British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing yet another scandal. Johnson had been facing accusations of sleaze and his poor handling of the covid-19 pandemic. Now one of Britain's newspapers has published a photograph of a gathering involving Boris Johnson during the lockdown.

UK newspaper publishes photo of PM Boris Johnson at 'garden party'

UK's health secretary has refused to rule out chances of further covid restrictions before Christmas. Health secretary Sajid Javid was asked about the potential for new restrictions, to which he replied that there are no guarantees in this pandemic.

UK health secretary signals more curbs loom ahead of Christmas

Omicron travel chaos: Countries that imposed travel curbs over new Covid variant

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Director Dr Randeep Guleria said on Sunday that in view of rising COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom, India should prepare itself for any eventuality.&nbsp;

"We should prepare and hope that things are not as bad as in the United Kingdom. We need more data on Omicron. Whenever there is a surge in cases in other parts of the world, we need to monitor it closely and be prepared for any eventuality.&nbsp; It is better to stay prepared than to get caught off-guard," said Guleria while talking to ANI.

India has so far reported over 100 cases of Omicron.The new variant of COVID-19 was first reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO) from South Africa on November 25.&nbsp;

As per the WHO, the first known confirmed B.1.1.529 infection was from a specimen collected on November 9 this year.On November 26, the WHO named the new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which has been detected in South Africa, as `Omicron`. The WHO has classified Omicron as a `variant of concern`.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Director Dr Randeep Guleria said on Sunday that in view of rising COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom, India should prepare itself for any eventuality.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Director Dr Randeep Guleria said on Sunday that in view of rising COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom, India should prepare itself for any eventuality. "We should prepare and hope that things are not as bad as in the United Kingdom. We need more data on Omicron. Whenever there is a surge in cases in other parts of the world, we need to monitor it closely and be prepared for any eventuality. It is better to stay prepared than to get caught off-guard," said Guleria while talking to ANI. India has so far reported over 100 cases of Omicron.The new variant of COVID-19 was first reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO) from South Africa on November 25. As per the WHO, the first known confirmed B.1.1.529 infection was from a specimen collected on November 9 this year.On November 26, the WHO named the new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which has been detected in South Africa, as `Omicron`. The WHO has classified Omicron as a `variant of concern`.

Omicron: We should prepare and hope things are not as bad as in UK, says AIIMS chief

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday.&nbsp;There was also an increase in the number of admissions to the hospital who were infected by the variant.&nbsp;

London Mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident," calling for closer coordination between public agencies and central government support.&nbsp;

This came in as Covid hospitalisations in the city surged by 30 per cent this week. He said health worker absences had also increased.

"This is a statement of how serious things are," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-say-uk-scientists-438070">Also read |&nbsp;Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists</a>

Meanwhile, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.&nbsp;

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday.

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday. There was also an increase in the number of admissions to the hospital who were infected by the variant. London Mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident," calling for closer coordination between public agencies and central government support. This came in as Covid hospitalisations in the city surged by 30 per cent this week. He said health worker absences had also increased. "This is a statement of how serious things are," he said. Also read | Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists Meanwhile, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron cases surge in UK is hinting towards a new wave

With the UK witnessing a surge in the number of coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant, countries around the world are looking to impose restrictions on the British travellers. &nbsp;

In the recent development, Germany has banned most travellers from Britain to contain Omicron variant’s spread. &nbsp;

It is the latest European nation to come up with this directive. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-says-uk-scientists-438070" hreflang="en">Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists</a>

German nationals, who are in the UK, can return but they must have a negative test report and would have to undergo quarantine for two weeks, irrespective of whether they have been vaccinated or not. &nbsp;

The stringent measures, which have been announced by federal health agency Robert-Koch-Institut, will take effect from Sunday evening. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Germany has also added Denmark, France, Norway and Lebanon to the high-risk list. The travel from these countries will also be restricted. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, If UK media reports are to be believed, the British government seems to be looking to impose a short two-week circuit breaker lockdown. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-big-blow-to-uk-government-brexit-minister-david-frost-resigns-438073" hreflang="en">In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns</a>

The measure may be taken after Christmas celebrations to keep a check on the spread of Omicron variant of Covid.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The government seems to be in the process of drafting regulations of the lockdown currently, the reports said citing a meeting of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), whose details have been leaked. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the UK witnessing a surge in the number of coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant, countries around the world are looking to impose restrictions on the British travellers.

