Calls for national lockdown in England as they overtake Wales for worst Covid-19 rate in the UK

There have been calls for a national lockdown in England as they have overtaken Wales for the highest Covid-19 rate in the UK.

Wales had the worst seven day rolling Covid case rate in the UK since the 26th November but was overtaken by England on the first of January, according to the latest data.

Today Wales recorded 71 cases per 100,000 compared to 81 in England.

Keir Starmer, Labour leader, said the virus was “out of control” and called for a repeat of November’s national lockdown within 24 hours.

This morning Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned that England faced tougher Covid-19 restrictions and possible further school closures as cases surged in the south-east of the country.

“We are entirely reconciled to do what it takes to get the virus under control; that may involve tougher measures in the weeks ahead,” Mr Johnson told the BBC’s Andrew Marr.

“The question is can we bring the virus under control and keep schools open? We will keep things under constant review.”

Keir Starmer meanwhile said it was “inevitable more schools will close.”

‘Evidence’

In Wales, Education Minister Kirsty Williams meanwhile confirmed that schools would open as normal over the next two weeks.

“We agreed before Christmas a flexible return to school in January, so that local decisions can be made based on local circumstances,” she said.

“Some schools return next week, with the majority open fully by 18 January, with remote learning until then.

“We continue to monitor and publish the latest evidence, and our science advisory group TAG meets again this week.”