Prime Minister Boris Johnson to hold Downing Street press conference this evening - this is when he will speak and what he's expected to say

Downing Street have confirmed that Boris Johnson will take questions from journalists and members of the public at 5pm tonight over the latest developments concerning the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Johnson is expected to give the public further details about the progress of the national coronavirus vaccination programme, after a nearly five million people are said to have received a dose of the vaccine across the UK.

The Government has repeatedly urged people not to break lockdown rules and to continue abiding by social distancing and non-household mixing measures, as it hopes to meet its target of vaccinating almost 14 million people by mid February.

Ministers are also considering paying £500 to everyone who tests positive for coronavirus to increase the number of people abiding by quarantine rules, according to a cabinet member.

Environment secretary George Eustice stressed the need for people to comply with the isolation rules when contacted by NHS Test and Trace in order to slow the spread of the virus, amid concerns of low compliance.

Scientists welcomed the suggestion of more financial support but Treasury sources were adamant the plan will not go ahead, with one telling the PA news agency bluntly: “Won’t happen.”

It is estimated the proposal of extending £500 payments to everyone who tests positive for Covid-19 in England, rather than just those who are on low incomes and are unable to work from home, would cost up to £453 million per week.

It is the ‘preferred position’ of Matt Hancock’s Department of Health and Social Care, according to a leaked document seen by The Guardian.

Mr Eustice told Sky News: “We do need people, if they are asked to self-isolate because they have been contacted through our Test and Trace, we do need them to self-isolate.

“And, obviously, we always review the reasons why they might not.”

On the payment, Mr Eustice added: “No decisions have been made on this.

“But this is a dynamic, fast-moving situation with the pandemic.

“We are always keeping multiple policies under review.”

Boris Johnson will speak to the nation at 5pm this evening.

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.