More than 1,500 lorries are stuck in Kent waiting to leave the UK as politicians thrash out a plan to reopen France’s border to trade and travel.
France shut its UK border for 48 hours on Sunday amid fears of a new coronavirus variant. More than 50 countries have now banned UK arrivals.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said 650 lorries are stacked up on the M20, with a further 873 at a lorry park.
The UK’s top scientist has warned the new variant is everywhere. Sir Patrick Vallance said further restrictions are likely to be needed in more areas of England.
In England, 17 million people are under tier four rules, the toughest level, where people are being told to stay at home and not leave the area.
Wales has entered a new national lockdown; Scotland has tightened rules and both Scotland and Northern Ireland will begin national lockdowns on Boxing Day.
