THE North-East could still face tighter Covid restrictions as leaders continue talks with the Prime Minister.

Speaking yesterday, Boris Johnson confirmed he is still in talks with leaders in the North West, the North-East and Yorkshire & Humber. 

Downing Street today could not confirm whether Mr Johnson wanted the North-East specifically to enter Tier 3 restrictions. 

Areas deemed 'very high' risk, Tier 3, would get more support for local test and trace, more funding for local enforcement and the offer of help from the armed services as well as the job support scheme as announced by the Chancellor.

At a televised press conference last night, Mr Johnson was asked why only Liverpool was placed under Tier 3 restrictions.

He said: "We want to take local authorities with us, obviously a local approach can be immensely valuable in enforcement. 

"We want to work with local authorities to deliver this. That's why we are offering the deals and solutions we are. 

"If we can't get agreement, then clearly it is the duty of national Government to take the necessary action to protect the public and public health - and we will."

Stockton, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool last week appealed for funding support to fight against spiralling Covid cases and to find solutions to ongoing problems - like visiting loved ones in care homes.

Darlington made separate but similar calls yesterday after its covid restrictions were increased. 

All four authorities are currently Tier 2.

Mr Johnson told Commons earlier in the day: "I know how difficult this is – they like us, like everyone in the House, are grappling with very real dilemmas - but we cannot let the NHS fall over when lives are at stake.

"I believe not to act would be unforgivable, so I hope that rapid progress can be made in the coming days."

Most areas which are already subject to local restrictions automatically move into the high alert level.

The 'very high' alert level will apply where transmission rates are rising most rapidly and where the NHS could soon be under unbearable pressure without further restrictions.

It is under Tier 3, which areas of the North-East could be upgraded to, that pubs and bars would close.

Mr Johnson said the Government is working with local government leaders on the additional measures which should be taken.

On the announcement, Redcar and Cleveland Council leader Mary Lanigan said she is disappointed with the Tier 2 measures and that the council did not ask for them. 

She said: "We did not request the additional measures and we are concerned about the effect they will have on people’s mental wellbeing and the risk to jobs and prosperity in our borough."

Ongoing talks could lead to further restrictions on the hospitality, leisure, entertainment or personal care sectors.

The tiered system replaces currently Covid rules and comes into force at midnight tonight, Wednesday, October 14.