The Government has launched an official inquiry after details of a meeting between top Cabinet members about a 'looming' national lockdown were leaked to the press. The Times and Sky News reported on Friday night (October 30) that at least some level of further nationwide restrictions will be announced next week. Scientists from the Sage committee are thought to have presented figures to Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday that showed Covid-19 is spreading ‘significantly’ faster than in even their ‘worst-case’ projections. Mr Johnson is understood to have been persuaded that a national lockdown - which he has previously described as a “nuclear option” - is the only way to stem infections and save Christmas, although senior sources insisted no decision has been made. Insiders are said to be “furious” that the plans were disclosed before an announcement on Monday, and according to Sky News the Government is “now having to change plans”.