Boris Johnson admits he ‘cannot rule out’ fresh lockdown over Omicron strain – but toughest restrictions ‘unlikely’

BORIS Johnson today admitted he "cannot rule out anything" to deal with the Omicron strain but stressed that a fresh lockdown is "extremely unlikely".

The PM today insisted yet again he can't promise he won't order the nation into more restrictions, but played down the chances of an extreme shutdown like last year.

Medics and ministers have insisted that this year is different as so many million people have had a Covid vaccine.

But he admitted that all measures were, as ever "under review" in case they were needed.

Today the PM announced at the Downing Street press conference that every adult would be able to book a booster jab by the end of January.

The PM said he would be "throwing everything" at the mutant variant, which has left scientists all around the world concerned.

At a festive-themed press briefing Mr Johnson said temporary vaccination centres will be "popping up like Christmas trees" to deliver boosters.

He said: "I know the frustration that we all feel with this Omicron variant, the sense of exhaustion that we could be going through this all over again. 

"But today our position is – and always will be – immeasurably better than it was a year ago. 

"What we’re doing is we’re taking some proportionate, precautionary, measures while our scientists crack the Omicron code, and while we get the added protection of those boosters into the arms of those who need them most."

Health Secretary Sajid Javid admitted that getting boosted as soon as possible would be the ";best chance" of having a normal Christmas this year.

Boris stressed again he reckoned Christmas would be "much better than last Christmas".

The most vulnerable Brits will be able to get a fourth dose to make sure they are as protected as possible.

🔵 Read our Omicron variant live blog for the latest news

And the PM hailed The Sun's Jabs Army as he confirmed 400 troops would be rolled out across the country.

Boris also urged the nation not to panic and cancel their Christmas parties and nativities - as Brits abandon their bookings in droves in response to fears over the new omicron variant.

There are now 14 cases across the UK but Mr Javid said it was likely there was now community transmission of the disease.

Fresh rules came into place earlier today included mandatory mask rules and PCR tests for every traveller coming in to the country.