BORIS Johnson has given the go-ahead for people’s Christmas plans, although he warned tougher restrictions could be implemented post-December 25.

The Prime Minister said “continuing uncertainty” about the severity of the Omicron variant and hospital admission rates means he does not believe there is enough evidence at the moment to justify stricter measures.

But the situation remains “finely balanced” and people should “exercise caution”, Johnson added.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon announces new Covid restrictions for Scotland

In a video message, the Prime Minister said: “There is no doubt that Omicron continues to surge with a speed unlike anything we’ve seen before.

“The situation remains extremely difficult but I also recognise that people have been waiting to hear whether their Christmas plans are going to be affected.

“So what I can say tonight is that naturally we can’t rule out any further measures after Christmas – and we’re going to keep a constant eye on the data, and we’ll do whatever it takes to protect public health.

“But in view of the continuing uncertainty about several things – the severity of Omicron, uncertainty about the hospitalisation rate or the impact of the vaccine rollout or the boosters, we don’t think today that there is enough evidence to justify any tougher measures before Christmas.

“We continue to monitor Omicron very closely and if the situation deteriorates we will be ready to take action if needed.

“What this means is that people can go ahead with their Christmas plans but the situation remains finely balanced and I would urge everyone to exercise caution, to keep protecting yourselves and your loved ones, especially the vulnerable.

“And remember to keep following the guidance – wear a mask indoors when required to do so, keep fresh air circulating, and take a test before you visit elderly or vulnerable relatives.”

It comes after Nicola Sturgeon said that people should stay at home as much as possible before Christmas and keep celebrations as safe as possible by keeping gatherings small.

But from December 27 people in Scotland are being asked to limit contacts as much as they can and this advice will continue over the New Year period and into the first week in January. After that, the guidance will be reviewed.

READ MORE: 'Thank God someone's listening to science': Expert reacts to Nicola Sturgeon Covid update

From December 26, there will also be a limit on the number of people who can attend public events that will run for three weeks.

For indoor standing events, the limit will be 100, for indoor seated events it will be 200, and for outdoor events, it will be 500 seated or standing.

Physical distancing of one metre will be required at events that go ahead within these limits.

The Prime Minister went on to encourage people to “drop everything” if they have yet to get a vaccine.

Johnson’s comments come after Chancellor Rishi Sunak offered a £1 billion support package to hospitality and leisure businesses hit by Covid restrictions amid concerns over the high transmission of Omicron.