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“Plan B” coronavirus restrictions must be enforced immediately to prevent the UK “stumbling to a winter crisis”, an NHS leader has warned.
NHS Confederation chief executive Matthew Taylor has urged the government to bring back certain measures, including mandatory face coverings in public places.
His remarks came as the UK recorded 223 COVID-related deaths on Tuesday – the highest number of daily fatalities since 9 March.
A further 43,738 coronavirus cases were also reported in the latest 24-hour period, and on Monday, the UK saw the highest number of new infections since mid-July.
Although Downing Street has said it is keeping a “very close eye” on rising case rates, a spokesperson warned the prime minister has “absolutely no plan to introduce Plan B”.
If this strategy was enforced, people could be asked to work from home again and vaccine certificates would be required for nightclubs, while large indoor and outdoor venues could be forced to close.
Last month, Health Secretary Sajid Javid also confirmed that lockdowns would be considered as a “last resort” if this plan did not work.
Mr Taylor said the NHS is now preparing for what could be “the most challenging winter on record”, and encouraged Britons to support the health service by “behaving in ways that will keep themselves and others safe”.
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Scientist’s winter COVID warning
Warning that the nation’s recovery from the pandemic could be put at risk if pre-emptive action is not taken, he added: “The government should not wait for COVID infections to rocket and for NHS pressures to be sky high before the…
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Source : skynews
