THE Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to unveil new lockdown restrictions for England - with much of the North expected to see tighter new rules.

For the past week, speculation on what the PM will announce has been reported with suggestion that pubs and restaurants could shut in hardest-hit areas.

LIVE: Boris to announce new Covid rules for the North-East and North Yorkshire

A new "three-tier" system, designed to simplify lockdown rules has also been tipped for announcement with some of the region expected to see the tightest rules.

The Northern Echo:

But when is the announcement set to take place?

The PM is expected to make a statement to the House of Commons at around 3.30pm, where he is understood will outline the basic rules.

The PM will then lead the Downing Street press conference, where it is understood he will expand on the new measures and three-tier system. 

This is set to take place at around 6pm. 

He will be joined by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty.

  • Throughout today, The Northern Echo will be bringing you live coverage and reaction of the new announcement as it happens.