A blueprint for ending the lockdown and bringing Britain’s economy back to life could be unveiled as soon as Monday as ministers ramp up talks with business chiefs.
Industry leaders have been asked to send the Business Department specific proposals on how their companies could reopen safely with a deadline of Saturday, insiders said.
It means ministers can be briefed on Sunday, ready to announce the new strategy the following day if they choose. The plans suggest that weeks of harsh restrictions on British life could be drawing towards an end, to be replaced by a “new normal” where shops and other businesses can reopen with strict safety measures in place.
An announcement will also ease pressure on anxious companies desperate for clarity, with many firms perilously close to running out of cash.
However, controls will only be relaxed if scientific evidence indicates coronavirus infections have fallen to a safe level. About half a dozen sector groups have been launched to examine how different parts of the economy can restart work, insiders said.
These cover outdoor business, leisure and well-being, non-food retail, office work, factory and industry-based work, and distribution and logistics.