LIVE: Coronavirus updates as Health Secretary Matt Hancock updates MPs
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has told MPs a new variant of coronavirus has been linked to the increased spread of the disease in the South East.
The Health Secretary revealed the discovery as he set explained that tier three restrictions would apply to parts of Essex and Hertfordshire in a Commons statement.
More than 1,000 cases have been identified in almost 60 local authority areas.
Similar cases have been seen in other countries.
REFRESH for updates.