U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson will today announce tougher COVID-19 restrictions as the national lockdown eases on December 2. 

Mr. Johnson is expected to set out his plan for winter before the Parliament today ahead of the holidays. 

The “Covid winter plan” is expected to place more areas into the higher tiers. These restrictions aim to control the virus’ spread to ensure further restrictions will not be necessary. 

Previously, the tier system ranged from both outdoor and indoor meetings being restricted to six people, and restaurants and bars being closed at ten to no household mixing indoors or in some outdoor spaces; and restaurants not serving meals had to be closed.

Under the new restrictions, the 10pm curfew previously set on pubs and restaurants will be altered to enable customers enjoy their dining experience for an extra hour. 

The cabinet signed off the plans yesterday, deciding which regions belong to each tier before November 26, according to a report by the Telegraph.

Parliamentarians will vote to approve the new system, as promised by Mr. Johnson, in the days before it comes into force on December 2.

Depending on the availability of vaccines, the government is hopeful that restrictions can be phased out as spring approaches and as vaccine roll out plans begin next month. 

Downing Street hopes the easing of the lockdown before Christmas, as well as potential vaccines and new scientific evidence, will lessen the possibility of a rebellion by backbench Conservative members.