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As we return from the weekend after the governments decision to 'scrap' weekely daily briefings, today's government coronavirus conference was led by Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who was joined by David Pearson, the newly-appointed chair of the national Covid-19 social care support taskforce. It comes on a day where travel restrictions come in full effect, including the 14 day self-isolation for all those returning from overseas.


Key points to take away from today's speech are:​

• There have been 55 deaths of people with COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, with Mr Hancock noting: "That recorded figure is the lowest since 21 March."
  
  

• Hancock points out that death figures are generally lower following weekends, and so the number of daily deaths is expected to rise again later this week.
  
  

• Mr Hancock repeats that, according to SAGE, the R rate is below one in all regions.
  
  

  

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• Hancock announces new social care taskforce.
  
  

• All remaining adult care homes in England will be able to order testing, not just those caring for the over-65s, Mr Hancock announces.
  
  

• Taking questions from members of the public, Mr Hancock is asked when weddings will be allowed in England. The health secretary says he isn't able to give a definitive answer, highlighting how gatherings of more than six people are still against the rules.
  
  

• Mr Hancock says, thus far, when all studies are taken into account that the R rate is below one in all parts of the country. But this is kept under "constant review", the health secretary says and adds there will be action where "flare-ups" occur.
  
  

•  Health secretary says COVID-19 deaths in care homes has fallen by 79%
  
  

• Why is that death rate higher within BAME communities? Consideration of co-morbidities, housing, occupations will take place. "When we find conclusions to that we will absolutely put them in place," Mr Hancock vows.
  
  

To read a brief summary of last night's points and important measures click here.

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