No new Covid restrictions will be brought in for England before Christmas, the prime minister has said.

But Boris Johnson said ministers "can't rule out" any further measures after 25 December, with Omicron spreading at a speed never seen before.

He added the government would continue to closely monitor the data and would "not hesitate to act" after Christmas if needed.

On Tuesday, Scotland announced tough new measures to start from Boxing Day.

Large events will have limits on the number of people that can attend, and Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations have been cancelled.

In a video clip released on Tuesday, Mr Johnson said the government couldn't rule out additional restrictions after Christmas and pledged to "do whatever it takes" to protect the health of the nation.

He added that given the ongoing uncertainty over Omicron's severity and the impact of vaccines, there was not enough evidence to justify any tougher measures before Christmas.

He said people can go ahead with their Christmas plans but should exercise caution - and repeated his appeal for everyone to get a booster jab.

Scotland - where people have already been told to limit their socialising in the run-up to Christmas - announced new rules earlier. For at least three weeks from 26 December, all outdoor events will be limited to just 500 people and indoor events like concerts will be limited to 200 people if they are seated, or 100 for standing.

Wales has already announced plans for sporting events to be held without crowds from Boxing Day, and London has cancelled its New Year's Eve event in Trafalgar Square.

Wales is also closing nightclubs from 27 December - and more post-Christmas plans will be set out on Wednesday. In Northern Ireland, there is a limit of 30 on people mixing from different households in homes, and another announcement is due on Wednesday.

'England different to Scotland'


Virologist Dr Eleanor Gaunt, from the University of Edinburgh, said England's NHS would be "under incredible pressure come the end of January", and that it should follow Scotland with similar measures.

But Prof Paul Hunter, from the University of East Anglia, said the situation in England was slightly different to that in Scotland.

"It does seem to be the case that Omicron at least seems to be plateauing out in England, in a way that maybe it's not in Scotland. Until we understand that more it's difficult to suggest further restrictions," he told BBC Radio 4's PM programme.

England's case rate is currently higher than Scotland's - and Prof Hunter suggested that England might be closer to its peak than Scotland.

"South Africa had a very sharp peak but actually is now seeing a very rapid decline on the other side of that peak. One hopes we're going to see that in the UK."

Why judging the threat of Omicron is tricky

It's clear that this new variant is highly spreadable, but what experts still don't know is how much illness a massive wave of infections might cause.

Up until now, vaccines have been doing a great job of keeping many people out of hospital by breaking the link between cases and serious disease.

It's hoped booster shots will top up our immunity and continue this trend, but only time will tell.

Hospitals are already busy with patients who urgently need treatment for other things, as well as some who are ill with Covid.

More restrictions - along with testing - would help prevent some infections while more jabs are given and could ease some of the pressure on the NHS.

But they also come at a cost for society too. Protecting lives and livelihoods is a balancing act.

Labour said while everyone was relieved that Christmas was going ahead as planned, "the country also deserves some certainty about what comes after Christmas".

"The virus won't be taking Christmas off and there's still a risk of the NHS being overwhelmed in the new year," said shadow health secretary Wes Streeting.

He accused Mr Johnson of being "too weak to get any measures to keep the country safe through his cabinet".

It is understood that many in cabinet remain unconvinced that new measures are needed without further evidence on the impact of Omicron.

The highly-mutated Omicron variant has already become the dominant strain in England and Scotland, health experts say.

Another 90,629 new Covid cases were reported across the UK on Tuesday - slightly down on the all-time highs announced last week. And a further 897,979 people received their booster jab or third dose.

Train services across the country are also now being cancelled as rising numbers of staff fall ill with Covid.


Although England is sticking with its Plan B measures until Christmas, businesses say they are facing a wave of cancellations and low footfall as people limit their activity before Christmas.

Responding to their concerns, the government said on Tuesday it would be providing cash grants of up to £6,000 per premises to hospitality and leisure businesses affected by the surge in cases.

There is also £30m more for the arts and £100m for councils to help small firms.

But many businesses say the money is not enough, and they still want certainty over whether there will be more restrictions in future.

Approval paves way for broader digital financial services.
Singapore-based rewards and payments platform ShopBack has secured a major payment institution license from local regulators, enabling it to expand its suite of digital financial services.

Executives say the license will support greater innovation and strengthen Singapore’s position as a regional fintech hub.
New initiatives aim to strengthen academic and cultural ties.
The United States and Singapore have announced deeper collaboration on education, unveiling new exchange programs and partnerships designed to boost academic ties and cultural understanding.

