National Cabinet to meet on Friday to discuss mutant UK strain of COVID-19

Premiers and chief ministers will hold a special meeting of National Cabinet on Friday to discuss the threat posed by a mutant strain of the COVID-19 virus that has emerged in the United Kingdom.

In a message posted on social media, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the meeting had been called following a request from the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly, and the national expert medical panel, the AHPPC.

State leaders will discuss a proposal to further strengthen the COVID safety protocols for international travel processes, particularly over growing concerns with the UK strain.

More to come.