THE Government has failed to reach an agreement with leaders in Greater Manchester over the introduction of Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said.

Mr Jenrick tweeted: "I’m disappointed that despite recognising the gravity of the situation, the Mayor of Greater Manchester has been unwilling to take the action that is required to get the spread of the virus under control in Greater Manchester and reach an agreement with the government.

"I have therefore advised the Prime Minister that these discussions have concluded without an agreement."

The Prime Minister is now expected to set out the Government's next steps at a Downing Street press conference later on Tuesday after talks broke down.

Greater Manchester council leaders had reportedly asked for around £75 million in additional support if Tier 3 restrictions are imposed.

The controls would mean a ban on households mixing, including in private gardens or outdoor hospitality settings, while pubs and bars will be forced to close unless they serve meals.

Ministers had offered £22 million to the region, equivalent to £8 per capita, with "additional support commensurate" with that offered in Lancashire and the Liverpool City Region.

But civic leaders are said to want the Government to go further to support the city's economy and 2.8 million people.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick issued a statement on Monday night warning that the Government had no choice but to act because of the deteriorating situation in the region.

He said he had "written to local leaders this evening to make clear that if we cannot reach agreement by midday (on Tuesday) then I must advise the Prime Minister that, despite our best endeavours, we've been unable to reach agreement".

Mr Burnham said earlier on Tuesday that he would "try to be positive and respond, and see if we can find a way forward" despite the "slightly provocative move" by the Government.