Tougher pandemic measures could be brought in to stem the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, reports have suggested, as ministers debate how to tackle the rising number of infections. The BBC reported the advisers had recommended moving to restrictions seen in step one and two of the easing of lockdown restrictions in the spring. The Times reported that draft regulations were being prepared which could ban meeting others indoors except for work purposes, and that pubs and restaurants would be limited to outdoor service only, for two weeks after Christmas. We have no economy without health.”The UK reported more than 90,000 new Covid cases in another record daily total on Friday. Meanwhile, the UK’s devolved administrations have ramped up their demands for more financial support as Omicron cases continue to fuel infection rates.

Source: The Times December 18, 2021 00:39 UTC