The government is on the brink of telling pubs and restaurants in parts of northern England that they must close once more following a surge in new Covid-19 cases
More than 50,000 people have tested positive for coronavirus in a week in England – just as the success of contact-tracers hits a new low.
New data today shows 51,475 people tested positive in the week to September 30, a 56% rise on the previous week.
Meanwhile government is poised to force pubs and restaurants to close in coronavirus hotspots in the north – sparking a furious backlash.
Latest data shows a surge in cases in Manchester, Liverpool, Knowsley and Newcastle despite tightened lockdown measures.
Number 10 is preparing to announce that hospitality services will again be made to shut their doors from Monday.
The move comes after Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon yesterday announced a clampdown on indoor drinking north of the border.
