Responding to the latest figures from NHS Test and Trace, the director of policy and strategy of NHS Providers, Miriam Deakin, said:

"We are really concerned to see that there were almost 400,000 positive cases of COVID-19 recorded in the week following New Year's eve. Despite a national lockdown, this is an increase of 21% on the previous week.

"However 34% more tests were carried out, following a dip over Christmas.

"More positive cases were transferred into the test and trace system this week, as some of the backlog from previous weeks is being caught up. There were also more close contacts identified this week, but the number of contacts per case remains very low.

"The amount of time taken for Pillar 2 test results to be turned around stayed steady, and with just 18% returned within 24 hours there is still room for much improvement.

"As the government reviews national lockdown measures in the coming weeks, it is vital that the test and trace system is effective and fit for purpose, as it plays a key role in keeping the virus under control."