Government expected to unveil road map for easing restrictions at lockdown review tomorrow

Downing Street has emphasised that avoiding a second spike in the virus is central to any decisions likely to be made in the coming weeks.

Thursday will also see the launch of the ‘track and trace’ system’ - to find people who have come into close contact with those infected with the coronavirus. It’s hoped this system will play a central role in moving from the current lockdown restrictions to more targeted measures.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "Cabinet has discussed the road map and the decision which the government would like to implement on the proviso that it's in line with the five tests and any package we bring forward wouldn't risk a second spike in the virus that would overwhelm the NHS."

Downing Street has said it is ‘hopeful’ that schools could begin reopening on June 1 ahead of the official legal review into the lockdown tomorrow.

The spokesman added: “The PM said on Sunday night the final decision will be taken as part of the formal review into lockdown measures, which the law requires us to undertake by Thursday.

"That formal review will happen tomorrow and we are hopeful, without prejudging it, that we will be able to proceed with the reopening schools on June 1.”