What did Boris Johnson say in his speech at 8pm today, January 4?

BORIS Johnson addressed the nation at 8pm today in a televised speech where he announced a third lockdown.

Here is what the said about how we can combat the new strain of coronavirus and what the latest restrictions mean.

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Earlier today, January 4, Health secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News the government "don't rule anything out" when it comes to imposing further restrictions.

Boris Johnson himself said that there was "no question" of tougher measures coming in the future.

What did Boris Johnson say in his announcement today?

Boris Johnson began by saying that the nation has been in a battle against the virus together, and described new variant as "frustrating", saying that it was "alarming" to see the speed at which it has spread.

The Prime Minister spoke on the pressure on hospitals, which is now worse than any other time during the pandemic.

He explained that we now need to do more to get the variant under control, and that therefore the government is once again instructing to us stay at home.

Johnson said that we must once again stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

As England enters a new national lockdown Boris Johnson has insisted "the end is in sight".

Referring to the vaccine rollout, he said: "Thanks to the miracle of science, not only is the end in sight - but we know exactly how we will get there."

It comes after Scotland announced a national lockdown beginning from 12am, January 5 amid fears that harsher restrictions were needed to control the spread.

What did Boris Johnson say about school closures?

Boris Johnson said that primary and secondary schools will be closed until the middle of February.

He said that it is not possible or fair for all exams to go ahead this summer and that the government will work with Ofqual on this.

The Prime Minister also said that extra support will be provided for kids who usually receive free school meals.

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