• According to the latest government COVID-19 vaccination dashboard, 32,190,576 people have received a first dose of the COVID-19 jab, with 7,656,205 receiving a second dose (as of 12 April).
• This week people over 40 will be offered a COVID-19 jab.
• Today, step two of the government's easing of lockdown restrictions begins.

Commenting on the latest easing of lockdown restrictions, and the continuing roll-out of the vaccination programme, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson, said:

"While the latest easing of lockdown restrictions will be welcomed, we mustn't be complacent and should continue to follow social distancing rules. We know from previous experiences that too much relaxation too quickly can lead to an increase in transmission and hospitalisations.

"It is an incredible achievement that more than 32 million people have received their first vaccine, with over 7 million receiving their second jab.

We urge everyone to take their COVID-19 vaccine when they are offered it.

"While there is still a way to go with our vaccination programme, we welcome the progress being made, with the jabs due to be rolled out to the over 40s this week and all priority groups now offered a first dose. We urge everyone to take their COVID-19 vaccine when they are offered it.

"We owe a huge debt of gratitude to NHS staff and volunteers on the frontline, as well as health leaders, undertaking this huge logistical challenge to help protect us from the virus.

"As we return to pub gardens and sports activities and make our way back to non-essential shops, we must continue to do all that we can to prevent the spread of infection and ensure this lockdown will be the last."