Douglas Ross says restrictions haven't reduced covid numbers

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Self-isolation rules have now been reduced to five days for those without symptoms of coronavirus. But self-isolation laws could soon be scrapped altogether in England as Boris Johnson wants to move towards accepting that we live with coronavirus than keeping barriers in place.

It comes after the threat of the Omicron variant was not as high as anticipated, with deaths being no way near close to the peaks seen this time last year.

The Omicron variant, which has caused widespread infection but considerably fewer fatalities than the Delta variant of last winter, is considered a milder form of the disease.

It also shows the virus is losing its potency, as widespread vaccine uptake in the UK prevents the majority of people from getting seriously ill.

The Prime Minister has made clear that an approach of “learning to live with Covid” must be adopted, given scientists say the virus will never disappear completely.

READ MORE: Covid rules change TODAY as ministers eye ripping up more restrictions

Will self-isolation be scrapped?

Plans are being drawn up by Downing Street to repeal emergency coronavirus laws that have been in place for almost two years.

It would mean there would be no legal requirement to self-isolate after coming into contact with a positive coronavirus contact, or if you are infected with the virus yourself.

Instead of official rules, guidance would remain in place to encourage people to behave in certain ways.

See the latest Covid vaccine stats below and visit InYourArea for all the Covid vaccine latest

Not adhering to this guidance would not result in a fine or legal punishment.

A senior government source said: “Lots of legal requirements were put in place during the pandemic.

“As we come into a stage where things are more manageable and those legal restrictions may no longer be necessary, we will look to remove them promptly from the statute book.

“The Prime Minister is obviously determined to get back to normal as soon as we can.”

DON’T MISS
Millions left without post last week due to Royal Mail staff shortages [INSIGHT]
Plan B restrictions could be lifted ‘within days’ after promising data [REPORT]
Omicron symptoms: The 3 unusual signs of Covid infection [ANALYSIS]

When will self-isolation be scrapped?

An announcement could come as early as Spring, and plans will be finalised in the coming weeks.

Repealing the emergency coronavirus laws that came into British life in March 2020 would also mean face masks are no longer mandatory.

Plan B measures are expected to change on January 26, the review date set by the Prime Minister last month.

It means the requirement for coronavirus passports for large events and nightclubs will be abandoned.

Working from home guidance will also change – but face masks are likely to stay beyond the end of this month.

Labour has also come up with its own 10 point plans for living with Covid, and shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “We’re not out of the woods with Covid-19.

”The virus will change and adapt and we need to learn to live well with it.

“For the Government, living with Covid is just an empty slogan with no plan.

“For some of the fanatics on the Conservative back benches, living with Covid means letting the virus rip. Both positions are highly irresponsible.”

Source: Read Full Article