With the UK witnessing a surge in the number of coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant, countries around the world are looking to impose restrictions on the British travellers. In the recent development, Germany has banned most travellers from Britain to contain Omicron variant’s spread. It is the latest European nation to come up with this directive. Also Read: Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists German nationals, who are in the UK, can return but they must have a negative test report and would have to undergo quarantine for two weeks, irrespective of whether they have been vaccinated or not. The stringent measures, which have been announced by federal health agency Robert-Koch-Institut, will take effect from Sunday evening. Germany has also added Denmark, France, Norway and Lebanon to the high-risk list. The travel from these countries will also be restricted. Meanwhile, If UK media reports are to be believed, the British government seems to be looking to impose a short two-week circuit breaker lockdown. Also Read: In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns The measure may be taken after Christmas celebrations to keep a check on the spread of Omicron variant of Covid. The government seems to be in the process of drafting regulations of the lockdown currently, the reports said citing a meeting of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), whose details have been leaked. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, Germany imposes restrictions on UK travellers to check Omicron spread

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. &nbsp;

This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-incident-declares-london-mayor-sadiq-khan-amid-omicron-threat-438028" hreflang="en">'Major incident', declares London mayor Sadiq Khan amid Omicron threat</a>&nbsp;

In a letter to Johnson, Brexit Minister David Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month. &nbsp;

In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.'' &nbsp;

The leader also said that the process of leaving the EU seems to be a long-term job. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-says-uk-scientists-438070" hreflang="en">Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists</a>

A report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister gave resignation due to the growing resentment against the government. The recent coronavirus restrictions imposed by the government seems to have led to his decision, said the newspaper.&nbsp;

Frost, in his resignation, said that the UK needed to "learn to live with Covid. ... You took a brave decision in July, against considerable opposition, to open up the country again. Sadly, it did not prove to be irreversible, as I wished, and believe you did too. I hope we can get back on track soon and not be tempted by the kind of coercive measures we have seen elsewhere." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies.

In a major blow to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government, a senior member of the Cabinet resigned on Saturday. This comes as the government has been struggling to save its face due to involvement in numerous controversies. Also Read: 'Major incident', declares London mayor Sadiq Khan amid Omicron threat In a letter to Johnson, Brexit Minister David Frost said that he was resigning immediately after a report said that he was looking to step down next month. In resignation letter, Frost said, "That is why we agreed earlier this month that I would move on in January and hand over the baton to others to manage our future relationship with the EU.'' The leader also said that the process of leaving the EU seems to be a long-term job. Also Read: Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, says UK scientists A report by the Daily Mail claimed that the minister gave resignation due to the growing resentment against the government. The recent coronavirus restrictions imposed by the government seems to have led to his decision, said the newspaper. Frost, in his resignation, said that the UK needed to "learn to live with Covid. ... You took a brave decision in July, against considerable opposition, to open up the country again. Sadly, it did not prove to be irreversible, as I wished, and believe you did too. I hope we can get back on track soon and not be tempted by the kind of coercive measures we have seen elsewhere." (With inputs from agencies)

In a big blow to UK government, Brexit Minister David Frost resigns

Brexit minister, Lord David Frost, has resigned as the man in charge of overseeing matters related to Britain’s exit from the European Union (EU) amid opposition to lockdown restrictions due to a surge of the Omicron variant.

Brexit minister David Frost resigns, massive jolt to UK PM Boris Johnson

In a bizarre incident, a pet monkey, who had been drugged with cocaine and flushed down a toilet by owner in UK, has been recovering, an animal sanctuary said. &nbsp;

The owner, Vicki Holland, who belongs to Newport, has been banned from keeping animals for life.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-bizarre-accident-us-official-finds-two-alligators-in-suv-at-mishap-site-437889" hreflang="en">A bizarre accident? US official finds two alligators in SUV at mishap site</a>&nbsp;

The development comes after the police found video footage of the woman abusing Milly, the marmoset. &nbsp;

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) had rescued the animal. It was also housed at the Monkey World Sanctuary in Dorset. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
**Upsetting content** 
 
