Government did not consult with council over Tier 1 move

You are viewing content from Sunshine Radio Herefordshire and Monmouthshire. Would you like to make this your preferred location?

Thursday, 17 December 2020 16:21

By Carmelo Garcia - Local Democracy Reporter

Herefordshire Council leader David Hitchiner says it was “quite poor” that the Government did not consult with them before deciding to loosen coronavirus restriction in the county.

The county will be placed into tier one from Saturday which means six people from different households will be able to mix indoors again.

But councillor Hitchiner said they had not been consulted about the change.

Credenhill councillor Bob Matthews asked during today’s cabinet meeting if it was normal for the Government not to consult with local authorities about tier changes.

“We don’t live in normal times but I’m disappointed that they have made such a significant decision without consulting,” councillor Hitchiner replied.

“It was quite poor.”

However, he thanked local residents for their efforts in abiding by the restrictions.

But warned against complacency as coronavirus cases could increase rapidly if people let their guard down.

“We still have a long way to go in the fight against this virus,” he said.

“Social distancing, wearing a face covering in public areas and regular handwashing are as important now as they were during the peak of the pandemic.

“We must do all we can to avoid a surge of cases in January and February when we know our NHS will be under added pressure.

“Please celebrate safely this Christmas and do what we possibly can to remain in tier one so that we aren’t bounced around.

“What businesses and people don’t want is uncertainty.”