Could West Yorkshire be next to face the toughest coronavirus lockdown rules?
People in West Yorkshire are bracing themselves to be moved up to the toughest level of coronavirus restrictions this week.
Last updated 20th Oct 2020
West Yorkshire could be one of the next parts of the country to face the top level of coronavirus restrictions.
Currently, the region is under Tier Two of the lockdown system for England, or the "high" alert level.
As infection rates in West Yorkshire continue to rise, there are fears moving into Tier Three could happen this week.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons yesterday:
"Following the successful introduction of measures in Liverpool and Lancashire, talks are continuing with Greater Manchester, and this week further discussions are planned with South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, the North East and Teesside.''
Although Leeds has seen a drop in case numbers, the Covid-19 rate continues to rise in other parts of West Yorkshire, including in Bradford, Kirklees and Wakefield.
Lancashire and the Liverpool City Region are the only two areas of England under Tier Three restrictions, affecting 3.1 million people.
What would Tier Three restrictions mean for West Yorkshire?
- People could not socialise with anyone outside their household in any indoor and many outdoor settings.
- Pubs and bars would be forced to close unless they can operate as a restaurant.
The Government has given local leaders in Greater Manchester until midday on Tuesday to agree new coronavirus controls.
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said the deteriorating public health situation in the region meant action to curb the spread of the disease was needed.
Mayor Andy Burnham has said that they still want an agreement on a financial support package before agreeing to go into the highest, Tier 3 restrictions.
But in a statement, Mr Jenrick said:
"There are now more Covid-19 patients in Greater Manchester hospitals than in the whole of the South West and South East combined.
"But, unfortunately, despite recognising the gravity of the situation, local leaders have been so far unwilling to take the action that is required to get this situation under control.
"I have written to local leaders this evening to make clear that if we cannot reach agreement by midday tomorrow then I must advise the Prime Minister that despite our best endeavours we've been unable to reach agreement.''