Boris Johnson, Set To Ease UK's Rules, Says Pandemic Not Over Yet

Last week, Boris Johnson set out proposals to eliminate rules on mask-wearing and social contact, and the instruction to work from home where possible, on what he has called a "one-way road to freedom". He will announce his final decision at a news conference on Monday afternoon.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will urge caution on Monday as he confirms plans to remove nearly all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in England from July 19, despite a surge in cases to the highest levels in months. Last week, Johnson set out proposals to eliminate rules on mask-wearing and social contact, and the instruction to work from home where possible, on what he has called a "one-way road to freedom". He will announce his final decision at a news conference on Monday afternoon. "The global pandemic is not over yet," he said in a statement released late on Sunday. "Cases will rise as we unlock, so as we confirm our plans today, our message will be clear. Caution is absolutely vital, and we must all take responsibility so we don't undo our progress."