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
Jacob Elordi says the sexiest thing about Yorkshire is ‘rocks and sheep’
As women around the world swoon over Jacob Elordi, he's too busy loving rocks and sheep.
In case you haven't been on social media over the past week and managed to avoid the influx of paparazzi images, the hotly anticipated 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation is out soon and with that comes heaps of red carpets, screenings and glamorous premieres.
Famously set against the brooding hills of Yorkshire, Wuthering Heights by our very own Emily Brontë follows the tumultuous love story of Heathcliff and Cathy.
Played in the upcoming film by Australian heartthrobs Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie.
During the recent London premiere where Elordi was seen wearing a rather dashing green three piece, the stars were asked what they thought the 'sexiest' thing about Yorkshire is by HitsRadioUK.
A valid question to which Jacob replies "rocks and sheep". I mean, he's got a fair point.
Margot Robbie went into a little more detail, she said "Sunrise and sunset in Yorkshire is a pretty dramatic experience. The sky is literally like red and orange. I honestly couldn't believe it when I was out there. The landscape is stunning."
Why thank you Margot, we absolutely agree. She continues to shower us with compliments stating that the "People are lovely. Pubs are great. I love it"
It seems like Margot has got Yorkshire pretty bang on there, and if she ever needs any pub recommendations then we'll absolutely help her out.
Jacob on the other hand, we know rocks and sheep are sexy but...have you ever met us?
Hopefully he fell in love with our county enough to come back, as we wouldn't mind bumping into him on a hike up the Yorkshire moors.
Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Clementine Hall
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
Georgina Pellant -
12th July 2021 
