Casual sex could remain banned until at least June under Boris Johnson ’s roadmap out of lockdown.
The removal of restrictions on social contact with people from different households is unlikely to be on the table until step four - June 21 at the earliest.
And even then, the rules - which also prevent people hugging their grandparents, if they do not share a household or bubble - will be subject to a review.
The roadmap document, released today, reads: “Ahead of Step 4, as more is understood about the impact of vaccines on transmission and a far greater proportion of the population has been vaccinated, the Government will complete a review of social distancing measures and other long-term measures that have been put in place to limit transmission.
“The results of the review will help inform decisions on the timing and circumstances under which rules on 1m+ [social distancing], face masks and other measures may be lifted.”
Limited social mixing indoors will be permitted again from May 17 at the earliest.
Around this stage, ministers will review social distancing rules between friends and family, potentially allowing hugging to return for the first time since the first lockdown in March last year.
"As soon as possible, and no later than Step 3, the Government will update its advice on social distancing between friends and family, including hugging," the road map says.
"Until then, people should continue to keep their distance from anyone not in their household or support bubble, and keep up habits such as regular hand washing and letting in fresh air."
Some legal limits on social contact will stay in place until the fourth step, which will begin no earlier than June 21, with Mr Johnson having set four tests to progress between the stages.