Officials say the initiative will create expanded opportunities for students, researchers, and educators in both countries.
Offering to fund growth amid booming demand for cloud infrastructure.
Singapore-based NTT DC REIT is set to raise approximately $773 million through an initial public offering, aiming to capitalize on surging demand for data center capacity.

The company plans to expand its regional footprint as cloud computing and AI workloads fuel a race for secure, efficient digital infrastructure.
High-end spending rises as city-state attracts international brands.
Singapore is defying the global luxury slump with a surge in high-end retail spending, driven by its 240,000 millionaires and a robust influx of wealthy tourists.

Industry analysts say global brands are opening more stores in the city-state, making it Southeast Asia’s most stable and lucrative destination for luxury shopping.
Nine financial institutions fined for anti-money laundering failures.
Singapore’s financial regulator has imposed penalties totaling over S$27 million on nine institutions for breaches of anti-money laundering rules linked to gambling operations.

The enforcement action underscores the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the financial system.
New installation to boost adoption of electric vehicles.
Singapore plans to install its fastest electric vehicle charger by the fourth quarter of 2025, a move aimed at accelerating the country’s transition to cleaner transport.

Authorities say the high-capacity charger will significantly reduce charging times, supporting government targets for wider EV adoption in the coming years.
Health-focused initiative aims to boost access to virtual care.
Google has announced the expansion of its telemedicine advertising service to Singapore and the UK, enabling healthcare providers to better reach patients seeking virtual care.

The move aligns with rising demand for digital health solutions and represents the tech giant’s push into more localized, regulated markets.
Partnership will develop best practices for financial technology.
Singapore and the United Kingdom have formed a new alliance aimed at shaping the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the financial sector.

Officials say the collaboration will focus on developing standards, guidelines, and research to ensure AI tools are deployed safely and effectively across banking and fintech.
Award-nominated project sets benchmark for urban sustainability.
Singapore’s first net-positive energy nature park has been recognized as a finalist in the ULI Global Awards for Excellence 2024.

The innovative project, designed to generate more energy than it consumes, showcases the city-state’s commitment to sustainable urban development and serves as a model for other global cities.
Airlines struggle to manage delays amid regional storms.
Severe weather across Southeast Asia has disrupted flights, leaving thousands of travelers stranded in Singapore, China, and the UAE.

Airlines including Singapore Airlines and Air China have scrambled to accommodate passengers after unexpected storms forced widespread delays and cancellations, complicating peak travel schedules.
Ash cloud reaches 18 kilometers high, forcing widespread cancellations.
Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano has erupted spectacularly, sending an ash plume 18 kilometers into the sky and grounding flights across the region, including heavy disruptions for Bali-bound tourists.

Authorities have issued health warnings for ashfall, with residents wearing masks as thick grey deposits blanket nearby villages.
Nickel-rich projects drive growth despite ESG scrutiny.
Chinese mining giant Huayou Cobalt has posted record profits fueled by its nickel operations in Indonesia, underlining the Southeast Asian nation’s growing importance as a global supplier of battery metals.

The company says demand remains strong despite environmental and social governance concerns surrounding resource extraction.
Agreements cover oil, gas, and advanced mineral development.
U.S. energy giants including ExxonMobil and Chevron are expected to sign $34 billion worth of deals with Indonesia, covering oil and gas production as well as critical minerals essential for the green energy transition.

Officials describe the agreements as a landmark boost for bilateral economic ties and energy security cooperation.
Move seen as bargaining chip in tariff negotiations.
In an apparent concession aimed at reducing trade tensions, Indonesia has pledged to buy more American wheat as it negotiates with Washington to avoid the full impact of a 32% tariff on its exports.

Officials hope the expanded agricultural imports will help secure a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade arrangement.
New trade measure raises stakes in U.S.-Indonesia economic relations.
Former President Donald Trump has confirmed the imposition of a 32% tariff on all Indonesian exports to the United States, warning Jakarta against retaliation.

The measure forms part of a broader set of trade restrictions targeting multiple countries, sparking concerns over rising costs for key Indonesian industries such as palm oil and electronics.
Agreement aims to stabilize supply as regional shipments decline.
Indonesia and Vietnam have announced a new rice trade agreement designed to secure reliable supplies as exports from the region face sharp declines.

Officials say the pact will help maintain price stability and food security for both countries, while reinforcing trade ties amid broader geopolitical and climate-related challenges.
Travelers stranded as ash cloud threatens aviation safety.
Flights to and from Bali and other Indonesian destinations have been canceled following the violent eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki, which sent ash clouds soaring into commercial air corridors.

