Salisbury MP admits new Covid-19 rules are 'not where we wanted to be'

The Salisbury MP has written a blog about the latest restrictions as a result of Covid-19.

In it, he's said that the Government's 'determined to do everything possible to avoid' another full lockdown.

Here's his thoughts on the newest announcements from the Prime Minister:

"I know a lot of people are disappointed and concerned by the imposition of additional restrictions to control the spread of coronavirus.

"But many more are relieved that rumours of a return to full lockdown conditions have proved to be ill-founded.

"In response to rising case numbers, we are extending the requirement to wear masks in some settings, enforcing early closing at hospitality venues, asking people to work from home where possible and curtailing some of the exemptions enjoyed by indoor sports.

"This is not where we wanted to be but, as the PM said, a stitch in time saves nine.

"We have already seen cases rise in several European countries - first in the young and then in other age groups. Rising hospital admissions and deaths followed, and restrictions had to be re-imposed. Therefore, we must recognise where the trajectory we are on may lead and act now to stop it.

"In other words, these relatively small impositions made early will prevent a return to lockdown and allow businesses to stay open, children to go to school and people to carry on getting out and about."

John Glen has also been talking about the need for all of us to do what we can to stick to the rules to save lives, and protect the NHS:

"On Monday (21st September), I was pleased to hear the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser specifically mention the delicate balance that must be struck between keeping our economy going and keeping the virus under control.

"The government is extremely mindful that lockdown has negative health implications too and is determined to do everything possible to avoid it.

"As we enter the winter months, when respiratory illnesses tend to surge, by keeping our distance now, we are not just protecting the NHS, as we did so successfully in the spring, but also sheltering our economy from stricter and more costly measures further down the line."

WORKING ON FUTURE ECONOMIC SUPPORT

In his role as Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Salisbury's MP also says he's 'expecting to be busy' working on possible support measures for the sectors most directly affected by the new restrictions.

There have been calls for the furlough scheme, which is due to end next month, to be extended to help industries like leisure and hospitality, who are facing curfews and difficulties with changing the way they work.

The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, is due to make a statement in the House of Commons later today (Thursday 24th September) to reveal more details.

John Glen has confirmed he'll continue to work from home in Salisbury for the time being, like he did through lockdown.