Prime Minister sets out autumn and winter Covid plan

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has set out the government’s plan to manage coronavirus infections throughout autumn and winter.

In England, the number of hospital admissions with Covid has remained relatively stable over the last month. Johnson said that, over autumn and winter, the government will aim to sustain this progress through: building our defences through pharmaceutical interventions; identifying and isolating positive cases to limit transmission; supporting the NHS and social care; and advising people on how to protect themselves and others.

All those who were vaccinated during Phase 1 of the vaccine programme (priority groups 1 to 9) will be offered booster jabs from this month – to boost immunity amongst the most vulnerable groups during winter.

Lateral flow tests will also remain free of charge but at a later stage, as our response to the virus changes, this will end and individuals and businesses will be expected to bear the cost.

Under the banner of Plan B measures, the government will consider introducing mandatory vaccine only Covid status certification in certain, riskier settings, as well as legally mandating face coverings in certain settings, such as public transport and shops.

The government could also consider asking people to work from home again if necessary, but a final decision on this would be made at the time, dependent on the latest data – recognising the extra disruption this causes to individuals and businesses.