It may not be time for ‘plan B’ – but Boris Johnson can ill afford to be stubborn

One of the most disturbing features of the recent increase in Covid-19 cases is that it has been happening despite a reasonable level of vaccinations – though the UK’s early success in rolling out the jabs has not been maintained.

Current levels of protection by vaccination are not as high as in many European countries. Cases are alarmingly high, with the UK now an outlier vis-a-vis other nations with similar population. In an afternoon press conference the health secretary, Sajid Javid, said that cases could reach 100,000 a day and he urged people to get the vaccine and their booster jabs.

That followed the business secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, saying earlier in the day that slow uptake of the booster is “something that we really need to address”. Mr Kwarteng also said he is aware the vaccine rollout to 12 to 15-year-olds needs to pick up speed.

The government must learn both from its own past mistakes – being nimble and acting swiftly when required is important. The government already has an autumn plan in place – its “plan A” – but officials at the NHS Confederation, one of the two main bodies representing NHS workers, have called on the government to move to “plan B” – and beyond – and “introduce measures, such as mandatory face coverings in crowded and enclosed spaces, without delay”.

That advice should be considered seriously. The government has dismissed the possibility of implementing plan B for now and has ruled out another lockdown – with Mr Javid instead pointing to deals secured for antiviral Covid-19 treatments (although they still are to be evaluated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency). Those are welcome – and the government has to be aware of the costs, both financial and in terms of the mental health and wellbeing of its citizens of re-imposing restrictions – but being obdurate could prove costly.

Common sense suggests a two-pronged approach. It should consider adjusting that plan to combat the spread of the virus – the infrastructure and supply is there is speed up the lagging vaccination programme, so the government needs a concerted effort to persuade people to take up their booster shots as well. It also makes sense to amplify a suggestion that people are cautious about their behaviour more generally. In short, it should follow its present set of policies, but do so with more rigour, determination and energy. Mr Javid sought to get both of these messages across, but more effort is needed.

The government is saying that it is not yet the time for plan B, insisting it is still about personal responsibility. But it must not be stubborn in the face of rising cases. One of the lessons of the past 18 month is that early, measured action can avert the need for more serious curbs later.

Mr Javid has said “the pandemic is not over”. That is very true – and if it is to be plan B, far better to move quickly.