Boris Johnson is easing more lockdown rules, this time allowing those vulnerable to coronavirus who are shielding to leave home and go outdoors.
The change will coincide with other rules being eased on Monday and comes despite a backlash from leading scientists who claim the government is moving too soon.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has accused the prime minister of making difficult decisions more risky because of his mistakes over the past week.
The latest relaxation of lockdown rules will allow 2.2 million at-risk people shielding in England to go outside with members of their household, while continuing to follow the two-metre rule.
Those who live alone can meet outside with one other person from another household, according to the new rules.
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People who are shielding are classed as extremely clinically vulnerable and include some cancer patients, organ transplant recipients and those with severe respiratory conditions.
The government claims the change will provide a much-needed boost to those most at risk who have been staying inside their homes to protect themselves and the NHS.
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This includes many who have not had any face-to-face contact since they were first advised to shield.
Announcing the latest easing of the rules, Mr Johnson thanked those who have shielded and praised their "sacrifice".
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"I do not underestimate just how difficult it has been for you, staying at home for the last 10 weeks, and I want to pay tribute to your resilience," he said.
The change comes at the same time as groups of six people will be able to meet outdoors, either in public spaces or in gardens, provided they observe the two-metre rule.
Both changes come on the day the government hopes many children will return to school, despite fierce opposition from teachers' unions and some parents.
Urging parents to send their children back to school, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson writes in The Sun on Sunday: "It's only natural for people to feel nervous about sending their kids back to school.
"That's why this first step back is such a cautious one – and it's not one that we make lightly."
England's deputy chief medical officer, Professor Jonathan Van Tam, urged restraint ahead of the easing of lockdown rules.
"I believe this is also a very dangerous moment. We have to get this right," he said.
And he warned the public: "Don't tear the pants out of it, Read More – Source
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