Andy Burnham will respond to the “provocative” ultimatum with a “fair figure” for the city – after a letter seen by the Mirror showed he was being offered just £8 per head of confirmed funding

Last night Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick wrote to local leaders in the region giving them until midday today to reach a deal – or have Tier 3 imposed upon them.

He said: “The deteriorating public health situation in Greater Manchester means that we need to take action urgently.”

The Cabinet minister claimed the Government had held discussions “in good faith” for 10 days with local leaders – despite turning down pleas for more financial support for jobs and businesses.

But last night’s letter, seen by the Mirror, shows the government was offering the region just £22m of confirmed funds – £8 per head – and still only “looking at” additional funding to help businesses.

Mr Burnham today branded the letter “provocative”, saying the “late-night ultimatum” was “a bit odd” when the government hadn’t yet concluded talks over funds.

The metro mayor told Sky News businesses are “on the brink” and “close to collapse” while the government is “trying to penny pinch on Tier 3”.