The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said doing so would help ease staff shortages and ensure there was a “confident” transition when the next stage of reopening takes place.

The majority of Covid restrictions are due to end on 19 July, but self-isolation rules will remain in place until 16 August.

Outlining a six-point plan, Tony Danker, director-general of the CBI, said: “Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy. But we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won’t work.

“Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister’s plans for the final stage of the reopening. What’s needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.”

The CBI wants the government to give more clarity on the future for workplace testing.

It is also calling for support for employees and customers to feel confident in using public transport by keeping mask wearing compliance under review.