PM visits the North East
Boris Johnson reviews new Covid tests
The Prime Minister's visited the North East to review new rapid covid tests which are being developed in Newcastle.
He praised the work of QuantuMDx who are looking to deliver more accurate testing devices which will issue results in under half an hour.
It comes as more areas in England are reporting variant Covid 19 cases.
Mr. Johnson told us is very confident that our vaccines will stand up against the mutations:
"We have no reason not to believe that our vaccines are effective in dealing both with death and serious illness with respect of all variants - I just think it's important for people to know that."
During his visit here, the Prime Minister acknowledged the struggle of businesses in the hospitality sector.
But, Mr. Johnson said the virus must be under control before they look at reopening the industry:
"We've got to continue the rollout of the vaccination programme. We've got to take one thing at a time and just be cautious. I'll be saying as much as I can in the next few days about the way ahead and what we think we can open up."
The Government's being pressured by a group of MPs to lay out clear criteria for easing coronavirus lockdown rules.
The Treasury Select Committee says the Prime Minister's roadmap should say exactly how and when restrictions will be lifted to give confidence to people and businesses.
Boris Johnson's due to reveal details in just over a week.