MPs react to new measures
Wearside MPs say while new COVID-19 measures for the North East are a “blow for our region” they are vital to help save lives.
A letter sent by Sunderland Central MP Julie Elliott, and signed by the region’s 15 Labour MPs, unites them in a call for further detail from Health Secretary Matt Hancock after the announcement earlier yesterday.
The restrictions, which start tomorrow, are:
Residents must not socialise with others outside their household or support bubble in private homes and gardens.
Hospitality for food and drink will be restricted to table service only.
Late-night restriction on opening hours, with leisure and entertainment venues to close from 10pm to 5am.
Not to socialise with others outside their own household in public venues.
Onlytousepublictransport for essential journeys, such as school or work.
Take holidays only within a household or support bubble.
Avoid attending amateur and semi-professional sporting events as spectators.
The statement asks for clarification on issues covering Sunderland, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland and County Durham.
T h ey s ay th ey sup p o rt measures to save lives, but ask if household-level information and contact tracing data will be available to councils.
Houghton and Sunderland South MP and shadow chief secretary to the treasury Bridget Phillipson said: “These restrictions are a real blow for our region.
"While they are needed to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 andsavelives,Iknow residentswillbekeentoensure they are eased as soon as it is safe to do so.
“We all have a part to play at this critical time, and I would urge everyone in our community to follow the public health guidance.
“But we also need a firm commitment from Government to work closely with local authorities, and urgently improve testing capacity across our region.
“Workers and businesses will also be worried about the impact these restrictions will have.”
Sharon Hodgson, the MP for Washington and Sunderland West, added: "I know that this is a difficult situation for many people, but I know that if we work together we can all help to bring down the infection rates.”