We rescued marmoset Milly after footage revealed her owner attempting to flush her down the toilet and offering her drugs 😭🐒💔 We prosecuted, and Milly's now safe and sound at Monkey World: <a href="https://t.co/9CLsxKfn4Q">https://t.co/9CLsxKfn4Q</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldMonkeyDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldMonkeyDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/PHL2la1vCr">pic.twitter.com/PHL2la1vCr</a>
— RSPCA (England &amp; Wales) (@RSPCA_official) <a href="https://twitter.com/RSPCA_official/status/1470825671660294153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Dr Angela Cronin, who works at Monkey World, said that Milly had been "very, very traumatised" when she first arrived at the facility but it was like a "light switched on" when she started mixing with other marmosets. &nbsp;

The animal has already found a close companion in a fellow marmoset, Moon. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/corals-in-the-great-barrier-reef-could-become-target-of-mass-bleaching-438108" hreflang="en">Corals in the Great Barrier Reef could become target of mass bleaching</a>

Several reports of cruel behaviour have been witnessed around the world. Numerous governments have also laid down guidelines and formed laws to keep a check on these activities. &nbsp;

Not just this, several organisations around the world have been making concerted efforts for animals’ welfare in many ways. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a bizarre incident, a pet monkey, who had been drugged with cocaine and flushed down a toilet by owner in UK, has been recovering, an animal sanctuary said. The owner, Vicki Holland, who belongs to Newport, has been banned from keeping animals for life.

In a bizarre incident, a pet monkey, who had been drugged with cocaine and flushed down a toilet by owner in UK, has been recovering, an animal sanctuary said. The owner, Vicki Holland, who belongs to Newport, has been banned from keeping animals for life. Also Read: A bizarre accident? US official finds two alligators in SUV at mishap site The development comes after the police found video footage of the woman abusing Milly, the marmoset. Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) had rescued the animal. It was also housed at the Monkey World Sanctuary in Dorset. **Upsetting content** We rescued marmoset Milly after footage revealed her owner attempting to flush her down the toilet and offering her drugs 😭🐒💔 We prosecuted, and Milly's now safe and sound at Monkey World: https://t.co/9CLsxKfn4Q #WorldMonkeyDay pic.twitter.com/PHL2la1vCr — RSPCA (England & Wales) (@RSPCA_official) December 14, 2021 × Dr Angela Cronin, who works at Monkey World, said that Milly had been "very, very traumatised" when she first arrived at the facility but it was like a "light switched on" when she started mixing with other marmosets. The animal has already found a close companion in a fellow marmoset, Moon. Also Read: Corals in the Great Barrier Reef could become target of mass bleaching Several reports of cruel behaviour have been witnessed around the world. Numerous governments have also laid down guidelines and formed laws to keep a check on these activities. Not just this, several organisations around the world have been making concerted efforts for animals’ welfare in many ways. (With inputs from agencies)

After getting drugged with cocaine and flushed by owner, pet monkey recovers in UK

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time.&nbsp;

Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">Also read |&nbsp;No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.&nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time. Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists

New Highway Code in the United Kingdom gives priority to cyclists and pedestrians over motorists at junctions, which has been deemed "confusion" in several local media reports.&nbsp;

In the UK, the Highway Code is essential reading for those who are suing the road in one way or another, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists.&nbsp;

A summary of the proposed changes, which are coming into force on January 29, was published on December 1. The report mentioned that the Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.&nbsp;

New code introduces a "hierarchy of road users" which ensures that those road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others.&nbsp;

The code further states that clarifying existing rules on pedestrian priority on pavements and that drivers and riders should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road.&nbsp;

Also, establishing guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists or horse riders. The code is also meant to ensure that they have priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead.&nbsp;

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "The proposed upcoming changes to The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders."

It is important to note that the new rules are subject to getting parliamentary approval and in case if MPs don't vote to oppose, it will come into place automatically.&nbsp;

Apart from increasing cars' responsibility around cyclists and pedestrians, the Code also mentions some mention-worthy changes. Also, as per the changed rule, there's a ban on flashing your lights.

The riders will be told to give way to pedestrians on shared-use cycle tracks, cars indicating a left or right turn will have to give way to cyclists coming from behind or moving straight on.&nbsp;

"The aim of The Highway Code is to promote safety on the road, whilst also supporting a healthy, sustainable and efficient transport system," part of the report read.&nbsp;

British media quoted AA president Edmund King, who highlighted how the changes can be problematic. He said: "With such fundamental changes to the Highway Code taking place to make our roads safer, we need to ensure road users understand the new rules ahead of time."

