Plan C: How could tougher Covid restrictions ‘being considered by ministers’ differ to Plan B?

s Omicron cases continue to surge, Plan B measures to mandate masks in many more indoor settings came into force on Friday.

But ministers are already said to be considering even tougher Plan C measures to slow down the new variant’s spread and allow for more booster jabs to be administered.

Officially there is no Plan C but in the Government’s winter plan it speaks instead of preparing “contingencies” if Plan B did not go far enough.

But with fears around Omicron, ministers are reportedly discussing could include having to “check in” once again with the NHS Covid App when entering hospitality venues and wearing a mask in all indoor spaces, reports the Daily Mail.

Vaccine passports could also be extended to a wider array of venues than what has currently been planned under measures set to be introduced next week.

Other suggestions are 10-day self-isolation would be required for contacts of confirmed cases of all ovid variants, reports the I.

Currently, only those identified as an Omicron contact have to self-isolate in England - regardless of vaccination status - with ministers looking to introduce daily testing.

New restrictions could also be introduced on the number of care home visitors which would entail residents being asked to choose three people who will be able to visit them, reports the Times.

On Friday, mandatory face masks returned for most indoor settings but not hospitality.

Next Wednesday, Parliament will vote on introducing vaccine passports where large crowds gather.

This includes unseated indoor events with 500 or more attendees, unseated outdoor events with 4,000 or more attendees and any event with 10,000 or more attendees.

Proof of a negative lateral flow test will be accepted on the vaccine passport.