Mr Johnson said his approach would be driven by “data not dates”, with the five-week gap between stages allowing time for the impact on infections to be determined and for companies to get ready. Progress on the next steps out of lockdown will depend on meeting four tests: the success of the vaccine rollout, evidence of vaccine efficacy, an assessment of new variants, and keeping infection rates below a level that could put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.
1. March 8
All schools and colleges will reopen. University students can return for practical courses and there will be a review by the end of the Easter holidays for all other students. Photo: PA
2. March 8
People can meet one other person outside for recreation, which can include a coffee on a bench. The current rules state you should only meet one other person for exercise.
3. March 29
People will be allowed to meet outside either with one other household or within the "rule of six", including in private gardens. The stay at home rule is dropped but people should still minimise movement as much as possible.
4. March 29
Outdoor sport facilities will reopen, including tennis and basketball courts.
5. From April 12 at the earliest
All retail allowed to open, but wider social contact rules will continue to apply in all settings - meaning no indoor mixing between different households will be allowed.
