Boris Johnson to reveal roadmap out of lockdown today: Prime Minister confirms first restrictions will be lifted on March 8

By Dan Windham
Published 22nd Feb 2021, 07:16 BST
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Boris Johnson will unveil his roadmap out of lockdown to the nation in a Downing Street press conference at 7pm on Monday.

Schools, socialising and some sports are set to return next month under the Government’s plan to relax coronavirus lockdown restrictions in England.

It is understood that Prime Minister Boris Johnson will tell MPs that all pupils in all years can go back to the classroom from March 8, with outdoor after-school sports and activities allowed to restart as well.

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Socialising in parks and public spaces with one other person will also be permitted in a fortnight when the rules are relaxed to allow people to sit down for a drink or picnic.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson drinks water during a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on coronavirus (COVID-19).Prime Minister Boris Johnson drinks water during a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on coronavirus (COVID-19).
Prime Minister Boris Johnson drinks water during a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on coronavirus (COVID-19).

A further easing of restrictions will take place on March 29 when the school Easter holidays begin – with larger groups allowed to gather in parks and gardens.

The “rule of six” will return along with new measures allowing two households totalling more than six people to meet – giving greater flexibility for families and friends.

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts are also set to reopen at the end of next month.

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And organised adult and children’s sport – including grassroots football – can return from March 29.

However, Number 10 insisted that the “stay at home” message would remain in place despite the relaxation of some restrictions.

The measures form the first of four steps in the road map which the Prime Minister is set to outline in a statement to the Commons on Monday afternoon.