MPs warn coronavirus fight 'isn't over' as restrictions ease
People have been warned the coronavirus fight “isn’t over” despite social distancing restrictions looking set to be relaxed.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson was today expected to relax the guidelines from two metres to one to curb the virus spread.
The move means pubs and restaurants will be allowed to step-up reopening plans in a vital boost for the hospitality sector.
But MPs across the Black Country have urged people to remain vigilant – to prevent the region going back to the “dark days of March”.
Eddie Hughes, MP for Walsall North, said he will be constantly urging people to follow the guidelines if restrictions are eased.
He said: “I think if the science is telling us it’s possible to relax the social distancing guidelines, I would welcome it because it would free up lots of things.
"As a consequence some bars and restaurants will be able to reopen which I think people deserve especially as the warmer weather is coming out.
"I will be constantly pushing the ‘stay alert’ approach because the virus hasn’t gone away – people should still use sanitiser, wash their hands and take precautions.”
Pragmatic
Shaun Bailey, MP for West Bromwich West, said: “I think throughout the virus, our approach has been guided by the science and it’s been really analytical.
“Boris Johnson said we’ve got to restart the engines of the economy. I’ve spoken to businesses and people have been genuinely appreciate of the help and support from the Government.
"But now we need to make sure we’ve got pragmatic measures in place – we can’t be mired in a fixed position.
"If we can change things we will do that and be as pragmatic as we can.”
Stuart Anderson, who represents Wolverhampton South West, said: “I want to make sure that the hospitality sector can move forward and our economy can keep going.
“But it has to be safe and if it’s safe to relax the restrictions then I’m 100 per cent behind it. We need to have the next evolution – the next stage – of releasing the lockdown.”
Michael Fabricant, MP for Lichfield, said: “Clearly, we need to get the economy moving again. But any such changes can only be made when it’s safe to do so.
“Going back to the dark days of March is not an option.”
