The UK travel ban could be lifted in time for Christmas as part of a four nations agreement, according to reports. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove were attempting to work out an approach for the festive season last night, the Daily Record reports. 

Earlier this week Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the Scottish Government is in discussion with the rest of the UK to create a four-nations consensus.

READ MORE: Coronavirus Christmas Scotland: Nicola Sturgeon confirms UK-wide plan for festive period

She said during her daily coronavirus briefing: "We are all desperate for some normality around Christmas and I absolutely include myself in that.

“The Scottish Government right now is working very closely and well with the other UK nations to try to agree a way for that to happen – we want to have the same position across the UK given family patterns that exist."

It is understood the UK Government is gearing up to allow households of between eight and 12 to meet up for Christmas. 

The announcement will be made after a Cobra meeting during the week.

The four nations deal would reportedly include lifting the Scottish ban on travelling to other parts of the UK. 

Whether children will count towards the limitations on people in the group is still up for discussion. 

It is hoped a joint announcement will be made after the Cobra meeting.

But top scientists are still advising against a near-normal Christmas. 

Professor Andrew Hayward, a SAGE adviser, said: “We’re putting far too much emphasis on having a near-normal Christmas.

Respiratory infections peak in January so throwing fuel on the fire over Christmas can only contribute to this.”

Epidemiologist Professor Gabriel Scally said: “It’s no use having a good Christmas if you’re burying friends and relations in the New Year.”