I understood that this was originally a Covid-related exemption expiring at the end of March 2021
Far from it, it came out in 2016 and was the replacement for the HGV style medical required for the NPPL. Initially it was confined to non EASA licences, but has now expanded to cover all UK issued licences. Additionally, there are two different weight bands, 5700kgs and 2000kgs depending on your medical status. details here:
https://www.caa.co.uk/General-Aviati...rivate-pilots/