THE Government is reportedly exploring the possibility of spectators being allowed into venues by Christmas in areas with the lowest coronavirus infection rates.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is said to have privately told MPs that reopening sports grounds was "a personal priority", though he did not give any specifics when the matter was raised during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday.

It is as yet unclear how discussions might impact upon York City and the National League.

The second wave of infections has led to another national lockdown, but reports from Tuesday suggested that if there is a return to a tiered approach to restrictions from early December, venues in the lowest-risk areas could open up.

"I understand the frustration over fans and we hope to get crowds back in the ground as soon as possible," Johnson said.

Asked about the financial struggles of EFL clubs starved by matchday revenue may face, Johnson said: "We don't want any football team to go out of business as a result of this pandemic and we're doing everything we can."

Oliver Dowden, minister for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, held a virtual meeting on Tuesday with footballing representatives. The National League were among the invitees.

He tweeted afterwards: "Constructive conversation with football leaders on governance and money, diversity and getting fans back.

"I want to work together with football to make progress on important issues for the game's long-term future.

"Discussions to continue as we start our fan-led review of governance."

The sports minister Nigel Huddleston is expected to provide an update on financial support for sport today.

Meanwhile, nine National League clubs have called for the resignation of the governing body's chairman Brian Barwick amid complaints over the proposed distribution of funding.

Coverage of the funding matter by the Non League Paper has prompted National League directors to write to editor in chief David Emery to object to a "one-sided" approach and insist that the distribution is "under constant review".