Responding to the latest figures from NHS Test and Trace, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson said:

"We are deeply concerned to see a 12% increase in the number of positive cases of COVID-19 recorded across the country, especially after the progress of the past few weeks. We are also troubled by what we anticipate may come in January, although we welcome Matt Hancock's announcement today extending measures to help curb the spread of the virus.

"A lower proportion of positive cases were transferred into the test and trace system this week, meaning that 12,500 positive cases have not yet been sighted. There were also fewer close contacts identified this week, so while it is encouraging to see a greater proportion of these reached, questions remain around how effective this part of the system really is.

"The amount of time taken for Pillar 2 test results to be turned around also deteriorated this week, and only 28% were returned within 24 hours for all routes.

"Positive developments in the vaccine roll-out offer hope for the future, but we continue to call for improvements in the test and trace system, which remains a vital part of the effort to control the virus."