Public Health

John Spellar

Points out that only one virus in history has been eradicated and containment may be the only option. Asks for clarity on the regulations.

Steve Brine

Asks about the hope the Prime Minister can give to pubs and restaurants facing tier 1 restrictions turning into tier 2 despite a decline in cases from 178 to 79 per 100,000 people.

Mark Jenkinson

Requests a more local tiering system to reward the hard work of constituents where rates have declined to just over 70 per 100,000.

Tan Dhesi Lab

Slough

Critiques the Prime Minister for placing Slough in tier 3 despite lower transmission rates compared to neighbouring regions, asking why they are being penalised.

Edward Leigh

Requests a personal commitment from the Prime Minister and his Secretary of State to review Lincolnshire's case for moving out of tier 3 by Christmas due to inconsistencies in tiering.

Greg Clark

Asks the Prime Minister to commit that boroughs meeting specific criteria will be moved down to a lower tier at the first possible review on 16 December, given the variation in infection rates within Kent.

Edward Davey Lib Dem

Kingston and Surbiton

Asks the Prime Minister to ensure anyone wanting to take an NHS test before visiting family over Christmas can receive one.

Andrea Leadsom

Raises concern about compliance with previous lockdowns and warns of potential non-compliance, expressing frustration for compliant individuals watching non-compliant ones.

Toby Perkins Lab

Chesterfield

Welcomes the Prime Minister’s explanation but finds current restrictions inadequate. Criticises the tiering system, citing examples of Chesterfield being in tier 3 despite lower infection rates compared to London constituencies.

Keir Starmer

Welcomes the fall in infection numbers and the reduction in hospital admissions, but questions if current measures are sufficient for controlling the virus. Criticises the economic support package as inadequate for businesses affected by restrictions.

Bernard Jenkin Con

Harwich and North Essex

Emphasised the need to keep R rate below 1 while minimizing restrictions on people’s lives. Suggested that it is reasonable for Government to anticipate hospitals becoming overrun during winter months due to rising covid infections, unless measures are taken to keep R around or below 1. Called for more analysis of economic impact but acknowledged impossibility of certainty amidst uncertainty.

Chris Bryant Lab

Rhondda and Ogmore

Interjected, suggesting a different interpretation that the Prime Minister does not give the full story to the House or nation. Predicted another lockdown in January across the UK due to insufficient measures announced today.

Patrick Grady

Stressed importance of cross-party and intra-party consensus seen in Scotland, highlighting Scottish Government's approach as frank and honest about challenges and decisions. Emphasised that public health and saving lives must be prioritised despite economic pain caused by restrictions. Criticised UK Government for not supporting those who need to isolate and mentioned the £500 bonus for NHS staff and a £100 one-off payment before Christmas for households with children in receipt of free school meals.

Hilary Benn Lab

Leeds South

The debate is about balancing risks to life and cost, and it involves scientific uncertainty. The upcoming vaccines are a cause for hope but also concern due to anti-vax conspiracy theories which must be challenged to ensure vaccine uptake. While vaccination should not be compulsory, the more people vaccinated, the better chance of defeating the disease.

David Davis Con

Goole and Pocklington

The Government's measures are overly broad and cause significant economic damage without clear evidence that they effectively suppress the virus. The UK should adopt more targeted interventions like those in Germany, South Korea, and Vietnam which focus on narrow areas with high infection rates.

Graham Stringer Lab

Blackley and Middleton South

Mr. Stringer argues against the proposed regulations, suggesting that centralising public health measures is inefficient and ineffective, leading to financial strain on individuals and businesses, particularly in Greater Manchester. He emphasises the need for decentralisation of these systems to local public health authorities for better management.

Andrea Leadsom

Ms. Leadsom expresses reluctance towards supporting further restrictions unless a clear justification is provided regarding their necessity and long-term impact. She highlights inconsistencies in enforcement, personal anecdotes illustrating perceived unfairness of the rules, concerns over access to essential services like child psychology assessments, and worries about long-term mental health impacts due to isolation.

Tan Dhesi Lab

Slough

Mr. Dhesi argues that the proposed tier system is inconsistent in Slough compared to neighbouring areas with similar infection rates, implying political influence over scientific decision-making. He criticises inadequate support for businesses and highlights issues with the test, track and trace system. Mr. Dhesi calls for increased funding and resources for local public health teams.