"Getting the message out now would help avoid dangerous situations and remove any confusion on the roads before the new rules are adopted," he added.&nbsp;

New Highway Code in the United Kingdom gives priority to cyclists and pedestrians over motorists at junctions, which has been deemed "confusion" in several local media reports.

New Highway Code in the United Kingdom gives priority to cyclists and pedestrians over motorists at junctions, which has been deemed "confusion" in several local media reports. In the UK, the Highway Code is essential reading for those who are suing the road in one way or another, including pedestrians, mobility scooter users, cyclists, horse riders, drivers and motorcyclists. A summary of the proposed changes, which are coming into force on January 29, was published on December 1. The report mentioned that the Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders. New code introduces a "hierarchy of road users" which ensures that those road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to others. The code further states that clarifying existing rules on pedestrian priority on pavements and that drivers and riders should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road. Also, establishing guidance on safe passing distances and speeds when overtaking cyclists or horse riders. The code is also meant to ensure that they have priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead. A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "The proposed upcoming changes to The Highway Code will improve safety for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders." It is important to note that the new rules are subject to getting parliamentary approval and in case if MPs don't vote to oppose, it will come into place automatically. Apart from increasing cars' responsibility around cyclists and pedestrians, the Code also mentions some mention-worthy changes. Also, as per the changed rule, there's a ban on flashing your lights. The riders will be told to give way to pedestrians on shared-use cycle tracks, cars indicating a left or right turn will have to give way to cyclists coming from behind or moving straight on. "The aim of The Highway Code is to promote safety on the road, whilst also supporting a healthy, sustainable and efficient transport system," part of the report read. British media quoted AA president Edmund King, who highlighted how the changes can be problematic. He said: "With such fundamental changes to the Highway Code taking place to make our roads safer, we need to ensure road users understand the new rules ahead of time." "Getting the message out now would help avoid dangerous situations and remove any confusion on the roads before the new rules are adopted," he added.

UK's new Highway Code rule change gives priority to cyclists and pedestrians over drivers

Harvard scientist tells a UK committee investigating COVID-19 that there is no evidence that the virus originated from animal and lab leak from Wuhan is likely the cause of COVID.

Harvard scientist to UK committee: Wuhan lab leak likely cause of COVID

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has held a Downing Street press conference after the UK reported a record 78,610 daily COVID-19 infections amid surging transmission of the Omicron variant.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds a COVID-19 press conference from Downing Street

UK has reported highest number of cases since the pandemic struck last year. Over 78,000 new cases have been confirmed in UK in a single day. The tally is around 10,000 more than the previous highest figure in the month of January this year. UK PM Boris Johnson had earlier stressed on the need of booster doses to combat the situation arising out of the new Omicron variant in the UK. In the wake of continuously rising cases of Omicron variant, Chief Medical Officer of England Prof Chris Whitty has asked people to get their booster doses as soon as possible.

Omicron: UK reports over 78,000 new cases, highest spike in a day since January

On Wednesday, the United Kingdom (UK) recorded the highest number of daily COVID-19 cases since the beginning of the pandemic, with 78,610 new cases largely due to the Omicron variant spread.

UK confirms 78,610 daily COVID-19 cases, highest figure since start of pandemic

During the Covid pandemic, we Britons have developed a tabloid obsession with “saving Christmas,” as if it were a beloved pet in danger of being run over.

Yet our Christmas is indeed in peril. The Omicron coronavirus variant, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson said could lead to a “tidal wave” of cases, threatens to upend people’s best-laid festive plans. After last year, when the government imposed restrictions on household mixing on the cusp of Christmas, the possibility of yet another fractured Yuletide is close to retraumatizing the nation.

Ominously, the Christmas tree the Norwegians give us every year to stand in Trafalgar Square, in thanks for Britain’s help during World War II, is notably spindly and bare this winter.

To make matters worse, our responsible queen has been unwell. A royal biographer described her as entering a new phase, as if she were developing an obsession with goth aesthetics. And amid it all, Mr. Johnson’s government has sunk to new lows of corruption, sleaze and shrugging incompetence. The mood is far from merry.

It was very different earlier in the year. The government rolled out vaccines faster than any other country in Europe, and Britain hosted the Group of 7 meeting and a global climate summit in November. Any adverse effects of Brexit could be blamed on the pandemic. Things felt shinier for a while, especially if you didn’t look too closely at the rising child poverty figures or the government’s plans to curtail protest, criminalize refugees and exert more control over the judiciary.

