These are the latest parts of England to enter Tier 4

During a briefing at Downing street today, Wednesday, December 23, Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed that more parts of East and South East of England would move into the highest tier on Boxing Day.

It comes as coronavirus cases continue to rise across the country and are expected to increase over the festive period following a new strain of the virus which is more infectious.

Already parts of London, the South East and the East of England are in Tier 4 following an announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday afternoon.

Now the Health Secretary has confirmed that Essex, Norfolk, Sussex, Surrey, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Hampshire will be placed into Tier 4 from midnight on Boxing Day, December 26.

His announcement came as he revealed that another new coronavirus variant from South Africa has been detected in the UK. Anyone who has been there in the last two weeks must quarantine immediately.

The Health Secretary told the press conference: “Just as we’ve got a tiered system in place that was able to control this virus, we’ve discovered a new more contagious virus, a variant that is spreading at a dangerous rate.”

He added: “Against this backdrop of rising infections, rising hospitalisations and rising numbers of people dying from coronavirus it is absolutely vital that we act.”

However there is no change for the North East, with the region continuing to be subject to Tier 3 restrictions.

Reminder: What are the Tier 3 restrictions?

Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes will remain closed except those operating a takeaway or click and collect service.

People must not meet socially indoors or in most outdoor places with anybody you do not live with or in a support bubble with - this includes in any private garden or at most outdoor venues.

People must not socialise in a group of more than six in some other outdoor public spaces, including parks, beaches.

Accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, and guest houses must stay closed.

There will be no public attendance at spectator sport or indoor performances.

For the full list click here.

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