A GOVERNMENT scientific adviser criticised ministers today for “flip-flopping” between encouraging people to visit bars and restaurants and closing such businesses due to a spike in Covid-19 cases.

Professor John Edmunds, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), urged the government to adopt a long-term strategy, while it was reported that the hospitality sector could face restrictions until next spring.

Current national lockdown measures in England mean that venues such as pubs, bars and restaurants have been forced to close, but they are expected to reopen on December 2 when the lockdown ends.