Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social care gave this update this afternoon.
Mr Hancock said:
‘52% of adults have now had two Covid vaccinations.’
‘From this week vaccinations will be offered to under 30, from this week people in the age group of 25-29 will be contacted to be offered Covid vaccinations.’
The vaccination brings us hope’
‘The Indian variant [ Delta ] recent scientific data suggests a 40% faster transmission rate.’
‘Case rates are rising particularly in the North West of England, but surge testing in Bolton has led to cases falling.’
‘Vaccination is the most important tool we have’
‘Despite the increase in cases, hospitalisations are comparatively flat.
‘As of 3 June 12,383 cases of Delta were identified of these – 126 people were admitted to hospital, 28 had received one dose of the vaccination, and just 3 were unvaccinated.’
‘It’s too early to be sure of 21 June – we will announce the decision on 14 June as planned.’
Full verbatim statement soon