Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a press conference this evening (Monday 5 July) as the government prepares to lift remaining lockdown measures in England in two weeks’ time.
The PM is expected to address rules surrounding social distancing, face masks and working from home – which have all been subject to speculation over the previous few weeks.
According to new reports, Johnson will discuss making face coverings optional on public transport, whilst removing table service requirements at bars/restaurants and allowing festivals/nightclubs to return.
Working from home is likely to be left up to firms.
Johnson said Monday’s update would “set out how we can restore people’s freedoms when we reach step four”, before adding that the “pandemic is not over and that cases will continue to rise over the coming weeks.”
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Boris Johnson to announce 👇🏼 😷 face-masks optional on transport 💻 working from home up to firms 🍺 drinking at the bar not table service 💃🏻mass events like festivals back on But still unresolved 👇🏼 💉double jabbed to quarantine? 👩🏽🎓school bubbles scrapped? (In England)
National restrictions have been in force in England since early January, having been gradually eased over a period of months.
The government had originally planned to remove all COVID-19 measures in June, but were forced to delay the reopening date to July 19 as the Delta variant of the virus pushed up cases nationwide.
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Nonetheless, ministers have repeatedly claimed the country is on track to lift more curbs later this month – although it remains unclear whether all will be permanently removed in a fortnight. Tonight’s press conference is expected to provide some insight as to what steps the government will take.
On Sunday, Housing Minister Robert Jenrick claimed that wearing masks is set to become a “personal choice” for people in England.
However, Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said a “rethink” on this rule would be required, as it would put certain people in an “unfair position”.
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The Mayor stated: “I struggle to see how Ministers can drop the requirement to wear masks on public transport without causing real problems for some people who are dependent on it.”
I struggle to see how Ministers can drop the requirement to wear masks on public transport without causing real problems for some people who are dependent on it.
Those more vulnerable to infection or anxious about it will be put in a very unfair position.
The hospitality sector, in particular, is eager for updates on legislation surrounding table service, social distancing and scanning QR codes.
Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester Sacha Lord said that the removal of such measures would be a “huge sigh of relief” for the sector.
The PM is expected to address the press tonight at 5pm.
Featured image: No 10 / Flickr
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A Christmas train in Wigan has been delivering donated toys galore
Thomas Melia
Yuletide wishes have come true as a donation of toys and goodies have been delivered via a Christmas train in Wigan, right in time for the big day.
The Amazon toy train, which is a new initiative running this festive season, is dropping off presents from now right up until Christmas day itself.
Already visiting Wigan earlier this month, the locomotive has its sites set on three more stops including London, Swansea and Scotland as it makes its journey across three nations.
In partnership with Multibank’s Brick-by-Brick project, the train hopes to provide and offer gifts to families in need across the UK with Wigan marking the closest stop off in Greater Manchester.
Credit: Lee Boswell (supplied)
All the toys that are being transported across the country in this Amazon-fronted train are featured on the company’s ‘Top Ten Toys 2024’ list.
Hatchimals, Screamerz and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza were some of the exciting gifts found on the Christmas train in Wigan at the start of this month.
This lighthearted and fun-filled Christmas-themed project is kitted out with toys from top brands like Play-Doh and the brickmasters themselves, LEGO Star Wars.
So far, Multibank has helped over 400,000 families and provided three million essential items across their operations in England, Scotland and Wales since launching in 2022.
This collaborative local project doesn’t just operate at Christmastime either: Brick-to-Brick Multibank run all year round collecting surplus business requirements like furniture, hot water bottles and hygiene products to be used by those less fortunate.
The Christmas train in Wigan filled with Amazon’s top toys.The Wigan toy train features some well known brands.Credit: Supplied
This roster of children’s favourite companions and interactive games is inspired by the consumers themselves. Every toy is related to or the exact match of what Amazon customers have been searching for the most. A real Christmas list come true.
The list of the top toys isn’t extortionate either, offering customers some affordable and still as fascinating options with prices starting from £9.99.
Even old-school classics like Play-Doh have a spot on this wish list. This poses the really big question: where’s the adult version?
You may have finished your Christmas shopping not too long ago or might still be looking for inspiration, browse the top-ranked teddies and more HERE.
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford, as police hunt ‘answers’
Daisy Jackson
Floral tributes have begun to pile up outside the Salford park where the remains of a baby were found earlier this week.
The child, who is being called Baby A, was discovered near Ashtons Field on Wednesday 20 November.
Their identity is not yet known, and police are trying to determine ‘who this baby could be, how long they have been here, and how they have sadly died’.
In an update shared last night, GMP said their investigation was continuing and the force will do ‘everything we can to get answers’.
They also shared images of cuddly toys, flowers and letters that have been left at the snowy scene by officers and by the local community.
In the latest update, GMP said: “Our investigation continues after the remains of a young baby were tragically found in Little Hulton yesterday.
“The thoughts of everyone at Greater Manchester Police are with Baby A, and we will do everything we can to get answers.
“We would like to thank the community for their tributes to Baby A and their support and compassion at this time. We are truly grateful.”
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford. Credit: GMP
GMP are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward so they can ‘find answers for this baby’.
Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood said: “Even the most minor detail could be crucial to our investigation. If you have seen anyone in the area over the last few days, or know who the parents could be, please call us as soon as you can.
“As soon as we are in a position to confirm further details about the circumstances, we will do so.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 1319 of 20/11/24. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The Manc -
5th July 2021 
