Boris Johnson needs to level with the public on lockdown - The Yorkshire Post says

On the one hand, he must address the public’s desire to be freed from the restrictions on their personal and working lives, yet on the other he cannot risk a wholesale lifting of curbs that might spark an upsurge in infections.

It seems likely that the Prime Minister will opt for a cautious approach, especially given the experience of freeing the country from previous restrictions too early, which have not only resulted in a tragic new wave of deaths but led Britain back into economically-damaging lockdowns.

The Prime Minister will want to avoid repeating either of those outcomes. He and his ministers insist that this time they will be guided by data, and not dates, for reopening Britain and experience tells us that is surely the correct approach, however frustrating that might seem to millions yearning for a return to some sort of normality.

Transparency about the science and frankness with the public should both be at the forefront of Mr Johnson’s mind when he addresses the nation.

The public needs to be kept on side if coronavirus is to be beaten. Over-promising and then under-delivering, of which Mr Johnson has been guilty in the past, simply will not do.

Britain will accept that there needs to be a gradual exit from lockdown provided Mr Johnson demonstrates his plan is backed by the science and presents a realistic timetable.

There is every reason to be optimistic that we are winning the battle against Covid.

The vaccination programme is going exceptionally well, and children are likely to be back in school within weeks. It is Mr Johnson’s task to convince the country that a cautious approach will guarantee victory.