Government confirms all restrictions will end next week

The government has just confirmed that all remaining Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted next week on July 19th.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid – who replaced Matt Hancock last month – says lifting restrictions on July 19th is the ‘most responsible decision we can take,’ though he did add that it is ‘not the end of the road’ but the ‘start of a new phase of continued caution while we live with the virus and we manage the risks.’

He said, as per the BBC: “We simply cannot eradicate this virus, whether we like it or not. It is not going away.”

Chatham House / Flickr

The health secretary went on to say the government has looked closely at the data ‘and we firmly believe this is the right time to get our nation closer to normal life.’

He said that England will definitely be moving to the next stage of the roadmap on July 19th, stating: “To those who say why take this step now, I say if not now then when.”

This comes just a week after Prime Minister Boris Johnson first announced that the original ‘freedom day’ on June 21st would be pushed back to July 19th.

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In the announcement, he revealed that as of the 19th, people won’t be expected to work from home and that all businesses will be allowed to reopen, including nightclubs and music venues.

While no proof of a Covid test or vaccine will be required for entry to venues, Johnson explained that the virus will still be monitored through the track and trace app, and those who test positive will still have to self isolate.

However, while many rejoiced at the news, others are concerned that it could be too soon to lift restrictions – Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham today urged people to continue wearing face masks and following social distancing in public spaces and on public transport.