Covid-19: Lifting of England’s lockdown delayed, and new common coronavirus symptoms

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed a four-week delay to the final lifting of England’s restrictions. Remaining measures were due to be lifted in a week’s time on 21 June, but concern over the more transmissible Delta variant has prompted a delay until 19 July. At a No 10 briefing, the PM said it was a “very difficult choice” but it was “sensible” to wait a little longer. “I’m confident that we will not need more than four weeks,” he said – adding there would be a review after two weeks and the government “reserved the possibility” of lifting restrictions earlier. For weddings the current limit of 30 guests will be lifted on 21 June but a number of restrictions will remain, including social distancing requirements and no indoor dance floors.