Boris Johnson has confirmed the earliest possible date pubs, restaurants and the rest of the hospitality industry can start to reopen after lockdown.
Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon, the Prime Minister laid out his “roadmap” out of lockdown, including when we can expect to see bars, restaurants and pubs open their doors again.
The Prime Minister has confirmed that the roadmap's first two priorities will be the reopening of schools and safely reuniting loved ones.
Outdoor activities are also expected to begin from March 8, while the hospitality industry is expected to begin its reopening from April 12, though this will be outdoors only.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that once bars, pubs and restaurants reopen there will be no curfew in place and no need for alcohol to be accompanied by a 'substantial meal'.
Pubs, bars and restaurants are expected to reopen fully from May 17. However, these dates are subject to change depending on the data meeting England's "four tests".
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The four tests for easing measures include the success of the vaccine rollout, evidence of vaccine efficacy, new variants and infection rates will be assessed by ministers before proceeding to the next step.
Restrictions will be eased step-by-step across the whole of England at the same time due to the current uniform spread of the virus.
There will be a five week gap between the lifting of restrictions.
The Prime Minister is expected to host a press conference at 7pm following the roadmap being revealed.
You can follow our live coverage of Boris Johnson's announcements here.
