Coronavirus: Hancock concern over 'sharp rise' in cases

A 'sharp rise' in coronavirus cases in recent days in the UK is 'concerning', Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said. He told MPs that the increase had been across the whole country rather than in localised 'hotspots', but there was 'no inevitability' of a second spike. The government's scientific advisers have given stark warnings, after 2,948 new UK cases were recorded on Monday. Downing Street said it would not rule out reducing the number of people who could meet in groups in England. Asked whether the government was considering a change in guidance, the prime minister's official spokesman said the regulations were being kept under review. The guidance in England currently says two households can meet indoors. Outdoors up to six people from different households can meet - or up to 30 people from two households.