Airlines across Australia and Southeast Asia have grounded routes, stranding hundreds of travelers and forcing carriers to coordinate last-minute contingency plans.
Authorities on alert for further eruptions from Mount Lewotobi.
Indonesian emergency teams have begun evacuating villages threatened by lava flows and heavy ashfall from Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki’s latest eruption.

Officials warn that conditions remain unstable, with volcanic tremors continuing to rattle the region, as authorities prioritize resident safety and the delivery of emergency aid supplies.
Jakarta scrambles to defuse economic tensions before new levy deadline.
Indonesia is sending its top trade negotiator to Washington in an urgent bid to avoid the looming 32% U.S. tariff on its exports.

Officials say they hope to present new concessions, including increased American agricultural imports, to secure a more favorable outcome and protect Indonesia’s crucial manufacturing and commodities sectors.
Residents don masks as air quality plummets near eruption zone.
Thick volcanic ash from Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi eruption has blanketed surrounding villages, forcing thousands of residents to wear masks and shelter indoors.

Authorities have issued urgent health advisories warning of respiratory risks, while emergency teams monitor conditions for potential evacuations if volcanic activity continues.
Move aims to defuse trade tensions and avoid steep American levies.
Thailand has formally submitted a new trade proposal to the United States that offers zero tariffs on a wide range of American goods in exchange for reduced tariffs on Thai exports.

The government hopes the offer will avert the impending 36% levy, preserve critical trade flows, and stabilize the country’s export-dependent economy.
Trade escalation raises fears of severe impact on key industries.
Former President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping 36% tariff on all Thai exports to the United States, warning Thailand against retaliatory measures.

The move is part of a broader strategy targeting multiple trading partners and is expected to hit Thailand’s electronics, automotive, and food industries particularly hard.
Government scrambles to finalize concessions as clock ticks.
Thailand’s finance minister says he remains confident that ongoing negotiations will succeed in reducing the newly announced 36% U.S. tariff before the August 1 deadline.

The government has offered trade concessions and is engaging in intensive diplomacy to preserve vital export markets and avoid disruptions to economic growth.
Government offers new concessions in effort to lower tariff threat.
Thailand has submitted a new trade proposal to the United States offering zero tariffs on many American goods in a bid to avoid the newly announced 36% tariff on its exports.

Officials say they remain hopeful that concessions will lead to a reduced tariff rate before the U.S. deadline, aiming to protect jobs and critical supply chains.
Washington weighs curbs over fears of Chinese technology transfers.
The United States is reportedly preparing to restrict exports of advanced AI chips to Thailand and Malaysia in a move designed to curb China's access to critical technologies.

Industry analysts warn the proposed measures could hamper Thailand's efforts to build its semiconductor sector and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.
Military partnership highlights shared security commitments in the Indo-Pacific.
The United States and Thailand have begun the 2025 iteration of the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training, or CARAT, exercises aimed at enhancing maritime security, interoperability, and regional stability.

The joint drills underscore the longstanding defense partnership between the two countries amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.
SVOLT factory celebrates landmark achievement amid growing demand.
Chinese battery maker SVOLT has celebrated the production of its 10,000th electric vehicle battery pack at its factory in Thailand, underscoring the country’s emergence as a regional EV manufacturing hub.

Officials say the milestone reflects surging demand and Thailand’s strategy to position itself at the forefront of clean automotive technology.
Authorities warn of flooding and travel disruptions.
Thailand’s meteorological department has issued warnings of heavy rainfall as tropical storm Danas intensifies the annual monsoon.

Officials advise residents to brace for potential flooding and landslides, with emergency services on alert and travel disruptions expected across affected regions.
Officials aim to protect industry and employment from U.S. levy.
In a bid to avoid the full brunt of a 36% tariff on exports to the United States, Thailand has offered further trade concessions aimed at satisfying American demands for improved market access.

Government officials stress the need to safeguard critical industries and jobs that rely on robust trade ties with Washington.
New laws aim to stem inflows of foreign trash and boost sustainability.
Malaysia has passed tougher laws to curb the import of plastic waste, drawing praise from environmental groups that say the country has long been a dumping ground for foreign trash.

Officials argue the stricter regulations will reduce pollution, support recycling industries, and promote a more sustainable waste management system.
First Asia trip for new Secretary of State comes as trade conflict heats up.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Malaysia for ASEAN meetings this week, marking his first official visit to Asia.

The trip comes as new American tariffs on Malaysian exports fuel diplomatic tensions, with both sides expected to address trade frictions and regional security challenges during high-level talks.
Trade ministry says it remains committed to a fair deal with Washington.
Malaysia’s trade ministry has pledged to continue engagement with the United States despite the announcement of 25% tariffs on Malaysian goods.

