As Omicron infections rise rapidly, Boris Johnson has reportedly been presented with a number of options for further restrictions in England.
The Prime Minister is under mounting pressure to act after Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland will all see stricter measures as early as Boxing Day.
But senior government sources have said no announcement will be made until December 27 at the earliest, according to the Mirror.
READ MORE: Symptom differences between Omicron, Delta, a cold and the flu
The PM is believed to be weighing up several options, including advising people to limit their contacts - particularly indoors - but without making it a legal requirement.
Another option is reportedly introducing mandatory limits on household mixing.
Government insiders have suggested a return to Step 2 of the covid roadmap - so similar restrictions to those in place last April - could be on the cards.
If these measures are implemented it will mean indoor household mixing is banned, and pubs and restaurants will only be allowed to serve customers outside.
This could be done as part of a so-called “circuit breaker” lockdown, lasting for up to four weeks.
All non-essential shops, hairdressers and beauty salons would be allowed to remain open, but those who can work from home would be instructed to do so.
People would be allowed to meet outdoors in groups of six people - or two households.
A ban on large events such as football matches and concerts has also reportedly been discussed.
The UK going into another full lockdown has not been ruled out, but this would only be considered if scientific evidence suggests the NHS is very likely to be overwhelmed and boosters are less effective than experts think.
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