Pubs in UK should stay shut until May due to Covid fears, scientists suggest

The prospect of pubs being forced to shut until May led to warnings that many may not reopen (Steve Parsons/PA)

Bars and restaurants in the UK should stay shut until May, researchers have suggested as Boris Johnson acknowledged it was “too early to say” when lockdown measures could be eased.

As 1,290 further deaths were reported, experts modelling the pandemic suggested there could be a huge surge in cases if restrictions were lifted too early.