Officials say they remain committed to finding a balanced solution that preserves vital trade flows while addressing American concerns over market access and supply chain security.
Airline group commits to major fleet expansion despite tariff headwinds.
Malaysia Aviation Group has confirmed a major order for 20 additional Airbus A330neo jets, signaling long-term confidence in aviation growth despite looming trade tensions.

The move reflects the airline’s strategy to modernize its fleet, expand regional routes, and compete more effectively in Asia’s fast-recovering travel market.
Economists see potential cut as trade tensions cloud growth outlook.
Malaysia’s central bank is weighing its first interest rate cut in five years as economists warn that new U.S. tariffs could dampen exports and slow growth.

Analysts say policymakers face a delicate balancing act to support domestic demand while guarding against inflation risks and financial market volatility.
Strong second-quarter growth highlights country’s tech ambitions.
Malaysia’s digital sector attracted more than $6.19 billion in new investment in the second quarter of 2025, a 125% increase from the previous quarter.

Officials say the surge underscores the country’s ambitions to position itself as a Southeast Asian technology hub while diversifying its economy and creating high-skilled jobs.
Officials aim to prevent damage to trade ties after sudden tariff announcement.
Malaysia’s government has requested urgent trade talks with the United States after Washington announced a 25% tariff on Malaysian goods.

Trade officials say they are committed to a fair, balanced deal and hope to avert lasting damage to economic ties that support billions in annual commerce between the two countries.
Report says U.S. weighing new limits on sales to Malaysia and Thailand.
Reports indicate the United States is preparing to restrict exports of advanced AI chips to Malaysia and Thailand as part of broader efforts to curb China’s tech ambitions.

Industry leaders warn the move could hurt Malaysia’s growing semiconductor sector, which plays a critical role in global electronics supply chains.
Trade move targets 14 countries, intensifying global economic tensions.
Former President Donald Trump has imposed new 25% tariffs on all Malaysian exports to the United States as part of a sweeping trade crackdown affecting 14 countries.

The administration argues the move will protect American industry, but critics warn it risks inflaming diplomatic relations and disrupting global supply chains.
New trade measures target 14 countries with steep penalties on select imports.
Former President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs, including a 40% duty on imports from Myanmar and Laos, as part of a broader plan hitting 14 countries with punitive rates.

The move is intended to counter what Trump describes as unfair trade practices, but critics warn it could strain diplomatic ties and raise consumer prices.
Move seen as response to international criticism over recruitment practices.
Myanmar’s military junta has released 93 child soldiers following sustained international pressure and condemnation from the United Nations.

Human rights groups have welcomed the move but continue to call for stronger protections and accountability to end the long-standing practice of recruiting minors into armed conflict.
Refugees cross into India’s northeast amid clashes between junta and ethnic forces.
Intensifying clashes in Myanmar’s Chin State have forced thousands of civilians to flee across the border into India’s northeast, straining resources in border states like Mizoram.

Officials report ongoing efforts to shelter and support the displaced as humanitarian agencies warn of growing needs amid continued violence.
Disaster survivors still struggle with damaged infrastructure and aid gaps.
One hundred days after a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, thousands of survivors remain in precarious conditions with limited access to adequate housing, healthcare, and clean water.

Aid organizations report that rebuilding efforts have been hampered by funding shortfalls and ongoing political instability, leaving many communities vulnerable.
Fighting in Kachin state threatens critical mining operations vital to global tech supply chains.
Escalating clashes between Myanmar’s military and Kachin Independence Army rebels threaten China’s crucial supply of heavy rare earths, raising alarm in global technology markets.

The conflict has disrupted mining operations in northern Myanmar, forcing Chinese buyers to weigh alternative sourcing as geopolitical risks mount.
Industry braces for massive payouts following destructive cross-border quake.
Insurance industry analysts estimate claims could exceed $1.5 billion after the recent earthquake that struck border regions of Myanmar and Thailand.

The quake caused widespread damage to buildings, infrastructure, and agriculture, highlighting gaps in preparedness and spurring calls for stronger disaster mitigation measures across the region.
Health authorities warn of serious risks to communities relying on river water.
Health officials in Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar have sounded the alarm over dangerous levels of arsenic contamination detected in stretches of the Mekong River.

Experts warn that prolonged exposure poses severe health risks to millions who depend on the river for drinking water, irrigation, and fishing, prompting calls for urgent mitigation efforts.
Thousands flee fighting between junta forces and ethnic armed groups.
Heavy fighting between Myanmar’s military junta and ethnic resistance forces has triggered a fresh wave of refugees crossing into India’s Mizoram state, with officials confirming over 4,000 new arrivals.

