Christmas party fallout: Johnson responds

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to clarify whether a Christmas party took place at this official residence a year ago in breach of Covid lockdown rules. We talk about the fallout he faces with our political correspondent and hear reaction from the British public.

The World Health Organisation says the Omicron strain of the coronavirus has now spread to 57 countries since it was first detected two weeks ago. South African doctors who treat Covid patients discuss what they have learnt so far about Omicron.

And Germany’s new chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has been sworn into parliament, ending Angela Merkel’s 16-year rule. We ask young Germans – who have only ever known Merkel as chancellor – what they expect from the new government.

(Picture: Britain"s Prime Minister Boris Johnson waves outside Downing Street in London, Britain, December 8, 2021. Credit: Reuters/Tom Nicholson)