new variant of coronavirus could be up to 70% more transmissable than earlier version."I have been briefed on data which shows virus spreading more rapidly in parts of England, driven by new variant," he said.With the average number of cases in England soaring because of a new, more contagious strain of the virus, Johnson said the government had to take urgent action."I know how much emotion people invest in this time of year...I know how disappointing this will be," Johnson told a news conference. "There is no alternative open to me."Johnson said government’s scientific advisors said the new variant appears to spread more easily.People in Tier 4 cannot mix with anyone outside their household and must stay at home and cannot stay away from.