Millions of people across the country are to be placed under tougher restrictions today.
In Wales, supermarkets will not be allowed to sell items such as clothing and hardware during the Covid-19 firebreak lockdown, First Minister Mark Drakeford has said.
Mr Drakeford said it will be “made clear” to supermarkets they are only able to sell products that are classed as “essential goods”.
He said this would ensure a “level playing field” as many retailers will be forced to shut when the 17-day lockdown begins on Friday.
Greater Manchester moved into the highest alert level, Tier 3, on Friday morning, and Wales will introduce its two-week “firebreak” lockdown at 6pm.
Coventry, Stoke and Slough will enter Tier 2 on Saturday, while talks between Westminster and civic leaders in Nottingham over possible Tier 3 restrictions are continuing on Friday.
Under Tier 3 measures in Greater Manchester, pubs and bars will be closed, unless they are serving substantial meals, for a 28-day period, along with casinos, bingo halls and bookies.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced an emergency multi-billion pound bailout on Thursday aimed at supporting workers and firms through the second coronavirus wave.
The Job Support Scheme, which replaces the current furlough system from November 1, will be made more generous in an effort to persuade firms to keep staff in work.
