“Councils continue to do all they can to keep their communities safe, while encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. These extra measures are a reminder that COVID-19 remains a serious public health threat, especially with the new Omicron variant and rising case numbers.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s announcement today of new COVID-19 restrictions, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said:
“Councils continue to do all they can to keep their communities safe, while encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. These extra measures are a reminder that COVID-19 remains a serious public health threat, especially with the new Omicron variant and rising case numbers.
“It is vital we all continue to do everything possible to protect ourselves and each other as we head into the Christmas period. This includes adhering to these new measures and getting vaccinated, as well as a booster jab when eligible, and taking any other steps to reduce transmission, such as frequent handwashing and wearing face masks where instructed
“This will help to minimise the spread, keep us on course for as close-to-normal Christmas as possible and prevent the NHS from coming under unsustainable pressure.
“Directors of Public Health, working in councils, will also need the support and resources they need to respond to any local outbreaks and ramp up local contract tracing efforts, alongside clear and consistent government messaging about what these new rules are.”