Damian Green Con

Ashford

Mr Green opposes the motion with sadness, acknowledging the difficult decisions made by Ministers and the successes of the Health and Social Care Secretary's team. He expresses concern over the arbitrary application of tiers in Kent, suggesting that it fails to gain public consent. He advocates for a more flexible approach based on borough or district rather than county-wide measures. Mr Green also questions the rationale behind the second lockdown in his constituency and urges caution during the five-day exemption period before Christmas.

Cat Smith Lab

Lancaster and Fleetwood

Ms Smith supports necessary public health measures but emphasises the importance of fairness, local support, and economic considerations. She highlights discrepancies in tier allocations across Lancashire compared to London and neighbouring districts. Ms Smith sets out a state of health picture for her constituency, noting hospital wards closures and high bed occupancy rates. She criticises the lack of consideration given to northern economies when making decisions about restrictions, advocating for a district-by-district approach instead of county-wide measures.

Adam Holloway Con

Westmorland and Lonsdale

Pays tribute to NHS staff and the Government's vaccine efforts but criticises the lack of diversity in advice and analysis. Argues that restrictions are not based on sufficient economic impact assessments, citing examples from the hospitality industry. Suggests reopening well-run venues and closing poorly run ones to improve compliance. Supports the Prime Minister and urges for more diversity in advice.

Edward Davey Lib Dem

Kingston and Surbiton

Emphasises the need for clarity, financial support for businesses and individuals impacted by restrictions, and a comprehensive test-trace-isolate system. Criticises the Government's failure to deliver on these points, particularly in relation to isolation payments and their ability to handle the pandemic effectively.

Andrew Murrison Con

South West Wiltshire

Supports the Government's proposed tier restrictions due to the potential game-changing developments with vaccines. Acknowledges the uncertainty in current models but believes the broad approach being taken is justified given similar actions by other countries. Discusses the importance of public health capacity and the need for granular contact tracing.

Emma Lewell Lab

South Shields

Critiques the government's handling of the pandemic, highlighting ongoing issues with test and trace, confusion over regulations, and economic impacts. Emphasises a need for a more sensible approach that balances public health measures with economic considerations.

Desmond Swayne Con

New Forest West

Questions the logic behind current restrictions and expresses concern about potential vaccine mandates infringing on civil liberties. Advocates for voluntary vaccination through positive incentives rather than coercion.

Sammy Wilson DUP

East Antrim

Highlights the disproportionate impact of lockdowns on businesses and individuals, citing a study showing no difference in infection rates between isolated and non-isolated groups. Expresses concern about personal liberties being eroded due to fear-mongering.

Mark Harper Con

Forest of Dean

I take the current situation seriously, but criticise the government for not providing enough information on the effectiveness and economic costs of proposed measures. I have asked for more modelling and forecasting data from SAGE to substantiate claims about NHS capacity and the impact of tiers. I am concerned about the hospitality industry taking a disproportionate hit without sufficient evidence that it poses significant risks, especially given current guidelines. Without proper transparency, I cannot support these regulations at present.

Derek Twigg Lab

Widnes and Halewood

The government's strategy lacks clarity and consistency, leaving many constituents without adequate support during the pandemic. Many sole traders, self-employed individuals, and hospitality workers have suffered greatly while providing little evidence of significant outbreaks in their premises. There are also severe unintended health consequences due to reduced GP referrals for various medical conditions, missed targets on waiting times, and financial strain affecting mental well-being. Local councils need more support to manage the crisis effectively. The government must improve its vaccine delivery strategy to avoid past failures and maintain public confidence.

Chris Grayling Con

Berkshire West

Praised the government's efforts in vaccine preparation and testing, acknowledging that challenges faced by the UK are similar to those of other European countries. However, expressed concerns about the data provided by Public Health England which undermines confidence in government messages due to inaccuracies in past reports and reluctance to balance health risks with economic needs.

Maria Eagle Lab

Liverpool Garston

Emphasised the need for transparency and clear communication from the Government, noting that repeated changes in rules confuse people. Highlighted Liverpool's experience under tier 3 restrictions where infection rates fell significantly due to mass testing and local solidarity. Stressed the importance of supporting self-isolation and improving access to financial assistance like the test and trace payment.

Alec Shelbrooke Con

Wetherby and Easingwold

Expresses frustration over the current lockdown measures, highlighting the impact on families and the NHS. He emphasises the need to support businesses while acknowledging that restrictions are necessary. He criticises the Prime Minister's announcement for wet pubs as insufficient and calls for better financial support for the hospitality industry.

