No further restrictions in England before Christmas, PM confirms

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that there will be no further restrictions in England before Christmas.

Speaking in a video message, Mr Johnson said: "There is no doubt that Omicron continues to surge with a speed unlike anything we’ve seen before.

"The situation remains extremely difficult but I also recognise that people have been waiting to hear whether their Christmas plans are going to be affected.

I wanted to confirm that people can go ahead with their Christmas plans.

But we’re keeping a constant eye on the data and can’t rule out any further measures after Christmas.

Please continue to be cautious, follow the guidance and Get Boosted Now: https://t.co/VKGvuQ4lzq pic.twitter.com/506RPwP94h

— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) December 21, 2021

"What I can say tonight, is that naturally we can’t rule out any further measures after Christmas - and we’re going to keep a constant eye on the data, and we’ll do whatever it takes to protect public health."

"But, in view of the continuing uncertainty about several things - the severity of Omicron, uncertainty about the hospitalisation rates or the impact of the vaccine rollout and the boosters - we don't think today that there is enough evidence to justify any tougher measures before Christmas.

The PM has urged the public to be cautious over the festive period, he added: "I would urge everyone to exercise caution, to keep protecting yourselves and your loved ones - especially the vulnerable - and remember to keep following the guidance."

"We continue to monitor Omicron very closely and if the situation deteriorates we will be ready to take action if needed.

A further 90,629 coronavirus cases have been reported in the UK, according to the daily figures.

15,363 of those cases relate to the Omicron variant. 

There were a further 172 deaths within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test.

897,979 booster doses were given in the latest 24 hour period, the second-highest figure on record.