Boris Johnson, the British prime minister, announced that nearly all pandemic measures would be eased in England on 19 July, although the final green light would only be given on 12 July.

Although admitting “this pandemic is far from over”, Johnson said individuals should rely on their own judgement on how to stay safe, reported 

The move means that wearing face masks and social distancing will no longer be required, and entertainment venues will be able to operate at maximum capacity, per 

Government guidance that employees should work from home, if they can, will likewise be lifted, meaning workers are expected to start returning to the office, reported the 

Several scientists and the opposition Labour party said the government should exercise more caution, 

Johnson said restrictions might have to be reintroduced in the winter and that he himself would “continue to wear a mask in crowded situations,” the 

The rest of the UK--Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales--will also scale back restrictions, “but more slowly,” according to 

Most covid restrictions in England are expected to end in two weeks’ time.