The possibility of re-introducing Step 2 restrictions to tackle to the spread of the new Omicron variant are being reportedly discussed by the Prime Minister.
The national reports come as experts continue to raise concerns over the rapid spread of the variant and the impact it could have on the NHS.
It is understood Covid restrictions could be on the way but so far there has been no indication new measures will be implemented ahead of Christmas.
The Step 2 guidelines, which were implemented last year as the country was eased out of lockdown, say: "You must not socialise indoors except with your household or support bubble.
"You can meet outdoors, including in gardens, in groups of six people or two households."
This would mean indoor social meetings are no longer permitted.
One of the key changes will be to the hospitality sector, where pubs and restaurants will require outside use only and sitting inside will no longer be allowed.
The Mirror's political editor Pippa Crera 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."
The Times is also reporting that further restrictions are unlikely to be imposed before Christmas.
According to The Times a government source said: “The data isn’t there yet to justify further restrictions. There’s still so much that we don’t know about the severity of the variant and the extent to which vaccination and boosters sever the link between cases and hospitalisations.”
It is now looking more likely that restrictions will be in place from December 28.
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