On Saturday, the Prime Minister announced further restrictions. The regional focus was undoubtedly the right thing to do - for jobs, livelihoods and mental health. Millions across the country, including us here in London, have been working hard to comply with the restrictions put in place. The R rate is now lower than it would otherwise have been.
However, while no one in Government wants to bring in further measures, they are unfortunately necessary. The virus is spreading at a rapid rate, and we must act now to prevent peaks in mortality that are higher than we saw back in April. These further measures are necessary to protect the NHS and ensure that it is not overrun. The last thing anyone wants is our healthcare professionals having to make the tough choices over who they can save. Without action there is a risk that for the first time in our lives that the NHS may not be there for us when we need it most. That is why the action announced by the Prime Minister is necessary.
From Thursday, you must not leave home, except for specific purposes. These include for work where your workplace remains open and where you cannot work from home, to exercise outdoors, for medical reasons and to shop for necessities such as food and medicine. You can also visit members of your support bubble or provide care for vulnerable people.
Non-essential shops, hospitality and leisure venues must close. Workplaces can remain open if you can’t work from home. Education establishments, such as schools and universities, will remain open.
The Prime Minister will be making a further statement to the House of Commons today. I will post any further information both here and on my Facebook page.
It is important that we all come together once again to tackle this virus. The advice is clear, we must stay home to protect the NHS and save lives.
You can see the guidance here.
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