A spokesman for Number 10 said: “The spread of the new variant of COVID-19 has led to rapidly escalating case numbers across the country.
“The Prime Minister is clear that further steps must now be taken to arrest this rise and to protect the NHS and save lives.
“He will set those out this evening.”
Mr Johnson is under mounting pressure to bring in more stringent coronavirus measures as cases soar.
Earlier today, he confirmed that tougher restrictions will be announced soon. Speaking during a visit to Chase Farm Hospital in north London, he warned there were “tough, tough” weeks to come.
He added: “If you look at the numbers there’s no question we will have to take tougher measures and we will be announcing those in due course.”
Parliament will be recalled to sit on Wednesday.
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has agreed to the Government’s request for the House to meet on Wednesday but urged MPs not to physically attend Parliament unless absolutely necessary.
In a message to MPs, Sir Lindsay said: “I am satisfied that the public interest does require such a recall and I have agreed that the House shall meet on Wednesday 6 January 2021 at 11.30am.
“As per my advice on the previous recall, I would strongly urge you NOT to physically come to Westminster to participate in any business unless absolutely necessary due to the current severe public health situation. Members’ staff should also be working from home and I have asked the House authorities to limit House staff on the estate to a bare minimum.”
