The first steps to loosen the lockdown could be made from next Friday.

The Chief Minister, who is said to be recovering well from coronavirus, will make an announcement next week.

News about the potential changes was broken by Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan today.

He said that, over the past ten days, members of various government departments had were assessing potential changes to lockdown measures.

They would herald ’a gradual return to normality while social distancing guidelines continue to be observed’.

The Council of Ministers have been briefed and Tynwald Members have been provided with an overview of our outline assessment and plans but the work continues.

Mr Cannan said: ’We are completing a fully co-ordinated and workable plan to move the island forward that takes into account many factors but one which is underpinned by a robust health strategy.

’It is currently our intention that the Chief Minister will take you through this work and our plans in detail next week but what I can say to you is that we are seeking, all things being equal, to commence a carefully phased and structured return to work from next Friday for some sectors including construction, associated trades and horticulture.’

He added that would only be possible if people adhered to the guidelines that are currently in place for the next seven days.