Dan Carden Lab

Liverpool Walton

Discusses the impact of the pandemic on Liverpool, Walton, particularly focusing on youth unemployment, child poverty, and austerity measures. He supports Liverpool moving to a lower tier due to mass testing but criticises the Government's eligibility criteria for financial support, highlighting issues with statutory sick pay and discretionary payments.

Charles Walker

Calls for older people to be involved in discussions about lockdown measures, emphasising that elderly individuals are not interested in being patronised. He argues against the narrative that every death is a tragedy, suggesting that the deaths of very old individuals should be recognised differently from those of younger people.

Maria Miller Con

Basingstoke

Supports the tiered approach rather than continued lockdown, calls for clearer data analysis and better consideration of local infection control actions. She emphasises the need to follow human geography instead of administrative regions.

Grahame Morris Lab

Easington

Opposes what he terms a third lockdown due to insufficient support from the Government, highlighting failures in test and trace, inconsistent strategy leading to U-turns, and lack of financial compensation for businesses.

Simon Clarke

Supports tiered restrictions as they allow clearer criteria for progression out of restrictions. Emphasises the importance of mass testing alongside vaccines to bring an end to lockdown measures, also mentions need for further pub support in Budget.

Bell Ribeiro-Addy Lab

Clapham and Brixton Hill

I oppose these measures not because I oppose restrictions, but because they are wholly inadequate. The Government's record on combating coronavirus is one of abject and deadly failure; we have one of the worst per capita death tolls among advanced industrialised countries and one of the worst economic outcomes. Research from King’s College London shows that 82% of people have followed the latest lockdown restrictions as strictly, or even more strictly, than they followed the first lockdown, but our communities are losing patience with inconsistencies in measures such as allowing children to go to school while prohibiting church gatherings and AA meetings. There is an alternative to these ineffective policies: following countries like New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam, and Melbourne by aiming for a zero-covid strategy through strict lockdowns, effective tracking and tracing, and well-enforced isolation measures.

John Redwood

Many of my constituents are very angry that west Berkshire and Wokingham have been placed in tier 2 despite having low figures before the national lockdown. I would like to see more policies that both bear down on the virus problem and allow economic recovery, such as expanded isolation capacity in the NHS with volunteers backed up by proper equipment and safety protocols, safer methods of extracting air quickly from hospitality venues, a proper package for all self-employed individuals and small businesses who have suffered the most from compulsory closures, and a full recovery programme sector by sector including retraining opportunities.

Alex Sobel Lab Co-op

Leeds Central

The lack of meaningful support from the Government is a massive kick in the teeth for those who work so hard to make their businesses safe and have taken additional measures at their own expense during this latest lockdown, trying to survive what has been an apocalyptic year for hospitality. The one-off £20 per head additional restrictions grant for councils was welcome, but I am not sure how the Government expect local authorities to stretch out the grant for as long as they are in tier 3 when some areas have been under the strictest measures for many months with no end date in sight.

Mark Jenkinson

My constituency of Workington sits entirely within the borough of Allerdale, which entered national restrictions at tier 1 and will leave them in tier 2. If we drill down into the data, however, we see that our rate as we entered those restrictions suggested that we were already in tier 2 territory or may have been in short order. The narrative also fails to set out the impact that the local outbreaks it references and the over-60s rates, in some cases 90 minutes away from my constituents, may have on our shared health infrastructure.

Bill Esterson Lab

Sefton Central

What I want to say today is that the experience of my constituents, who live in one of the six boroughs of the Liverpool city region that are in that position, leaves clues about what has worked and what has been missing. Mass testing is not the whole answer by any means. It is part of the reason we are now in tier 2 instead of tier 3, as is the fact that we went into tier 3 so early, but it has taken 2,000 military personnel to administer mass testing.

Greg Clark Con

Tunbridge Wells

At the beginning of the pandemic, we were in a position where testing was extremely limited, leading to national lockdowns. Now, with daily tests over half a million and detailed data published nationally, localised action is possible but not being applied effectively in Tunbridge Wells despite low infection rates and economic harm from inappropriate restrictions.

Adam Afriyie Con

Windsor

While acknowledging the Government's efforts on PPE, vaccine development, and mass testing, I find it hard to support the current measures without a proper cost-benefit analysis. There are alternatives like targeted approaches or more trust in individuals' decisions that should be considered alongside further research into virus spread, hospital triage, and test-trace refinement.

