SAJID Javid will today – Monday, June 28 – deliver his first update on Covid-19 since taking over from Matt Hancock as Health Secretary.
Here is when and where you can watch the Health Secretary's announcement and what he is expected to say.
🔵 Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest updates
What time is Sajid Javid'S Covid speech today, Monday, June 28?
Sajid Javid was set to speak about the easing of coronavirus restrictions at 3.30pm on Monday 28 June.
But was pushed back to around 5.30pm to give time for two urgent questions in the Commons.
Viewers will be able to tune in on TV and online.
What is Sajid Javid expected to announce?
Sajid Javid is set to give his first Commons speech since rejoining the Cabinet at around 5:30pm, with ending Covid curbs his “immediate priority”.
Sajid Javid is not expected to announce that restrictions in England will be lifted early.
The Health Secretaryhas previously said he wants to get back to normal "as soon as possible".
But he isn't expected to lift lockdown earlier than the planned date of July 19, although he is reportedly "extremely reluctant" to extend measures.
A Cabinet minister said Mr Javid's appointment "nails on July 19".Â
This would mean Mr Johnson ruling out an early lockdown lift, instead announcing the lifting of most, or all, restrictions from this date.
So from next month there could be no face masks, social distancing and all other legal requirements dropped – although the PM will likely highlight that it will be down to personal preference and many may choose to continue to wear face coverings, for example.
Ministers have promised to give one week's notice to any change of restrictions.
The Health Secretary is also likely to provide an update on the UK's stonking vaccination roll-out – a huge factor in Covid decision-making.
The new Health Secretary has vowed to get Britain back to normal "as soon and quickly as possible" after taking over from disgraced predecessor Matt Hancock.
Next Monday – July 5 – is the earliest date when remaining restrictions could be lifted, with the government needing to give notice today of any changes.
The former Chancellor is expected to announce that the target remains July 19.
Speaking outside his new office yesterday, Mr Javid said: “We are still in a pandemic and I want to see that come to an end as soon as possible.
“That will be my most immediate priority to see that we can return to normal as soon and quickly as possible.”Â
While it is not expected he will bring what is left of lockdown to a close any earlier than July 19, he is reported to be confident the measures will not extend past that date.
As well as the pandemic, Mr Javid has a myriad of issues to deal with such as upcoming NHS reforms, the backlog patients are facing for treatment, and a long-expected social care plan.
He will also face questions over NHS pay and staff burnout, as British Medical Association (BMA) council chairman Dr Chaand Nagpaul warned he faces a "baptism of fire".
Mr Javid said he is aware of the "huge responsibility" of the job.
How can I watch the Covid announcement live?
You can visit our coronavirus blog, which will also provide you with the latest Covid updates.
It will also be broadcast on TV.
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