Coronavirus: PM outlines lockdown easing for England

Coronavirus restrictions will ease further in England under plans for a "significant return to normality" by Christmas, Boris Johnson has said.

The prime minister said employers would have more discretion to bring staff back to workplaces if it was safe to do so. The PM added he was "hoping for the best and planning for the worst".

"It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November at the earliest - possibly in time for Christmas," he said.

But according to PM the plan "remains conditional" on the UK pulling together to win its "long fight" against Covid-19.

Devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have the power to set their own timings for the easing of restrictions.

In the announcement, Mr Johnson said that the government was making it clear to people in England they may use public transport now.

From 1 August, companies will have more discretion to bring staff back to workplaces if it is safe to do so, the PM explained.

He clarified that could mean "continuing to work from home, which is one way of working safely and which has worked for many employers and employees".

Also, from 1 August, Mr Johnson said most remaining leisure settings, such as bowling alleys, skating rinks and casinos, and close-contact services such as beauticians could resume.

However, soft play areas and nightclubs will remain closed beyond that date.

From October, he said fans could be able to return to stadiums for sports under the plan. The PM also said conferences and other events can recommence from that month, adding that "these changes must be done in a Covid-secure way, subject to the successful outcome of pilots".