Health leaders have warned against the premature relaxation of pandemic restrictions in England, suggesting that plans to clear record NHS waiting lists could be at risk, and challenged ministers to disclose the scientific basis for their “living with Covid” strategy.
A poll of more than 300 senior NHS leaders by the NHS Confederation, which represents health organisations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, found more than eight out of 10 opposed an end to free lateral flow tests, a move being considered by the government. Even more, 94 per cent, wanted free access to LFTs retained for key workers.
Boris Johnson, prime minister, this month proposed the abolition of the legal requirement to self-isolate in England after a positive Covid-19 test. However, more than three-quarters of respondents to the confederation survey rejected the idea, which Johnson suggested could come into force in late February.