Advertisement

Coronavirus news: Manchester Tier 3 talks end without deal, as Wales imposes ‘firebreak’ restrictions

A digital display above a dual carriageway calls on residents to follow coronavirus guidelines in Manchester (AFP via Getty Images)
A digital display above a dual carriageway calls on residents to follow coronavirus guidelines in Manchester (AFP via Getty Images)

The government moved closer to imposing Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions on Greater Manchester after the latest round of talks collapsed without a deal.

Local leaders, including mayor Andy Burnham, had initially expressed hope an agreement could be reached on extra funding for the region on Monday, only for ministers to reject the proposals.

And on Monday night communities secretary Robert Jenrick issued a letter setting a deadline of 12pm on Tuesday to settle the dispute.

The government also held talks with several other regions in northern England, including the North East and South Yorkshire, over a move into Tier 3.

Meanwhile Wales announced a two-week “firebreak” lockdown will be imposed from 6pm on Friday to prevent the NHS from being overwhelmed.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said the “sharp and deep” new restrictions would last for 17 days and would require everyone except key workers to stay at home.

Ireland also confirmed it would begin a second national lockdown from midnight on Wednesday. The Level 5 restrictions will see schools stay open but non-essential businesses close. People will be told to stay at home for six weeks unless taking exercise within a 5km radius.

Irish premier Micheal Martin said the measures were necessary to curb the rise in cases and hospital admissions, adding: "As Taoiseach I am asking everyone again to take this threat seriously."