Coronavirus deaths in England and Wales remain low despite soaring cases, new data shows.
A further 109 Covid deaths have been recorded across England and Wales between June 26 and July 2, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures.
Although this is a slight increase on the week before, it is still a low figure when compared to the sharp spike in cases.
Over the same period more than 150,000 new Covid infections were recorded across the UK.
ONS data showed that the number of deaths recorded in the latest week in England and Wales was actually lower than the five-year average.
The new figures come less than a week before Boris Johnson drops almost all coronavirus restrictions on July 19.
This "big bang" approach will mean an end to compulsory face masks and social distancing.
The Prime Minister insists he is following the science, and hopes lifting restrictions on this date will stop us having to open up just as cases are surging into winter.
But after a summer where cases are predicted to hit 100,000 a day, Britain is facing one of the worst flu seasons on record, as lockdown and social distancing last winter reduced immunity.
However Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the vaccine programme would prevent a surge in deaths and hospitalisations.
He told the Commons: “We believe this wall means we can withstand a summer wave.
“And while the wall would be higher still if we waited until winter, we know the wave would be much more dangerous.
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“So while we know there are risks with any decision, this is the most responsible decision we can take.”
But Shadow Health Secretary Jon Ashworth warned the soaring case numbers and unlocking would lead to thousands suffering long Covid and a heightened risk of new variants developing.
He said: “He’s putting his foot down on the accelerator while throwing the seat belts off.”
Labour would back continued mandatory mask wearing, Mr Ashworth said.
As cases soar above 30,000 a day, the government will flood businesses and individuals with new voluntary “guidance” in what many will see as a screeching half-U-turn.
The most significant change is in high-risk crowded venues - which will now suddenly be “encouraged” to use Covid passports at just a few days’ notice.
Despite government guidance last week making clear ’Covid status certification’ would not be a legal requirement, it’s now emerged it will be advised for any “high-risk” venue.
