Fresh support needed if UK lockdowns linger, warn business leaders

Country is on course for a short-term boom this summer, but concern mounts over India Covid variant

• UK recovery overshadowed by inflation and new Covid variants
• Hospitality sector hasn't reached the champagne moment yet'

Boris Johnson has been warned by business leaders that a fresh package of economic support would be required if rising Covid-19 infections prevent the further relaxation of pandemic restrictions next month.

After the reopening of hospitality venues indoors across all four nations of the UK, the Guardian's latest monthly assessment of economic developments suggests the country is on course for a short-term growth boom this summer.