New Times,
New Thinking.

  1. Politics
21 July 2021updated 07 Jun 2023 3:13pm

Boris Johnson’s big “Freedom Day” gamble

Stephen Bush explains why the PM has bet on unlocking England now – and why the stakes are so high. 

By Stephen Bush and Phil Clarke Hill

On Monday 19 July the government lifted most Covid restrictions in England. “Freedom Day” was welcomed by the hospitality industry and many members of the public, but was criticised by scientific and public health experts.

In this video, the New Statesman‘s political editor Stephen Bush explains what the decision to unlock could mean for the NHS, Boris Johnson and the public.

Content from our partners
Building Britain’s water security
How to solve the teaching crisis
Pitching in to support grassroots football

Give a gift subscription to the New Statesman this Christmas from just £49

Topics in this article :