Omicron UK LIVE: Latest updates as Prime Minister confirms Christmas plans can go ahead

In a video message, the Prime Minister said "people can go ahead with their Christmas plans" as the situation was "finely balanced".

He said, despite Omicron driving up Covid case numbers and hospitalisations, there was not "enough evidence" to justify tougher restrictions before Christmas.

But he added the Government stood "ready to take action", prompting fears England will be facing new restrictions after Boxing Day.

The PM said the "situation remains extremely difficult" and that there is "no doubt that Omicron continues to surge with a speed unlike anything we’ve seen before".

He said: "So what I can say tonight, is that naturally we can’t rule out any further measures after Christmas - and we’re going to keep a constant eye on the data, and we’ll do whatever it takes to protect public health.

"But in view of the continuing uncertainty about several things – the severity of Omicron, uncertainty about the hospitalisation rate or the impact of the vaccine rollout or the boosters, we don’t think today that there is enough evidence to justify any tougher measures before Christmas.

"We continue to monitor Omicron very closely and if the situation deteriorates we will be ready to take action if needed."

He urged people to "get boosted now", adding: "What this means is that people can go ahead with their Christmas plans but the situation remains finely balanced and I would urge everyone to exercise caution, to keep protecting yourselves and your loved ones, especially the vulnerable.

"And remember to keep following the guidance - wear a mask indoors when required to do so, keep fresh air circulating, and take a test before you visit elderly or vulnerable relatives."