'Why are so many people wanting to carry on working from home when restrictions are lifted?'

The education secretary reports that in order to get all children back to their desks for the autumn term in a Covid secure setting, he will be guided by medical and scientific advice for schools to reopen safely. I for one support the Prime Minister to take on the teaching unions with a rousing educational social justice call.

In tandem, the Chancellor of the Exchequer informs us that keeping schools closed is economically unsustainable; and opening schools up again will kick-start the totemic test to reboot the economy in the light of the new corona-impacted economic reality. Other measures include the edict to get back to work when it is safe – I can’t see this being obeyed.

Apparently, six out of 10 adults like working from home and do not want to go back. That’s a pity because the workplace isn’t just where we earn a living. It’s where we learn the ins and outs of the job from experienced colleagues and where we make friends between the desks. It’s where you make essential contact over a sarnie at lunchtime, with a diverse, funny, generous bunch of people. Yes, some are workshy, over-ambitious and boring, but it’s called the great mix of life. I wouldn’t have missed it for the crown jewels. Some of my friendships made at work have lasted to this day. And rivalries too!

For my well-meant twopennyworth, it is vital to end the “lockout” from the office and stop being cocooned at home.

The workplace is an adventure – you never know what comes next.