But winter is here. New restrictions, called Plan B, are being rolled out. People in England are advised to work from home, and masks and Covid passes will be mandatory in more places. The rules, as ever under Mr. Johnson, feel arbitrary and ill thought out. Work from home, but go to the pantomime; wear a mask in a taxi but not in a pub. And we don’t know what further restrictions will be imposed as Omicron spreads. The problem is: Will people follow them when it is likely that Mr. Johnson — if the past is any indication — will not?

After all, breaking restrictions is precisely what has landed him in trouble. In December last year, according to multiple sources, there was a party at 10 Downing Street, the prime minister’s official residence. At the time, parties were forbidden, and people were dying of Covid-19 in hospitals all over Britain, denied the comfort of their loved ones. That parties should come back to haunt Mr. Johnson is ironic, since we liked him for his levity. But levity, in a time of pandemic, is less charming than it once was.

The details of the party have emerged inch by inch. Then last week, a video was leaked in which the prime minister’s advisers pondered how to answer media questions about the party. His spokeswoman Allegra Stratton, who has since resigned, giggled as she said, “This fictional party was a business meeting — and it was not socially distanced.”

They all laughed. And in that laughter, it was horribly clear that Mr. Johnson’s tendency to surround himself with the inexperienced and entitled leaves a vacuum where a functioning government should be. Ms. Stratton was hired to be the voice of his government and to give a daily briefing in the American style. In the end, only one was broadcast — and it was a rehearsal, a fake.

There is every sign that the spell Mr. Johnson cast over the country is cracking, that people are waking up to the truth of him. The latest polls show the Conservative Party sliding to second place while Mr. Johnson’s approval ratings continue their descent. It feels a long time since the elections in December 2019, when the country gave him an enormous majority of 80 seats.

In retrospect, the election campaign was explicitly romantic. Mr. Johnson’s highest-profile campaign advert was a parody of a scene from the film “Love Actually,” in which a man stands outside a married woman’s home and tells her, using written signs, that he loves her. (Yes, it’s creepy.) The signs in the ad were Brexit-related — “With any luck, by next year we’ll have Brexit done” — but the meaning was clear. Mr. Johnson was a lover, and the country was seduced.

Infatuations die hard but fast. Now two-thirds of the country does not trust him, and half thinks he should resign. The mood in his Conservative Party is, according to one member, “sulfurous.” Even cabinet ministers believe he has imposed Plan B to distract from the “party crisis.” Many Conservative legislators, furious at the prime minister, are planning to oppose the new restrictions. A local election on Thursday, caused by the resignation of a corrupt legislator Mr. Johnson had disastrously tried to save, might suggest how alienated Conservative voters are.

Elsewhere, allegations of corruption continue to mount. There is a long-brewing scandal over the funding of the renovation of Mr. Johnson’s flat on Downing Street. (The redecoration was predictably garish.) Last week the Electoral Commission fined the Conservative Party 17,800 pounds, or about $23,500, for not accurately reporting the donations that paid for the refurbishment — and the government standards adviser is reportedly considering resigning after apparently being misled by Mr. Johnson.

If it all seems trivial, then so is Mr. Johnson. The country faces serious problems — not just the pandemic and the fallout from Brexit but also an energy crisis, economic stagnation and vertiginous inflation. There is no sign that the prime minister can see, much less solve, them. A brinkman seeing how far he can go, he is too preoccupied with his survival. His address to the nation on Sunday night was a tellingly tired, perfunctory affair. It could have been an email.

As we watch Mr. Johnson’s narrative play out, Britain feels like a country put on hold. We don’t know whether the prime minister can save himself, let alone Christmas.

During the Covid pandemic, we Britons have developed a tabloid obsession with “saving Christmas,” as if it were a beloved pet in danger of being run over. Yet our Christmas is indeed in peril.

