Boris Johnson shelves plan to force Manchester into harshest tier 3 lockdown

Boris Johnson has stepped back from forcing Greater Manchester into the harshest tier 3 coronavirus restrictions, after protests from local leaders.

MPs were told that “no decision” has been taken for now – after the government was unable to reach agreement on a financial help package.

The impasse is a huge setback for the prime minister, adding to the impression that local leaders have effectively been given a veto over lockdown decisions.

A dramatic meeting began with a health minister insisting Greater Manchester would move into tier 3, but negotiations broke down when she admitted no more money was on offer.