Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to hold a press briefing later today on whether July 19th "freedom day" will still go ahead.
The conference will take place today from within Downing Street's press room, with the PM leading the latest Covid-19 briefing update.
The next stage of easing was expected to be confirmed by Johnson today, however other reports have quoted him as saying that 'caution is absolutely vital.'
Whilst this next stage of lifting measures is seen by many as a further move towards normality and out of the pandemic, public opinion does appear to be split on whether now is the right time for easing to go ahead.
Much of the British public seem particularly keen to keep mask wearing. A recent You Gov poll found 71% felt face masks should continue to be mandatory on public transport, as well as in shops and some enclosed public spaces (66%) after the expected lifting of restrictions on 19th July, dubbed "freedom day" by some.
However, Johnson has continually hinted that the lifting of all remaining restrictions is "tantalisingly close" - which would see an end to the legal requirement to wear masks in England.
Boris Johnson will host a press conference this afternoon, while Health Secretary Sajid Javid will reveal the plans to Parliament in the House of Commons.
“While the phenomenal vaccine rollout has offered every adult some protection against the virus, and the crucial link between cases, hospitalisations and deaths is weakened, the global pandemic is not over yet," said the Prime Minister.
“Cases will rise as we unlock, so as we confirm our plans today, our message will be clear. Caution is absolutely vital, and we must all take responsibility so we don’t undo our progress, ensuring we continue to protect our NHS.”
What time is Boris Johnson's Covid press conference?
The Prime Minister has previously held his Covid briefings at 5pm from the Downing Street press briefing room.
The Prime Minister will host a press conference this afternoon, while the Health Secretary Sajid Javid is due to reveal the plans to Parliament.
What is he expected to say?
According to statements from Downing Street the decisions around unlocking are made based on four tests - the vaccine rollout's success, a reduction in hospital admissions and deaths, whether infection rates risk a surge in admissions, and whether any new variants of concern are likely to throw England's progress off track.
Boris Johnson was initially expected to announce that mask-wearing can be completely dropped, however in an apparent U-turn last Monday he said that it would be a personal choice to wear a face covering.
It is likely people in England will still be expected to wear masks indoors and in enclosed spaces, said Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi on Sunday.
News
Award-wining Leeds sandwich shop Silver’s Deli to open neighbourhood bakehouse
Silver's Deli is opening up a sister shop, and this time it's about everything baked.
We all know and love Silver's Deli for their stacked subs and breakfast sandwiches that could cure any hangover no matter how severe.
They're so good, that they even bagged the coveted Uber Eats Restaurant of the Year Award last year.
And rightly so, because Silver's is absolutely class.
And it seems there's just no stopping Silver's, as they've just announced that they'll be opening a sister shop named Silver's Bakehouse serving up everything, yep you guessed it, baked.
It'll also be in Farsley where the original Silver's is, and they're labelling the new venture as 'your neighbourhood bake shop'.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Silver's Deli said: "Well it’s happening. I said no more shops, but it’s kinda necessary, and I just love all things baked.
"There’s waaaaaaaaay too many details to share on this right now, but go give our sister shop @silvers_bakehouse a new follow and hold on tight. This is gonna be fun as fuck."
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Customers can expect a wider range of Silver's goodies that they're unable to whip up in the current space. From soft amaretti biscuits and their famous cookies to sausage rolls and brownies that the team have been working on for 12 months.
We're in no doubt that this venture is going to be absolutely brilliant, and you best believe we'll be first in line to try one of those brownies.
Silver's Bakehouse will be located on Town Street in Farsley and is expected to open this May.
Behind the doors of a former church that has been renovated into a beautiful home in North Yorkshire
Clementine Hall
Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside, Fell View Chapel dates all the way back to 1846.
Ever wanted to live in an abandoned church? Well, now's your chance.
This former Methodist Church dates all the way back to 1846 and has all the original features to match.
If you can look past the possible ghosts that may be lurking, this one-of-a-kind property can be yours for just £450,000.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
Step through the original church door and you'll be met by a striking open-plan living space with a fully functioning log burner to keep you warm through the winter months, complete with a beautiful contemporary kitchen which has been renovated to the highest spec.
The floating first floor features a glass landing that overlooks the ground floor below, and of course there's stunning stained glass windows throughout the property.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
This architectural conversion has taken five years to complete and there's been no expense spared, the pulpit and pews have even been kept to really keep that churchy vibe.
Here's what the listing says: "Welcome to The Old Methodist Church, originally built in 1846 and beautifully transformed over the past five years into a truly exceptional home.
"This remarkable conversion seamlessly blends contemporary living with the building’s historic charm, creating a residence that is both striking and deeply characterful.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
"Every detail has been tastefully and skilfully executed, carefully preserving original features while introducing modern design and comfort. The stained glass windows, original pulpit and pews remain as stunning focal points — a real marvel and a tribute to the building’s heritage."
Georgina Pellant -
12th July 2021 
