The central government is leaning toward at least partially lifting the COVID-19 state of emergency covering 19 prefectures, including Tokyo, at the end of the month as scheduled, government and ruling party sources said Tuesday.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is expected to make a final decision next Tuesday, the sources said.

Under the state of emergency, people are being urged to avoid going to crowded areas while restaurants are asked to close by 8 p.m. and not to serve alcohol. Attendance at large events such as concerts and sports games is limited to 5,000 or 50% of venue capacity, whichever number is smaller.