AS part of lockdown easing measures, employers will have discretion over whether staff should go back to work.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that from Saturday, August 1 the Government will change its advice on working from home.

It will be up to employers to decide with its staff whether people should work from home.

James Brokenshire, minister of state for security said: “The advice actually says that employers should decide in consultation with their employees whether it’s viable for them to continue working from home.

“But, if they do (return to the workplace), then obviously this needs to be based on risk assessment, public health guidance, and ensuring that it’s a Covid-safe space for them to do so.”

His remarks came after the Government’s chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, said working from home is a perfectly good option.

Pressed on whether people should return to workplaces if they can, Mr Brokenshire said: “It’s for employers to make that assessment.”

From today, Friday public transport will be available to everyone in England.

And on Saturday, August 1 bowling alleys, beauty salons, casinos and ice skating rinks reopen.

Wedding receptions of up to 30 people will also be allowed but nightclubs and soft play areas will stay closed.

Boris Johnson added: "We will restart indoor performances to a live audience, subject to the success of pilots, and we will also pilot larger gatherings in venues like sport stadia, with a view to a wider reopening in the autumn."

Boris Johnson added: “From tomorrow, local authorities will have new powers in their areas.

“They will be able to close specific premises, shut public outdoor spaces and cancel events.

“These powers will enable local authorities to act more quickly in response to outbreaks where speed is paramount.

“Action by local councils will not always be sufficient, so next week we will publish draft regulations on how central government can intervene more effectively at a local level.

“Where justified by the evidence, ministers will be able to close whole sectors or types of premises in an area, introduce local stay-at-home orders, prevent people entering or leaving defined areas, reduce the size of gatherings beyond the national defined rules or restrict transport systems serving local areas.”