Speaking of the new Covid strain recently discovered, Mr Johnson said: “Given the early evidence we have on this new variant of the virus, and the potential risk it poses, it is with a heavy heart that I must tell you we cannot continue with Christmas as planned.
“In England, those living in Tier 4 areas should not mix with anyone outside their own household at Christmas, though support bubbles will remain in place for those at particular risk of loneliness or isolation.”
The new Tier 4 rules will extend beyond Christmas as the country tries to grapple with the sky-high infection rate.
The Prime Minister added: “As before, there will be no relaxation on December 31, so people must not break the rules at New Year.”
