Allan: Steve there are reports this evening that Boris may be axing free lateral flow tests within weeks. Restricting it to care home settings etc and symptomatic people. The idea has been criticised by both the Scottish First Minister and the Labour opposition at Westminster.

I'm not surprised that the government are denying it. Only surprised that they bother to react to 'rumour'. The fact that The Times have followed up on the rumour does not elevate its status.

Even as worded above free lateral flow tests within weeks. Restricting it to care home settings etc and symptomatic people suggests it is a rumour started by someone who hasn't understood the science. Restricting it to (care home settings and) people who are symptomatic would be a little silly as the NHS tells us:
There are different tests you can get to check if you have coronavirus (COVID-19). The test you need depends on why you're getting tested.

The 2 main tests are:

PCR tests – mainly for people with symptoms, they're sent to a lab to be checked
rapid lateral flow tests – only for people who do not have symptoms, they give a quick result using a device similar to a pregnancy test

From the NHS website Here