During the Covid pandemic, we Britons have developed a tabloid obsession with “saving Christmas,” as if it were a beloved pet in danger of being run over. Yet our Christmas is indeed in peril. The Omicron coronavirus variant, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson said could lead to a “tidal wave” of cases, threatens to upend people’s best-laid festive plans. After last year, when the government imposed restrictions on household mixing on the cusp of Christmas, the possibility of yet another fractured Yuletide is close to retraumatizing the nation. Ominously, the Christmas tree the Norwegians give us every year to stand in Trafalgar Square, in thanks for Britain’s help during World War II, is notably spindly and bare this winter. To make matters worse, our responsible queen has been unwell. A royal biographer described her as entering a new phase, as if she were developing an obsession with goth aesthetics. And amid it all, Mr. Johnson’s government has sunk to new lows of corruption, sleaze and shrugging incompetence. The mood is far from merry. It was very different earlier in the year. The government rolled out vaccines faster than any other country in Europe, and Britain hosted the Group of 7 meeting and a global climate summit in November. Any adverse effects of Brexit could be blamed on the pandemic. Things felt shinier for a while, especially if you didn’t look too closely at the rising child poverty figures or the government’s plans to curtail protest, criminalize refugees and exert more control over the judiciary. But winter is here. New restrictions, called Plan B, are being rolled out. People in England are advised to work from home, and masks and Covid passes will be mandatory in more places. The rules, as ever under Mr. Johnson, feel arbitrary and ill thought out. Work from home, but go to the pantomime; wear a mask in a taxi but not in a pub. And we don’t know what further restrictions will be imposed as Omicron spreads. The problem is: Will people follow them when it is likely that Mr. Johnson — if the past is any indication — will not? After all, breaking restrictions is precisely what has landed him in trouble. In December last year, according to multiple sources, there was a party at 10 Downing Street, the prime minister’s official residence. At the time, parties were forbidden, and people were dying of Covid-19 in hospitals all over Britain, denied the comfort of their loved ones. That parties should come back to haunt Mr. Johnson is ironic, since we liked him for his levity. But levity, in a time of pandemic, is less charming than it once was. The details of the party have emerged inch by inch. Then last week, a video was leaked in which the prime minister’s advisers pondered how to answer media questions about the party. His spokeswoman Allegra Stratton, who has since resigned, giggled as she said, “This fictional party was a business meeting — and it was not socially distanced.” They all laughed. And in that laughter, it was horribly clear that Mr. Johnson’s tendency to surround himself with the inexperienced and entitled leaves a vacuum where a functioning government should be. Ms. Stratton was hired to be the voice of his government and to give a daily briefing in the American style. In the end, only one was broadcast — and it was a rehearsal, a fake. There is every sign that the spell Mr. Johnson cast over the country is cracking, that people are waking up to the truth of him. The latest polls show the Conservative Party sliding to second place while Mr. Johnson’s approval ratings continue their descent. It feels a long time since the elections in December 2019, when the country gave him an enormous majority of 80 seats. In retrospect, the election campaign was explicitly romantic. Mr. Johnson’s highest-profile campaign advert was a parody of a scene from the film “Love Actually,” in which a man stands outside a married woman’s home and tells her, using written signs, that he loves her. (Yes, it’s creepy.) The signs in the ad were Brexit-related — “With any luck, by next year we’ll have Brexit done” — but the meaning was clear. Mr. Johnson was a lover, and the country was seduced. Infatuations die hard but fast. Now two-thirds of the country does not trust him, and half thinks he should resign. The mood in his Conservative Party is, according to one member, “sulfurous.” Even cabinet ministers believe he has imposed Plan B to distract from the “party crisis.” Many Conservative legislators, furious at the prime minister, are planning to oppose the new restrictions. A local election on Thursday, caused by the resignation of a corrupt legislator Mr. Johnson had disastrously tried to save, might suggest how alienated Conservative voters are. Elsewhere, allegations of corruption continue to mount. There is a long-brewing scandal over the funding of the renovation of Mr. Johnson’s flat on Downing Street. (The redecoration was predictably garish.) Last week the Electoral Commission fined the Conservative Party 17,800 pounds, or about $23,500, for not accurately reporting the donations that paid for the refurbishment — and the government standards adviser is reportedly considering resigning after apparently being misled by Mr. Johnson. If it all seems trivial, then so is Mr. Johnson. The country faces serious problems — not just the pandemic and the fallout from Brexit but also an energy crisis, economic stagnation and vertiginous inflation. There is no sign that the prime minister can see, much less solve, them. A brinkman seeing how far he can go, he is too preoccupied with his survival. His address to the nation on Sunday night was a tellingly tired, perfunctory affair. It could have been an email. As we watch Mr. Johnson’s narrative play out, Britain feels like a country put on hold. We don’t know whether the prime minister can save himself, let alone Christmas.

Boris Johnson is in trouble

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The United kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson answered questions in parliament's last session ahead of Christmas recess.

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