Boris Johnson is reportedly considering a return to "step two" covid restrictions after Christmas.
The Prime Minister remains under pressure to reveal how the government proposes to curb the spread of the Omicron variant.
It comes as cases of the new strain reached 45,145 across the UK on Monday.
READ MORE: Boris Johnson's next announcement date as PM 'considers banning indoor mixing'
On December, 20, Deputy PM Dominic Raab confirmed that 12 people have died after contracting the highly infectious Omicron variant, the Mirror Online reports.
Boris Johnson ruled out immediately implementing new coronavirus restrictions following a lengthy cabinet meeting on Monday.
But he warned data is being monitored "hour-by-hour" and the government would introduce new measures if necessary.
Officials are reported to be drawing up plans for a two week circuit breaker lockdown after Christmas, which could see a return to so-called Step 2 restrictions in England.
Here we take a look at what these restrictions would look like.
What are the key rules and restrictions within Step 2
The government guidance, from earlier in 2021, outlines the 16 key measures that were put in place for Step 2.
The idea of Step 2 was first established in April 2021 as part of the roadmap out of lockdown as things opened up again. Now it is being considered as an option again as the UK takes baby steps towards tougher measures amid rising Omicron cases.
These are just some of the measures that could come make a return, along with exactly what they previously entailed.
Support bubbles and staying indoors
Step 2 would see a return to social bubbles. This means you must not socialise indoors except with your household support bubble.
You are allowed to meet outdoors in places like gardens or parks in groups of six people, known as 'the rule of six', but only two households can meet.
Shielding does not make a return
Those who are classed as clinically extremely vulnerable people will not be required to shield.
However, they should continue to take extra precautions and minimise social contact with others as much as they can for their own protection.
Retail remains open
There will be no change to retail shops, non-essential or otherwise.
Masks are already required and retail outlets, like nail salons and hairdressers, will not have to close.
Restaurants, bars and pubs continue to stay open with exceptions
Under Step 2, we would see a return to a ban on socialising indoors. Plus, visits to a pub, restaurant or any other form of hospitality will see people seated outside the establishment.
Holidays come to an end
Strict rules on travelling abroad could be in place under Step 2. You must not travel abroad, a £5,000 fine could be awaiting upon your return if you travel abroad without a legally permitted reason.
Weddings and funerals continue with restrictions
Restrictions on weddings and funerals will be put back into place. A maximum of 30 people will be allowed as the attendees of a funeral, while weddings may only allow 15 guests.
Other commemorative events, like wakes, will only be allowed 15 people as well
The 10 other restrictions and guidelines in place under Covid Step 2
The other 10 key guidelines that the government shared as part of its Step 2 Covid messaging in April 2021 are:
- Domestic overnight stays are allowed, but you must only stay with members of your household or support bubble.
- Early years, schools and colleges are open to every student. Practical university courses will remain open, but any theory may be taught via video link. Students and staff should be tested regularly.
- People should continue to work from home if they are not already and can.
- Campsites and 'self-contained accommodation' will remain open, but hotels hostels and bed and breakfasts will be closed.
- Gyms can remain open, as can other indoor sports facilities and spas. Saunas and steam rooms within these premises will be closed.
- Outdoor entertainment places like zoos can be visited by a group of six or up to two households and the same applies to drive-in events. Indoor entertainment venues like theatres and cinemas are to be shut.
- Libraries and community centres are to remain open.
- Those who live in a care home are allowed two regular (and named) indoor visitors.
- Domestic travel should be kept to a minimum.
- Places of worship will be open and communal worship is allowed, but you must not mix with those outside your bubble.
How likely is Covid Step 2 and when might it happen?
The Mirror's political editor Pippa Crerar tweeted: "Hearing that Boris Johnson is considering going back to step 2 restrictions from Dec 27 - so POST Christmas - for a month to help curb infections.
"Big caveat is that Govt scientists want him to act now - while some in Cabinet worried about further restrictions even later."
It is now looking more likely that restrictions will be in place from December 28.
The restrictions are believed to be in place for around a month, but this would depend on if cases continue to dramatically rise.
Dominic Raab was unable to confirm that further measures in the form of Step 2 would not be put in place.
He said: "Well, I just can't make hard and fast guarantees."
