The Government is set to force Greater Manchester into Tier 3 lockdown after talks over financial compensation for the move broke down today.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has a press conference scheduled for 5pm, when he is expected to announce the measures.
The widely reported negotiation deadline of midday today came and went, as talks remained ongoing between Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and the Prime Minister.
However, those talks have broken down and it is believed that the Government could not match the amount of financial compensation – reportedly £75m – asked for by Manchester council leaders.
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick, who had set the deadline, said: “I’m disappointed that despite recognising the gravity of the situation, the Mayor of Greater Manchester has been unwilling to take the action that is required to get the spread of the virus under control in Greater Manchester and reach an agreement with the government.”
Liverpool has already been put into Tier 3 restrictions, and talks about Manchester moving from its current Tier 2 status had laboured over the weekend.
Under Tier 3 restrictions, people would not be able to meet or mix with people outside of their household or support bubble, even in most outdoor spaces.
Pubs and bars must also close unless they are operating as a restaurant, and alcohol may only be served as part of a meal.
Comparatively, in Tier 2, the ‘Rule of Six’ applies in all outdoor spaces meaning households can mix outside, and pubs and bars can remain open.
Burnham previously said he would uphold the law and accept the outcome if the Government enforced Tier 3 lockdown.
Rules on Tier 3 lockdown can be found here.
