More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
MP Natalie Elphicke has welcomed the roadmap out of lockdown.
She said there was a clear path to normality but warned people to stay on their guard as the pandemic continues.
The Dover and Deal MP said: “I welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement that after a long and challenging period, we finally have a clear path back to our day-to-day lives.
“The pandemic is by no means over and it is important to strike a careful balance as we reopen the country.
"But there is so much to look forward to over the coming months.
" Reuniting with friends and family members, reopening the economy, and coming together for a better summer is all now within reach."
Yesterday Prime Minister, Boris Johnson set out the details of the timeline for England’s exit from the coronavirus lockdown.
This will be in stages, beginning with the reopening of schools and the easing of some socialising restrictions on March 8.
From March 29 up to six people or two households can meet outdoors.
Fom April 12 non-essential shops, gyms and hairdressers can reopen and pubs and restaurants can serve outdoors.
From May 17 friends and family can meet indoors and indoor hospitality, including pubs, restaurants and cinemas can open again.
The government hopes to remove all limits on social contact on June 21.By then large events can go ahead and nightclubs can open.
"Coming together for a better summer is within reach." Natalie Elphicke
Mrs Elphicke said: “This has been made possible by our world-leading vaccination programme, which has gone out better than any of us could have dared to hope, with over 17 million doses administered so far.
"We are in the global leading pack in our vaccination programme and can now look to reopen and reboot our economy months ahead of many other countries.
The combination of this medical miracle and the diligence and resolve of the British people makes the gradual return to our day-to-day lives a reality.
“It is essential that children can continue their education as soon as possible and I welcome the excellent news that all children can return to school on March 8.
" I am in touch with headteachers across our area and will continue to support them as they make plans to reopen schools.
“The Prime Minister made it clear that the Government will continue to support businesses and livelihoods during the reopening.
"I have worked hard throughout the pandemic to ensure that individuals and businesses here in Dover and Deal have had access to the necessary support and I will continue to support them as we move through the stages."
The easing of restrictions come as infection and death rates continue to fall and the vaccination programme steamrolls on.
The country is in its third lockdown since Covid-19 erupted in full in the UK last March.
A total 4,134,639 people have been infected in this country over the last year and 121,305 people have died since the UK's first confirmed Covid death on January 30, 2020.
