The UK government is considering even tougher restrictions to contain the new mutated variant of COVID-19.
Its scientific advisers have warned that tougher rules will probably be needed.
In England at present more than 17 million people are under Tier 4 rules – the highest level – with people being told to stay at home and not leave the area.
Scotland is moving into its highest alert level 4 on Boxing Day and Northern Ireland will begin a lockdown on the same day.
Wales, where the NHS is under great pressure, has already entered a new national lockdown.
