Reviewing politics
and culture since 1913

  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

Watch: Stephen Bush explains why Boris Johnson has bet on easing England’s coronavirus lockdown and what this could mean for the NHS, the prime minister, and the public.

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.

Select and enter your email address Your weekly guide to the best writing on ideas, politics, books and culture every Saturday. The best way to sign up for The Saturday Read is via saturdayread.substack.com The New Statesman's quick and essential guide to the news and politics of the day. The best way to sign up for Morning Call is via morningcall.substack.com
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
THANK YOU

Subscribe to the New Statesman today and save 75%
Content from our partners
The Living Places concept can transform the UK
The Living Places concept can transform the UK
Alex O'dell
The AI gap in government
The AI gap in government
Spotlight
Towards an industrial skills strategy
Towards an industrial skills strategy
Charlie Jeffery and Nunzio Quacquarelli

Topics in this article :

Join the debate

Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Most Voted
Newest Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments