Coronavirus: Easing of Lockdown restrictions postponed to ensure more people have second dose of vaccine

Coronavirus restrictions will remain in place for a further four weeks, the Prime Minister has announced. 

England was due to move to Step 4 of the Government’s roadmap out of the third Lockdown on Monday 21 June 2021, when venues and events would be allowed to operate without capacity limits and indoor gatherings would no longer be limited to six people or two households.

But many scientists have called for the reopening to be delayed to allow more people to get the vaccine and ensure the most vulnerable have had two doses. 

It is thought that at the current rate of vaccination, over four weeks, an extra 10 million second doses could be given. 

Shropshire Council’s director of public health, Rachel Robinson, said:

With the rates rising across the country, I think being cautious is the right approach at this time. 

The delay will enable more people to get the vaccine which is vitally important. We know that you are less likely to become seriously ill with COVID-19 after you have had the vaccine and the second dose gives even better protection against the Delta variant, so if you have not yet booked yours, I urge you to do it as soon as possible. 

It will also give scientists time to monitor the Delta variant which is now dominant in all areas. It is at least 60% more transmissible than the previous dominant Alpha which forced the UK into the third Lockdown in January. 

Please keep testing twice a week and take up the vaccine when it is offered, but also keep following the hands-face-space-fresh air guidance to stop the spread.

The announcement comes after new data shows the rate of new COVID-19 cases is at its highest level in three months. 

A total of 37,729 new cases were recorded in England in the seven days to 9 June 2021, according to Public Health England. 

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for public health, said:

The data appears to show that a single dose of the vaccine is not as effective against the Delta variant, so it makes sense to pause further easing of restrictions at this time to ensure more people have had the opportunity to get a second dose – especially those in the at-risk groups.

Step 4 is now expected to be implemented on Monday 19 July. 

The extension will be reviewed regularly to see if action can be taken two weeks sooner on Monday 5 July.

Further information  

• If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or a positive test result please do not leave your home and self-isolate immediately. For more guidance click here  
• People without symptoms of COVID-19 should test twice a week – find out more here  
• The NHS will contact you when your vaccination is ready or to find out if you are already eligible click here  
• Indoor gatherings are limited to 6 people or 2 households  
• Face masks should be worn in indoor settings unless you are exempt  
• Remain cautious when meeting with people outside your bubble  
• Follow the hands-face-space-fresh air guidance  
• Continue to work from home if you can  
• You should continue to follow the guidance even if you have been vaccinated.