New Year’s Eve plans in England have been given the green light, as Sajid Javid confirmed the government will not be imposing any further restrictions before the New Year.
The health secretary said people should “remain cautious” when taking part in New Year’s celebrations – and take a lateral flow test before attending events.
Javid did not rule out the possibility of further measures being taken in January, adding that the government “will see” whether the data suggests they are needed.
The decision comes as the latest figures show England reported a record number of new cases on Christmas Day.
Javid said: “Of course, we look at the data on a daily basis, that hasn’t changed over the Christmas period, but there will be no further measures before the New Year.
“We won’t be taking any further measures. Of course, people should remain cautious as we approach New Year’s celebrations, and you know, take a lateral flow test if that makes sense.
“Celebrate outside if you can, have some ventilation indoors if you can, please remain cautious.
“And when we get into the New Year, of course, we will see then whether we do need to take any further measures – but nothing more until then at least.”
