The vaccination programme also appears to have stalled, and with the cold weather meaning more people will choose to socialise indoors at restaurants and bars rather than outside, Covid cases are expected to rise.

       The call to return to the office is also likely to lead to a rise in infections.

       The majority of people in hospital suffering from severe Covid are unvaccinated, prompting a push for as many people to get vaccinated as possible.

       However, Boris has said there is not need to deviate from 'plan A'.

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