THE Government says it "won't rule out" tougher restrictions as UK records highest number of Covid patients in hospital since the start of the pandemic.

Today, the latest figures confirmed that 32,294 people were currently being treated in hospital having contracted coronavirus.

And as speculation grew throughout the day that more restrictions were on the horizon, Matt Hancock addressed those rumours during tonight's coronavirus briefing.

"As the chief medical officer said today, we are at the worst point in this pandemic, and you can see that from the increase in the number of people in hospital," he said.

"So the NHS, more than ever before, needs everybody to be doing something right now, and that something is to follow the rules.

"Now, I know there has been speculation about more restrictions, and we don't rule out taking further action if needed, but it is your actions now that can make a difference.

"Stay at home, and please reduce all social contact that is not absolutely, strictly necessary.

"That is what's needed - Act like you have the virus."