Leeds virologist warns local restrictions aren't working
Dr Stephen Griffin says a national lockdown of at least three weeks could be needed
Last updated 21st Oct 2020
A leading virologist has warned the new tiered local restrictions aren't working and a national 'circuit breaker' lockdown could be the only way to halt the spread of coronavirus.
It comes after government talks with West Yorkshire leaders have resulted in a decision which keeps the region under Tier 2 'High Risk' restrictions.
Dr Stephen Griffin from The University of Leeds said: "I have a major problem with the different local approaches, because fundamentally they are not underpinned by testing and tracing.
"These localised measures are an excellent idea if you're able to understand where the infection is spreading in almost real time.
"Because test and trace isn't running at the capacity it should be, we're not able to do that."
Dr Griffin argues a three week national lockdown would at least halt the spread of the virus and allow the NHS to handle the recent influx of cases.
However, he says ultimately, until there is a vaccine, test and trace will be the only way to keep the virus under control long-term.
Leaders across West Yorkshire have also questioned the effectiveness of these local restrictions, last week requesting more evidence to show the spread of the virus in hospitality settings.
Responding to the decision to maintain West Yorkshire’s Tier Two (High Risk) status, the Leaders of West Yorkshire Councils issued the following statement:
“Government Ministers did not meet Leaders today. Local and national public health experts agree that there is not a case to move West Yorkshire to Tier Three this week. The decision to maintain Tier Two (High Risk) restrictions reflects the progress that has been made by councils, Public Health England, the NHS and other partners working together to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect lives.
“To further reduce the risk of increased restrictions becoming necessary, it remains essential that everyone in West Yorkshire plays their part by following the rules, particularly when it comes to instructions to self-isolate. And we need the Government’s support now for measures including local test and trace, deep engagement with our communities and financial help for those self-isolating.
“Tier Two status will continue to have an impact on our economy, particularly the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors and their associated supply chains which together employ more than 200,000 people. We urge the Government to respond to our proposals to protect businesses, jobs and incomes, and to support our plan for economic recovery including a package for people who have already lost their jobs to develop new skills.”