Boris Johnson to Unveil England’s Post-Lockdown Tier Strategy
On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Boris Johnson will reveal the details of England’s return to the “three tier” Covid-19 system as the national lockdown ends on 2 December. The plan will bring tougher restrictions in some areas but offer much-needed relief elsewhere.
Pubs, Gyms, and Shops to Reopen—With a Twist
Pubs and restaurants will have a relaxed 10pm closing time, giving customers an extra hour to enjoy their drinks. However, pubs in the strictest tier three zones will only be allowed takeaway service, while tier two venues must serve substantial meals, even outdoors.
Gyms and non-essential shops, closed since 5 November, will reopen across all tiers. Notably, gyms—previously allowed to open in tier three—will continue to operate. The ban on outdoor grassroots sport is also set to be lifted, offering a welcome boost to community activities.
Mass Testing Meets Military Might in Tier Three Zones
Mass rapid testing, backed by military support as deployed in liverpool/" title="Liverpool" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Liverpool, will be rolled out in all tier three areas. Johnson will tell MPs this strategy aims to “help get the virus back under control and keep it there.” More regions are expected to be assigned higher tiers once the lockdown lifts, with full details due Thursday.
Vaccine Race Update and International Travel Setbacks
Meanwhile, US authorities hint Americans could start getting Covid vaccines as soon as 11 December. Dr Moncef Slaoui, head of the US vaccine programme Operation Warp Speed, confirmed vaccines will be distributed within 24 hours of approval. Pfizer and BioNTech’s shot, boasting a 95% efficacy rate and strong safety profile, leads the race. The FDA’s advisers will meet on 10 December to discuss emergency authorisation.
On the international front, a much-anticipated travel bubble between Hong Kong and Singapore has been delayed by at least two weeks, thanks to a spike in infections in Hong Kong. This postponement will hit tourism plans for both cities.
