Bishop of London responds to Prime Minister's announcement lifting remaining Covid-19 restrictions

Bishop Sarah Mullally, who chairs the Church of England’s Covid Recovery Group, said: “The Prime Minister’s announcement that Covid-19 restrictions are being lifted holds out the hopeful prospect of the end of the pandemic but will nonetheless raise concerns for some.

“The last two years have challenged us again and again but also taught us how we can do many things differently and heightened our awareness of how we transmit disease.

“People have made huge sacrifices and I would like, again, to say thank you to our NHS and front-line workers, our clergy, parish volunteers and congregations for all you have done.

“Your actions - whether noticed or unnoticed, big or small - have been the glue which has held our communities and our nation together during this time of great need.

“I recognise the pandemic has had a major impact on people’s well-being, and the need to look out for each other is as great if not greater than ever.

“Although the legal restrictions are being lifted, there may be good reason for us to take some measures as individuals and as local churches. I am conscious that some people with medical conditions will be more fearful now that compulsory isolation for those who are likely to be infectious is ending and we should not lose our focus on the most vulnerable.

“We’ve much to be thankful for - not least the vaccines which have been a real answer to prayer. They are more vital than ever, both here and around the world.”