‘Data not dates’ on lockdown

The NHS is likely to remain "at full stretch" for at least another six weeks, says a leading health official as he warned against easing lockdown too quickly.

Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers – which represents NHS trusts – has written to the Prime Minister, calling for a focus on "data, not dates" over the Government's approach to the route out of lockdown.

He says the number of coronavirus infections needs to plummet to under 50,000 easing lockdown.

Mr Johnson has said he will aim to give target dates for restrictions being eased on Monday, but will delay plans if infection rates make it necessary.

In his letter, Mr Hopson said case numbers were "still far too high" and the health service remained "at full stretch".