Jeremy Wright Con

Kenilworth and Southam

For the first time in 10 years, I will vote against my Government due to the imposition of tiered restrictions based on data that is either outdated or irrelevant to specific areas like Warwickshire. This approach damages hospitality businesses and erodes public trust in necessary restrictions.

Paul Howell Con

Sedgefield

The people of Sedgefield respect the difficulties and challenges involved in controlling the virus, understanding the need to protect vulnerable individuals. There is a range of opinions from complete lockdown to infringement on civil liberties. The north-east region has been grouped together despite varying population densities and different risk profiles between rural areas like Sedgefield and cities like Newcastle. Hospitality businesses such as village pubs are struggling under tier 3 restrictions, which have led to significant economic hardship for these communities and their supply chains. A more nuanced approach is needed that considers the unique circumstances of each area.

John Spellar Lab

Erdington

Manchester and the midlands should have had stricter criteria applied similar to London due to economic risks, considering both medical evidence and socio-economic impacts. The Government's document on economic scarring does not provide a comprehensive analysis, but it highlights issues such as deferred investments, business failures, human capital loss, early retirements, and increased sick leave days. The vaccine is welcome but not an immediate solution. Current measures are more about risk avoidance than management; a targeted approach based on robust evidence is necessary.

Lilian Greenwood Lab

Nottingham South

The public health teams need better resources and support for people to self-isolate, especially those using the NHS covid app. Nottingham remains in tier 3 despite falling infection rates, leaving businesses and workers struggling. Ice rinks are closed while other indoor sports facilities are allowed to open, raising questions about fairness and evidence-based restrictions. Bowling alleys have invested in safety measures but face closure, unlike gyms and leisure centres.

Tobias Ellwood Con

Newton Abbot

The MP emphasises the importance of proper scrutiny and transparency in transitioning from lockdown to a tier system, expressing concerns about public consent and effective crisis management. He argues for reconsidering Christmas reopening plans if it risks undermining previous efforts to control the virus.

Toby Perkins Lab

Chesterfield

The MP criticises the Government's approach to tiers, arguing that it is not evidence-based and lacks public confidence. He highlights disparities in treatment between regions like London and elsewhere, advocating for a more strategic testing and tracing programme.

Edward Leigh Con

Gainsborough

The MP expresses deep reservations about the infringement of civil liberties by current restrictions but acknowledges the necessity to control the virus. He supports reviewing tier allocations on December 16th with a commitment from the Prime Minister for more granular adjustments.

Steven Baker Con

Devon, South Hams

Critiques the Government’s pandemic response measures as lacking adequate analysis to justify their proportionality and efficacy. Expresses concern over mental health issues faced by NHS staff, long-Covid patients being squeezed out of hospitals, and businesses losing customers due to closures. Emphasises the need for proper health economic analysis to ensure policies are proportionate.

Angela Eagle Lab

Wallasey

Challenges the Government’s response to the pandemic as being behind the curve with inadequate support and constantly changing rules, leading to uncertainty. Calls out for moral leadership, proper sick pay, truthful communication, and equitable distribution of resources to those in desperate need.

Neil O'Brien Con

Harborough, Oadby and Wigston

Supports the Government’s measures aimed at controlling the virus while expressing concern over premature easing of restrictions. Highlights the necessity of tiered approaches to ensure local proportionality and criticises myths circulating about the nature of coronavirus.

Alex Cunningham Lab

Stockton South

Thanks to the hard work of constituents, cases in Stockton have decreased but are still nearly double the national average. The area remains in tier 3 despite calls for a reduction to tier 2. Emails highlight concerns from families unable to visit care homes and businesses struggling with inadequate financial support. There is a call for better protection and support for businesses, especially those that do not serve food. Emphasises the need for action on gaps in support for self-employed individuals and demands clarity and proper financial assistance.

William Wragg Con

Hazel Grove

Responded to conspiracy theories about covid-19 by dismissing them as unrealistic and a product of armchair epidemiologists. Acknowledged the reopening of non-essential retail but questioned why it would be surprising, suggesting the British state lacks the competence for such conspiracies.

Neil O'Brien Con

Harborough

Intervened to point out that some conspiracy theories have dangerous agendas and cited an example of a person advocating harmful activities in relation to public health. Advised not to listen to individuals presenting such views as credible sources.

