Coronavirus Australia live news: ‘New variant’ of COVID-19 identified in England as London tightens restrictions

London tightens restrictions as new variant of COVID-19 identified

In the UK, London is heading into a tier three lockdown, which is the strictest level of restrictions in England. The move includes Greater London as well as parts of Essex an Hertfordshire. 

All pubs and restaurants will shut unless they offer takeaway, but shops, schools and gyms will remain open.

It comes as UK health authorities have identified what they’re calling a “new variant” of coronavirus, which could be linked to a surge in cases in the south of England.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock says the there is currently “nothing to suggest that the variant is more likely to cause serious disease, and the latest clinical advice is that it’s highly unlikely that this…