PLAN B measures introduced before Christmas in a bid to slow the spread of the Omicron variant have been now been scrapped entirely.
The measures were approved before Christmas despite a sizable rebellion by Tory MPs over vaccine passports needed to enter large venues such as nightclubs with an expiry date of yesterday (Wednesday).
From today, mandatory face masks and Covid Passes will no longer be legally in force although some shops are continuing to ask customers to wear face masks for the time being.
Guidance asking people to work from home has already been lifted and face coverings were scrapped in classrooms last week.
The only regulations that will stay in place from today are those around self-isolation and travel testing.
Face coverings no longer legally required
Face coverings have been a legal requirement in most public spaces, including shops, shopping centres, salons, cinemas, places of worship and on public transport, since Plan B measures were introduced.
The government is advising that masks continue to be worn in confined public spaces though the power to fine those who do not has now been withdrawn.
“The government suggests that you continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet,” the latest guidance states.
Covid Passes now voluntary for venues
Large venues such as nightclubs and some gig venues have been legally required to ask for a Covid Pass as condition of entry as part of Plan B.
A Covid Pass, which can be accessed through the NHS app, proves that the customer is fully vaccinated or has recently tested negative for the virus.
Covid Passes will be longer be a legal requirement for venues from today. It is up to venues whether they decide to continue with the requirement, but there will be no legal obligation.
