Coronavirus: What time is Boris Johnson's press conference today?

Prime minister will be flanked by head of the NHS

Boris Johnson is set to speak from Downing Street this evening, on the first day of England’s new lockdown.

He will be flanked by NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens.

The televised press conference is due to start at 5pm and will be the prime minister’s first since announcing the new shutdown on 31 October.

It comes as chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the government’s furlough scheme will be extended until March – prompting speculation over whether Downing Street intends to extend the lockdown beyond the proposed four weeks.

The presence of Sir Simon suggests Mr Johnson may wish to again highlight the need for lockdown, which YouGov polling indicates has the support of 72 per cent of the public – down from 93 per cent in March.

During a tempestuous day in the Commons on Wednesday, the prime minister said some hospitals were already caring for more Covid-19 patients than during the first peak of infections.

All but 56 MPs approved the new measures, as the UK recorded nearly 500 new daily fatalities and more than 25,000 new infections.

Following accusations that past regulations, such as the three-tier system, have been confusing for the public, the prime minister may also wish to clarify the rules for England going forwards – which differ slightly from those introduced in March.

During the first lockdown, government ministers held a daily Downing Street press conference, typically accompanied by top health officials. 

While No 10 has since reportedly recruited former journalist Allegra Stratton to front future daily briefings, typically given to reporters off-camera, Downing Street has faced accusations of seeking to presidentialise the prime minister’s position.