Cases hit a high for the second day running, with 119,789 reported in 24 hours - up 35 per cent on the last Thursday and putting a dampener on hopes that the variant could be less of a threat.
Boris Johnson has delayed decisions on toughening up Covid rules until after Christmas Day with the government stressing that there is not yet compelling evidence on whether they are needed.
Britain s Rail Delivery Group has said that around one in 20 train services were cancelled in the past week - up from an average of one in 40 this year.
Rishi Sunak announced a £1billion bailout for the hospitality industry yesterday to help firms hit by a collapse in Christmas bookings. But there was a mixed reaction from businesses.
The Chancellor has come forward with additional help for the hospitality and leisure sectors in England following days of urgent lobbying from MPs, firms and industry officials.