IN his latest news conference, health secretary Matt Hancock has outlined his plan for 100,000 coronavirus tests per day in the UK by the end of April.

A total of 2,921 people have now died after contracting Covid-19 - including several NHS workers.

Hancock says that testing for the virus will still be prioritised for hospital patients which will then expand to NHS staff.

Mr Hancock says: "We are steadfast in our resolve to defeat this invisible killer.

"I'm profoundly moved by the passion and commitment across the country.

"Doctors and nurses have paid the ultimate price caring for others.

"I am awed by the dedication of every single person who contributes the running of this institution our nation holds dear."

Through the military, the government has now shipped 45 million pieces of PPE.

The newly upgraded standards for protective equipment for health workers are 'among highest in the world'.

Under pressure to deliver widespread testing for Covid-19, Hancock told the nation how one test, which the government is being urged to buy, missed three out of four positive cases.

He also announced that the government is writing off £13.4 billion of NHS debt to help with the pressures they are currently under.

Hancock said this would allow NHS Trusts to focus on the fight against Covid-19 rather than balancing the books.

£300million has also been made available for pharmacies.