Boris Johnson to make announcement today after 15m Covid vaccine target hit as Rule of 6 to return and shops reopen

PRIME Minister Boris Johnson is set to hold a Downing Street press conference at 5pm today after the UK hit its 15m vaccine target two days early.

The PM is set to reveal his roadmap out of lockdown next week after reviewing data on how vaccinations are impacting Covid cases and deaths in the coming days.

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He will appear alongside NHS chief Simon Stevens and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty.

Mr Johnson is expected to address the nation on the impressive vaccination programme and spell out plans to jab 32 million adults, including all over 50s, by the end of April.

In a video shared on social media last night, the PM hailed the Herculean efforts of the army of volunteers and medics vaccinating the nation.

He said: "They are really going gangbusters - shooting the lights out.”

The PM has already confirmed he hopes all primary school pupils will return to class on March 8.

Downing Street sources have also suggested all secondary school students could return around the same time.

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Positive early figures suggesting Covid vaccines are offering two-thirds protection in just one jab have also boosted hopes families could be able to meet outdoors next month.

Adults could be allowed to meet with one person outside their household outdoors from March 8, allowing grandparents to see their grandchildren again.

It is believed social distancing restrictions could be eased further with the return of the Rule of Six outdoors by the end of next month.

Non-essential shops are currently penciled to be the next step on the path to ease lockdown and could reopen by Easter.

At the same time, Brits could be allowed to drink and dine with friends outside as pubs and restaurants re-open for al fresco table service.

The hated 10pm curfew and substantial meal rule that left punters and landlords baffled is reportedly going out the window.

Venues could then be allowed to reopen their doors and allow customers inside from as early as May.

Restrictions look set to be eased on a national level, with the regional tiers system unlikely to return.

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Over the weekend, the Prime Minister said he was “optimistic” that the vaccine roll-out will allow for further easing in the coming months.

He said: "I'm optimistic, but we have to be cautious."

"Our children's education is our number one priority, but then working forward, getting non-essential retail open as well and then, in due course, as and when we can prudently, cautiously, of course we want to be opening hospitality as well."

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