Ministers are urging an end to working from home in a bid to boost the economy.
Although scientists have argued that the measure is one of the most effective in limiting the spread of the coronavirus, ministers are demanding that the prime minister lift the guidance by the end of the month.
The current restrictions, known as Plan B, include guidance to work from home if you can, to wear masks indoors and require vaccination passports for large events. They expire on 26 January and will be reviewed in a fortnight by ministers.