These are the parts of England at risk of moving into Tier 3 - according to Matt Hancock

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed large parts of the North of England are heading towards Tier 3 lockdown, as Covid-19 infection rates continue to soar.

At present, only Liverpool and Lancashire have been placed under a ‘very high’ local Covid alert (Tier 3), but several regions risk being subject to the tougher restrictions.

Ongoing talks with the North

Speaking in the House of Commons on 19 October, the Health Secretary updated MPs on the places in the UK which have been put into Tier 3, and went on to announce a broader list of areas where infection rates are rising.

Mr Hancock confirmed that talks about moving these areas into the very high alert level (Tier 3) have now begun.

Discussions with local leaders in South and West Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, the North East and Teeside are ongoing.

Addressing MPs, Mr Hancock said, “Following the successful introduction of measures in Liverpool and Lancashire, talks are continuing this afternoon led by the Communities Secretary with Greater Manchester, and this week further discussions are planned with South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, the North East and Teesside."