These are the new lockdown rules in full: Government publishes coronavirus 'road map' document

The new document has been published shortly before Boris Johnson is due to deliver a Commons statement on the matter.

One of the major points is that one household may in future be allowed to meet with one other as a way of easing the long-term restrictions on people's lives.

Government scientific advisers have been asked to scrutinise the plan going forward to ensure England adapts to life with social distancing measures in the long-term.

The plan outlines both what the government sees as possible now, and what it thinks might be able to happen in the near future.

These are the measures outlined in the plan.

- Those who are currently shielding should continue to do so until it is clear that it is safe for them to have more freedom.

- ‘Vulnerable’ groups such as the over-70s should "continue to take particular care to minimise contact with others outside their households, but do not need to be shielded."

- Face coverings are to be worn in enclosed spaces like on public transport and in shops. Young children under two or who will find them hard to manage, and people with respiratory conditions are exempt from this.

- International travellers are being asked to quarantine for 14 days upon entering the country either in accommodation of their choice or, if they have none, in government-provided accommodation.

- The Government aims to have all primary school pupils back in school for a month before the summer holidays.

- Non-essential retail will be able to open no earlier than June 1. This will only happen if it can be proven they can keep people safe.

- Research is being done into "how to enable people to gather in slightly larger groups to better facilitate small weddings".

- Cultural and sporting events will be able to take place behind closed doors for broadcast from next month. Large-scale social contact will still be prohibited.

- July 4 has been given as the earliest date for when the Government hopes to open some of the remaining business and premises that have been forced to close. This includes personal care (such as hairdressers and salons), hospitality like pubs and cafes, public places like playgrounds or places of worship, and leisure facilities. In order to open, these places must meet special ‘Covid secure’ guidelines.

The document also sets out how restrictions may be lifted and implemented on a regional basis, depending on local levels of infection.

The document adds: "The Government may adjust restrictions in some regions before others: a greater risk in Cornwall should not lead to disproportionate restrictions in Newcastle if the risk is lower."