The jobs that went back to work TODAY after Boris Johnson eases lockdown rules

Boris Johnson has played down suggestions there could be a "sudden big flood" of people heading back to work as he set out the Government's "road map" for easing the coronavirus lockdown.

The Prime Minister said the measures - including encouraging those in England who were unable to work from home to return to their jobs - were "baby steps" as the spread of the virus eased.

The changes will also see garden centres reopen and people will be allowed outdoors for unlimited exercise in pursuits such as tennis, golf, lawn bowls and basketball.

However, they must keep two metres away from other people and only exercise with their own household.

Mr Johnson said people in England would also be encouraged to wear face coverings in enclosed places, such as in some shops and on public transport.

The Prime Minister said that people who work in manufacturing and construction in particular should head back to work but urged people to avoid public transport.

He said: “We now need to stress that anyone who can't work from home, for instance those in construction or manufacturing, should be actively encouraged to go to work.

“And we want it to be safe for you to get to work. So you should avoid public transport if at all possible - because we must and will maintain social distancing, and capacity will therefore be limited.

“So work from home if you can, but you should go to work if you can't work from home.

“And to ensure you are safe at work we have been working to establish new guidance for employers to make workplaces COVID-secure.

“And when you do go to work, if possible do so by car or even better by walking or bicycle. But just as with workplaces, public transport operators will also be following COVID-secure standards.”

The "back to work" group includes those in construction and manufacturing, in labs and research facilities, tradesmen, cleaners and others.