Times

The Times reports that ministers are considering telling pubs and restaurants in virus hotspots around the country to close early, by 22:00 BST. It quotes Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick – who was speaking on ITV on Wednesday night – saying a full announcement on further curbs in the north-east of England would be announced on Thursday. The paper’s main picture is of Prince Philip, who is leaving Balmoral to spend two weeks with the Queen at Sandringham.

The Times reports that coronavirus infection rates amid middle-aged people are now at the same level as people in their 20s. But its top story is on plans by the NHS to record all alcoholic drinks consumed by pregnant women. Charities including the British Pregnancy Advisory Service say it could infringe data privacy rights. But the official NHS advisory body believes it could help identify babies at risk of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

The shortage of virus tests is likely to continue for weeks, the Times reports. The paper says officials believe labs will not be able to keep up with demand until a new lab in the Midlands opens – which is not expected to be for at least a fortnight. It adds that government ministers are drawing up plans to restrict “frivolous demands” for tests.

The Times reports that Boris Johnson has been accused by his former attorney general of doing “unconscionable” damage to Britain’s international reputation over the PM’s plans to override parts of the Brexit treaty with the European Union. Geoffrey Cox has said he will not back the government’s Internal Market Bill, which will be debated in parliament for the first time this week. Meanwhile, a scientific adviser to the government has warned that Britain may only be a few days from losing control of coronavirus infections.

Boris Johnson is drawing up plans to fine people who breach self-isolation rules, The Times reports.

Britain faces a Christmas without large family gatherings, according to The Times, which also leads on the prime minister’s Downing Street press conference. 

Ministers admit the coronavirus death toll is likely to rise, as the government announces that meetings of more than six people will be banned from Monday – that’s on the front of The Times.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has urged young people not to “kill your gran” by spreading coronavirus after an increase in cases led to calls for mass testing of students, The Times reports.

Boris Johnson is to insist that the UK will “prosper mightily” if it leaves the EU without a deal, according to The Times.