Three tier lockdown: new Covid rules after national England restrictions end on 2 December explained - and latest update on Christmas

England will return to a revised three tier Covid alert system when the national lockdown ends on 2 December, Boris Johnson confirmed on 23 November.

The prime minister, speaking via video link to the House of Commons, announced that gyms and shops can reopen and remain open once restrictions around the second lockdown expire.

Announcing his winter coronavirus plan, Mr Johnson warned the virus is still widespread in many areas across the country and that restrictions were still required to combat Covid.

The three tier approach, which was replaced by a national lockdown on 5 November, will need to be tougher to help limit the spread of coronavirus, Mr Johnson added.

What is the new tiered system?

Mr Johnson, addressing the Commons, has kept the three tier approach used before lockdown from 2 December, amid reports of a fourth tier being implemented.

The PM gave an example of the new tier restrictions, stating people were encouraged to work from home in tier one, that alcohol can only be served as part of a substantial meal in tier two and hospitality would have to close except for delivery and takeaway in tier three.

The Rule of Six will come back into force, meaning a person living in a tier one area can socialise with a maximum of five other people indoors or outdoors.

This is restricted to only outdoors in tier two and is not permitted in either indoor or outdoor settings in tier three, though still allowed in some outdoor areas such as parks.

The new, tougher tier system would “carry us safely to spring”, Mr Johnson said.

Can pubs reopen?

Yes - though the restrictions vary through the tiers.