Coronavirus live news: 'Highly likely' BioNTech vaccine works against new variant; Taiwan confirms first local case since April

BioNTech’s CEO says tests being run on mutant strain; US could require negative Covid-19 tests for passengers from Britain

11.27am GMT

China has suspended its visa application service in London, the Chinese embassy in the UK has announced.

In a statement on its website it said:

In accordance with the relevant pandemic prevention advice, the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in London will suspend its operation from December 22nd, 2020 till further notice.

11.16am GMT

The UK’s transport secretary, Grant Shapps, has reminded lorry drivers that a French travel ban remains in place in Dover.

A reminder to all hauliers that the French have not re-opened the border to France. Please do not travel to Kent as you will be unable to cross and may become stuck for longer.