QUOTES OFTHEDAY

“Political opponents have chosen to attack the Government for trying to keep the economy functioning and to make sure the support we provide encourages people to keep working. And they will now no doubt criticise the Government on the basis that we have had to change our approach. But to anyone in the real world that’s just the thing you have to do when the circumstances change”

- Chancellor Rishi Sunak defends the Government’s actions in the face of the Covid crisis as he announced the jobs furlough scheme would be extended until the end of March.

“The Chancellor can change his mind at the last minute, but businesses can’t. We need a Chancellor who is in front of the problems we face, not one who is always a step behind”

- Labour’s shadow chancellor Anneliese Dodds, above, responds to Mr Sunak’s announcement.

“I think the evidence we’ve seen over the last couple of days is that this particular aspect of the decision by the Government is not supported by any scientific evidence and clearly shows a misunderstanding of the importance of religious faith...Going to church is not a social gathering, it is a very significant, fundamental part of people’s lives”

- Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the leader of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, says the ban on religious services during lockdown is not supported by scientific evidence.

“Let’s try not to get downhearted, we will get through this, whatever is thrown at us and together we can ensure that tomorrow will be a good day” - Captain Sir Tom Moore says the country will get through the second lockdown together.