Confirmation that Christmas rules will be relaxed in all four UK nations after more talks

All four nations have agreed to relax rules over the Christmas period – despite recent calls for them to be tightened.

Ministers of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland have decided to stick with their original plan to loosen regulations from December 23-27, allowing people to form ‘Christmas bubbles’ in which different households can mix indoors.

However, according to the BBC, “the final wording of the agreement is [still] being worked on.”

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The government will not reverse its decision to ease COVID-19 restrictions over the Christmas period despite the rise in cases but will instead strengthen its messaging

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The UK government’s Christmas travel adviser, Sir Peter Hendy, said the public should “stay local” wherever possible.

People visiting other areas have been urged to book tickets early and ideally travel by car.

A joint statement from the four nations is expected shortly.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.