A NEW tier of coronavirus restrictions could soon be introduced, a Whitehall source has said.

A so-called ‘Tier 5’ lockdown could affect millions of people within the next week as the new variants of Covid-19 continue to spread rapidly across the country.

A senior Whitehall source told The Express: "We are ruling nothing out, the new strain is of serious concern.

"Tier 4 appears not to be strong enough."

Read here: What would a Tier 5 lockdown look like?

The source suggested new restrictions may have to be put in place, warning the Government could add "another level onto Tier 4, so like a Tier 5."

Coronavirus cases across the UK have continued to rise over the Christmas period, creating fears that the NHS could become overwhelmed.

Yesterday 41,385 Covid cases and 357 deaths were recorded in the UK. 

Read also: Should Coronavirus restrictions be eased for New Year's Eve?

NHS England also said the number of people being treated for the virus in hospital is now 20,426, which is higher than the previous peak of about 19,000 in April.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has not ruled out a third national lockdown and a review of the current Tier system is set to take place tomorrow.

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