With all four countries tackling the crisis in their own way there needs to be clarity and uniformity
The prime ministers and three first ministers are together in hoping they have got it right and that the range of restrictions they have imposed, and their timing, will allow us to enjoy at least a few days of celebration.
It comes down to statistics - infection rates and the R number - and at present it is in the balance.
While large areas throughout the UK have high levels, other parts are enjoying comparative freedom.
The number of cases appears to be levelling out which offers hope but it will be two or three weeks before a decision can be made.
While everyone is living in hope, there is desperation in many businesses. The few weeks before Christmas are the 'golden days' for shops and also critical for pubs and restaurants.
So what do the leaders say?
With 31 deaths in a day and a spate of deaths in a north Wales nursing home, Mark Drakeford, Welsh first minister, warns that relaxing could lead to a surge in the rate.
People should not 'fritter away' any success from lockdown.
The prime minister admits that Christmas will be different this year but hopes that the action he has taken will allow families in England to get together, but there was no guarantee.
The idea of a Christmas pause in the fight worries some advisers, who suggest that a five-day break might have to be paid for with five weeks' tough restrictions.
All the leaders say they will announce plans next week but warn that there could still be uncertainty.
Whatever happens, it won't be the usual merry Christmas but at least with the vaccine news we might enjoy a happy new year.
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