Fast-spreading coronavirus strain wreaking havoc in UK detected in returned travellers to WA

A faster-spreading strain of coronavirus detected in the United Kingdom has hit West Australian shores.

WA Premier Mark McGowan confirmed three returned overseas travellers had tested positive to the new variant, which has ravaged Britain and forced the country into a third strict national lockdown until February.

Mr McGowan played down concerns the new strain could break containment lines and said the state’s hotel quarantine system had proven effective at stopping the spread of the virus so far and would continue to do so.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnston said UK scientists had confirmed the new variant was between 50 and 70 per cent more transmissible.

More to come.