Government scientific advisors have warned that relaxation will cost lives and risk a third blockade in January, and hospital chiefs say it is premature. However, ministers believe the need for family contact overcomes that.

Christmas meetings between up to 3 householders and the future belongs to God? Or does the vaccine belong? 

The families will be allowed to meet two other families in a "Christmas bubble" under a five-day relaxation of the rules of social distancing.

The rules of social distancing do not apply to bubbles, allowing loved ones to embrace each other. However, the official council encourages people to "think carefully about what they will do during this period" and take precautions to avoid infecting vulnerable relatives.

They can travel freely through Britain from 23 to 27 December under a "limited and cautious" exemption from the restrictions agreed between Westminster and the decentralised administrations.

Source: The Times