New COVID-19 restrictions come in effect in England

LONDON

A raft of new restrictions came into effect on Tuesday in England to stem the spread of the new omicron variant of coronavirus.

Face masks are now compulsory on transport and in shops, but not in hospitality. International travelers must take PCR tests by the second day after their arrival.

Some 10 countries in southern Africa are on the UK’s red list, meaning arrivals from these countries must pay to stay in hotel quarantine.

On Monday, the British government announced that the COVID-19 booster campaign would be extended to all adults aged 18 and over.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said previously that the measures will be reviewed after three weeks.

Johnson tweeted today: “The measures taking effect today are proportionate and responsible, and will buy us time in the face of this new variant.

“Vaccines and boosters remain our best line of defence, so it is more important than ever that people come forward when eligible to get boosted.”

Scottish Health Secretary Humza Yousaf on Tuesday morning announced that three more cases of the omicron variant have been confirmed in Scotland.

This brings the UK-wide cases of the omicron variant to 14.

Johnson will hold a COVID-19 news conference this afternoon.