The Delta variant is 40% more transmissible, the health secretary says, adding that protection against it is just as good with two doses of a vaccine.
Matt Hancock says the variant, first identified in India, makes life more challenging, and the government is "open" to delaying England's 21 June unlocking if needed.
Asked if measures such as face coverings and working from home could continue in the long term, he says he "wouldn't rule that out"
Vaccination is being opened up to the under 30s in England from next week.
Boris Johnson will urge wealthy countries to commit to vaccinating the world against Covid-19 by the end of next year, at a G7 summit.
Pupils in England should take Covid tests following the half-term break, says Education Secretary Gavin Williamson.
The Bafta Television Awards will be held later, with some stars attending in person and some virtually.
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