Omicron infections increasing 'quite dramatically' - a podcast by BBC Radio 4

Infections caused by the new variant Omicron are rising rapidly, doubling every two to three days. It is expected to become the dominant variant soon and then the UK is being warned to be braced for a surge in cases.

Boris Johnson has won backing for Covid passes in England, despite the biggest revolt by Tory MPs since he became PM. A total of 99 Conservatives voted against the government on Tuesday, but the measure was passed by a majority of 243 thanks to Labour support. NHS Covid passes, showing a recent negative test or full vaccination, must be shown to get into many large venues, including nightclubs, from Wednesday. MPs also voted to back compulsory face masks in most indoor settings.

Today's Mishal Husain speaks to Grant Shapps, Transport Secretary, as well as Graham Medley, Professor of infectious disease modelling at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Additionally, Today's Nick Robinson speaks to Mark Harper, one of the Conservative MPs who rebelled in the vote on Tuesday night.

(Image credit: EPA/ANDY RAIN)

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