‘Freedom first’ PM should be praised

GREAT leaders do not follow the herd but assess evidence with clarity and take the action required to defend their country from danger.

Boris Johnson’s counterparts across

Europe and the other nations of the UK have responded to escalating Omicron case numbers by curtailing the freedom of citizens to go about their normal lives.

Society commends as sensible people who err on the side of caution and steer clear of risk. But Mr Johnson took the gamble of not introducing new restrictions over Christmas and New Year.

The PM, who was at the centre of multiple storms in the final weeks of

2021, has won plaudits for keeping freedoms in place, and his admirers are increasingly confident this was the right decision for the health of both the population and the economy.

He knows that one of the historic duties of a British prime minister is to defend liberty.

He has put his faith in the common sense of the public while using his legendary campaigning skills to encourage people to get a booster jab.

It took courage to stick to this strategy in the run-up to Christmas, and it may require bravery to make the case for change if the pandemic threatens to overwhelm essential services.

Chris Hopson, the chief executive of NHS Providers, has warned the “next few days are crucial” and the Government “must be ready to introduce new restrictions at pace if they’re needed”.

There is the clear potential for a fierce debate about the best way to protect lives and livelihoods.

We are increasingly aware of the damage to mental health caused by isolation and many thousands of people missed out on treatments during lockdown.

Our economy is now saddled with a gargantuan debt and employers shudder at the thought of what new restrictions mean for the survival of their businesses.

Equally, it is essential children stay in school and the NHS does not collapse.

This is Mr Johnson’s chance to show he is not bound by ideology or cowed by threats but ready to confront vexing dilemmas and take the decisions the common good demands.