What’s going on in the UK: 18 November to 1 December

This week: Omicron fears, REF’s negative impacts, university strikes and more

‘Omicron’ fears

The UK government has told students and staff at universities in England to wear face masks in all communal areas under Covid-19 rules designed to slow the spread of the Omicron coronavirus variant. As part of a range of new restrictions, the Department for Education published guidance for schools, colleges and universities on rules that came into force on 29 November. The guidance reiterates that all staff and students should test themselves twice weekly using lateral flow devices, and those who have had close contact with someone suspected or confirmed as having the Omicron variant will be asked to isolate for 10 days.