All UK Covid restrictions could be lifted by 21 June, says Johnson

​A four-stage plan could see all of England's coronavirus restrictions finally lifted by 21 June, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced.

In the first phase, all pupils in England's schools are expected to return to class from 8 March.   ​Socialising in parks and public spaces with one other person will also be permitted from that date.

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A further easing of restrictions will take place on 29 March when the school Easter holidays begin - with larger groups of up to six people or two households allowed to gather in parks and gardens.

Other measures in the road map set out by Mr Johnson include:

• From 12 April at the earliest: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues such as beer gardens will reopen.
• From 17 May at the earliest, two households or groups of up to six people will be allowed to mix indoors and limited crowds will be allowed at sporting events.
• From 21 June at the earliest, all remaining restrictions on social contact could be lifted, larger events can go ahead and nightclubs could finally reopen.

The devolved governments in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are working on their own plans to ease the lockdown rules over the coming months.

International travel rules will also be reviewed, with 17 May targeted as the earliest possible date for a foreign holiday.

A further piece of work to conclude by 21 June will examine social distancing requirements - including hugs with friends and relatives - the use of face masks and requirements to work from home.

​The measures are expected to be put to a Commons vote before the House rises for Easter in late March.

Labour Party leader Keir Starmer urged Mr Johnson to resist any pressure to lift restrictions more quickly.

He told the Commons: "I know the Prime Minister will come under pressure from those on his own benches to go faster and to throw caution to the wind.

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