Covid vaccinations could become compulsory in Germany from February, after the issue is set to be debated in parliament.

A “lockdown for the unvaccinated” is also set to be rolled out, in which people without Covid vaccinations will be refused entry to “non-essential” shops and events, unless they can evidence a recent recovery from the virus.

“Culture and leisure nationwide will be open only to those who have been vaccinated or recovered,” outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel said today.

Nightlife venues will also be forced to shut if case numbers rocket, she announced.

Covid vaccinations could become compulsory in Germany from February, after the issue is set to be debated in its parliament.

Last week Austria became the first western nation to impose compulsory vaccinations, while Greece is set to make jabs obligatory for people over 60.