AS Omicron cases continue to rise, Ministers are currently debating how to tackle the spread of the new variant with apparently a two-week circuit breaker lockdown being considered.
While reports of a post-Christmas lockdown begin to emerge, these are the type of tougher measures we could expect.
Read more: Reports suggest post-Christmas lockdown as Omicron continues to spread
Boris Johnson was presented with several options that fall under "Plan C" on Friday, December 17, The Financial Times has reported.
The Plan C measures range from “mild guidance to nudge people, right through to lockdown”.
Boris Johnson speaking outside Number 10. Credit: PA
What could Plan C look be?
We are not sure what "Plan C" measures could look like and there's no definite confirmation whether or not there will be another lockdown.
England is currently under Plan B restrictions.
These were drawn up as an aid to slow down any surge of Covid-19 infection and were voted through on Tuesday, December 14.
The Plan B restrictions which include expanding mandatory mask-wearing and the use of Covid passes to enter nightclubs and large venues prompted a Tory rebellion.
But with the reports that a two-week circuit breaker lockdown is being considered, it looks like measures are going to get much tougher.
The possible plan C measures include:
- a ban on indoor mixing and indoor hospitality
- a ban on meeting others indoors except for work purposes
- Pubs and restaurants may also be limited to outdoor service or takeaway only
- Weddings would be limited to 15 guests
- Funerals would be limited to 30 guests
- further guidance to encourage people to stay at home
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated Darlington Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here