“The Prime Minister, in a statement to the House of Commons today, outlined the government’s roadmap out of lockdown which will be led by data not dates and subjected to key tests. I know that many of my constituents are eager for life to return to normal and the Prime Minister has set out a path to achieve this. I welcome that a four step plan has been devised to start lifting restrictions from 8th March. The four steps are as follows:
Step 1
Children and students returning safely to education in schools and colleges from 8th March.
Step 2
The reopening of non-essential retail. No earlier than 12th April.
Step 3
Restrictions will begin to be lifted on seeing friends and family. No earlier than 17th May.
Step 4
The government is hopeful to be able to lift all legal limits on social contact. No earlier than 21st June.
I am in complete agreement with the government that this plan has to be guided by data and not dates and will be subjected to four key tests. Therefore, whilst the dates can provide an outline, they may be subject to change.
We need to continue to be cautious and vigilant when abiding by the rules as they stand. Only if we have a high level of compliance will we be able to keep reducing case rates and hospitalisations. ‘Hands, Face, Space’ is still the message. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my constituents for obeying by the rules that are in place. This has been a difficult time for everyone and the countless sacrifices that have been made cannot be underestimated. Covid 19 remains a very real danger to many people and unfortunately it will be a part of our lives for some time to come.”
Please find more details of the government’s plans at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-response-spring-2021.