What did Matt Hancock announce in his statement today, December 10?
MATT Hancock held a Downing Street press conference today, December 10.
The Health Secretary updated the country on the latest developments about the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
What time was the coronavirus press briefing today?
The coronavirus press briefing was at 5pm today.
What did Matt Hancock announce?
Matt Hancock gave an update on the Pfizer vaccine's rollout, which began this week.
He hailed the Pfizer vaccine rollout as a "series of world firsts" for the UK.
He said: "We've got health on the horizon. We can all see it with the vaccine, so don't blow it now."
Mr Hancock said there will be 10 more locations in England offering vaccines soon and from next week it will be available from GPs and care homes.
"We will keep on expanding to reach more and more people."
"When enough people are vaccinated and we see the figures coming down, we can start removing restrictions that have made this year so tough," the Health Secretary said.
He also updated the country on the latest coronavirus cases and deaths, and said he was concerned about rises in London, Essex and Kent.
In light of this, Mr Hancock said all schoolchildren in the worst hit parts of London, Essex and Kent will be tested.
"We've decided to put in place an immediate plan to test all secondary school children in the worst affected areas of London, in parts of Essex that border London, and parts of Kent," he said.
The Health Secretary urged Brits to continue respecting the social distancing guidelines, while New Years celebrations can only be spent with people in the same bubble.
He confirmed that a review of the tier system will take place on December 16.
The press conference came as GP surgeries are preparing to start booking Covid-19 vaccines, with appointments expected to begin next week.
Who joined him at the press conference?
The Health Secretary was joined by NHS England’s Professor Stephen Powis.
England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty also took part in the press conference.
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How can I watch the Covid briefings live?
You can watch the briefings live on most TV news channels.
You can also follow our coronavirus live blog for all the latest updates.