Local authorities and aid groups are scrambling to provide shelter and relief as the humanitarian crisis along the border deepens.
Diplomats seek common ground as tensions overshadow economic goals.
ASEAN foreign ministers gathering in Kuala Lumpur face mounting pressure to address the worsening crisis in Myanmar alongside rising trade tensions sparked by new U.S. tariffs.

Analysts say the bloc must balance calls for stronger action on human rights with maintaining regional economic stability and diplomatic ties.
Minority groups demand accountability as global attention returns to rights abuses.
Myanmar’s military rulers are under renewed scrutiny at the United Nations Human Rights Council, where Rohingya and other minority groups are calling for stronger international pressure to hold the junta accountable for abuses.

Advocates argue that meaningful action is essential to prevent further atrocities and ensure justice for victims.
Asian AI Boom: Goldman Sachs Repositions Asian Equity Strategy Amid AI Growth
BRICS Expands Membership with Indonesia and Ten New Partner Countries
Hong Kong Denies Entry to Over 12,000 Visitors in Early 2025
US Administration Plans to Restrict AI Chip Shipments to Malaysia and Thailand
Tiffany’s Show Pattaya Celebrates 50 Years of Brilliance with a Dazzling New Era
China’s Central Bank Consults European Peers on Low-Rate Strategies
US Eases Chip Software Sales Restrictions to China
Trump Announces New Trade Agreement Between U.S. and Vietnam
South Korea Signals It May Miss Trump Trade Deal Deadline
Toyota Industries Faces Backlash Over $33 Billion Buyout Plan
AI Raises Alarms Over Long-Term Job Security
Chinese Astronauts Successfully Return from Tiangong Space Station
France Requests Airlines to Cut Flights at Paris Airports Amid Planned Air Traffic Controller Strike
Emirates Airline Expands Market Share with New $20 Million Campaign
Amazon Reaches Milestone with Deployment of One Millionth Robot
Singapore Police Empowered to Seize Bank Accounts to Combat Scams
Yulia Putintseva Calls for Spectator Ejection at Wimbledon Over Safety Concerns
BIGXSHOW LALA Co., Ltd. Partners with Japanese Firms to Advance Influencer Marketing in Asia
House Oversight Committee Subpoenas Former Jill Biden Aide Amid Investigation into Alleged Concealment of President Biden's Cognitive Health
Extreme Heat Wave Sweeps Across Europe, Hitting Record Temperatures
Meta Announces Formation of Ambitious AI Unit, Meta Superintelligence Labs
AI Management Experiment Shows Promise Despite Failures
Robots Compete in Football Tournament in China Amid Injuries
China Unveils Miniature Insect-Like Surveillance Drone
Asia News Roundup: Key Developments Across the Region
OpenAI Secures Multimillion-Dollar AI Contracts with Pentagon, India, and Grab
Marc Marquez Claims Victory at Dutch Grand Prix Amidst Family Misfortune
Southern Europe Experiences Extreme Heat
Xiaomi's YU7 SUV Launch Garners Record Pre-Orders Amid Market Challenges
UK Scientists Launch Synthetic Human Genome Project with £10 Million Funding
Iran Executes Alleged Israeli Spies and Arrests Hundreds Amid Post-War Crackdown
Thai Prime Minister Discusses Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues with French President Emmanuel Macron
North Korea to Open New Beach Resort to Boost Tourism Economy
Hong Kong Monetary Authority Intervenes as Hong Kong Dollar Reaches Weak Trading Threshold
China Pledges Greater Openness Amid Global Trade Tensions
China and Taiwan Engage in Historical Dispute as Beijing Declares Territory Status
NATO Leaders Endorse Plan for Increased Defence Spending
South Korean Court Denies Arrest Warrant for Former President Yoon Suk-yeol
U.S. Crude Oil Prices Drop Below $65 Amid Market Volatility
Japan’s LDP Suffers Historic Defeat in Tokyo Assembly Poll
Germany and Italy Under Pressure to Repatriate $245bn of Gold from US Vaults
WATCH: Israeli forces show the aftermath of a massive airstrike at Iran's Isfahan nuclear site
Fordow: Deeply Buried Iranian Enrichment Site in U.S.–Israel Crosshairs
United States Conducts Precision Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites
US strikes Iran nuclear sites, Trump says
16 Billion Login Credentials Leaked in Unprecedented Cybersecurity Breach
Senate hearing on who was 'really running' Biden White House kicks off
G7 Leaders Fail to Reach Consensus on Key Global Issues
Vietnam Emerges as Luxury Yacht Destination for Ultra‑Rich
Cambodia Emerges as Global Hub for Cybercrime and Online Scams