs to happen.’
The June 21 date marks the fourth and final phase in England’s roadmap out of lockdown, a plan that has progressively eased restrictions since March. This stage would see the removal of all legal limits on social contact, allowing large events and reopening nightclubs for the first time in over a year.
However, recent data has raised concerns about proceeding as planned. Over the past week, the UK has recorded more than 31,000 new COVID-19 cases, a 46 percent increase compared to the previous week. The surge is attributed primarily to the Delta variant, first identified in India, which is believed to be more transmissible than previous strains.
‘We said in the roadmap that June 21 is the date by which we would not take the final step until—we would be able to take the final step no earlier than that,’ Hancock told the BBC. ‘We are absolutely open to doing that if that’s what needs to happen.’
Despite the rapid rollout of vaccines—with over 40 million people in the UK having received at least one dose—the rise in cases has prompted caution. While vaccinations have significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization and death, officials are monitoring whether the increase in infections will lead to a surge in severe cases.
The potential delay has significant implications for businesses, particularly in the hospitality and entertainment sectors, which have been among the hardest hit by the pandemic. Investors and market analysts are closely watching the government’s decisions, as they will impact economic recovery plans.
Academics and health experts are also weighing in, emphasizing the importance of a data-driven approach. The situation underscores the delicate balance between reopening economies and safeguarding public health—a challenge faced by governments worldwide.
The final decision on whether to proceed with lifting restrictions on June 21 is expected to be made in the coming days, as officials analyze the latest data on infection rates, hospitalizations, and vaccine efficacy against new variants.
Reference(s):
England's Covid-19 restrictions could be extended: UK health minister
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