Mary Foy Lab

City of Durham

Critiques the lack of support from the Government for businesses and workers placed under tier 3 restrictions, highlighting regional inequality in both the measures and financial aid. Stresses the need for a functioning test and trace system to avoid future lockdowns and urges the Prime Minister to treat the north fairly by providing clear exit plans.

Craig Mackinlay Con

Thanet South

Addresses the challenges of balancing personal liberties with public health measures. Highlights the high level of infection in his constituency and questions the speed at which a vaccine rollout will occur, urging honesty about the timeline for vaccine distribution. Emphasises the importance of regional data on infections as a driver for good behaviour and raises concerns about the impact of restrictions on elderly individuals.

Mike Amesbury Lab

Weaver Vale

Amesbury expressed concerns over the support for pubs and local businesses under tier restrictions, citing specific examples from his constituency like the Bears Paw pub in Frodsham. He pointed out that infections are decreasing in Cheshire West and Chester but emphasised the need for more targeted support and test and trace facilities locally.

Stephen Hammond Con

Wimbledon

Hammond highlighted the challenging decision MPs face, noting it is a choice between lives and livelihoods with personal stories behind each vote. He asked the Government to trust them with data and push for more localised decisions on tier restrictions based on borough-level assessments rather than regional inequalities.

Liz Twist Lab

Blaydon and Consett

Twist discussed the situation in the north-east, which had been under restrictions prior to the national lockdown. She stressed the need for effective local test and trace systems, support for those who may have to isolate but do not qualify for financial assistance, and real support for businesses hit hard by the pandemic.

Lucy Allan Con

Telford

Allan thanked the Prime Minister for his efforts during the crisis and emphasised the importance of free speech in challenging narratives about lockdown measures. She argued that while she would find it difficult to support these measures, anyone in the PM's position has no other option due to the seriousness of the situation.

Edward Timpson

Supports a tiered approach that reflects the most effective restrictions for each particular tier. Acknowledges issues in specific parts of the economy, particularly the hospitality sector and wedding industry. Calls for socially distanced weddings to be permitted. Supports measures but asks for collaboration on finding the best path to prosperity.

Kate Osborne Lab

Jarrow and Gateshead East

Critiques the tiered system's impact on poorer communities, calling it irresponsible. Urges better financial support for self-isolation and a greater package of grants and benefits for businesses and individuals. Supports restrictions in principle but demands better financial aid and social security uplifts.

Tom Randall

Acknowledges the necessity of further measures despite their unpopularity, focusing on the impact on the hospitality sector. Highlights the importance of pubs as community centres and calls for continued support to ensure their survival.

Naseem Shah Lab

Bradford West

Shah criticises the Government for imposing restrictions without adequate funding or support, citing his constituency's long-term tier 3 status and its impact on local businesses. He also points out that Bradford Council has managed to reach 90% test and trace contacts, compared to Serco’s failure to meet the target of 80%. Despite this, he feels unsupported by the Government.

Bob Neill

Neill argues against the regulations on the basis that they are disproportionate and lack sufficient economic analysis. He criticises the tiering system for being arbitrary and not justified by evidence, suggesting it disproportionately affects certain areas like Kent relative to London boroughs.

Kevan Jones

Jones characterizes the Government’s response as incompetent and corrupt, highlighting failures in test and trace systems managed centrally rather than locally. He suggests that local strategies for test and tracing would be more effective and criticises the approach to vaccines and public health measures.

Luke Evans Con

Hinckley and Bosworth

Evans argues for a borough-based model in Leicestershire, as seen successful during the summer. He asks that his constituency be allowed to follow its own merits independently of Leicester's status due to lower infection rates and better adherence to rules.

Chris Bryant Lab

Rhondda and Ogmore

Stresses the need for restrictions due to high death rates seen recently. Criticises the Prime Minister's approach, suggesting it is unrealistic to move from tier 2 to tier 1 before Christmas. Argues for a more localised approach rather than a regional one and highlights difficulties faced by the hospitality industry. Emphasises the importance of treating citizens as responsible adults in decision-making processes.

Steve Brine

Expresses concern over lack of consultation with MPs and local leaders regarding tier adjustments. Calls for a more localized approach to restrictions, questioning why household mixing is still prohibited when there are plans to relax rules around Christmas gatherings despite the potential risks.

Layla Moran Lib Dem

Oxford West and Abingdon

Agrees with previous speakers regarding people's dissatisfaction and fears about business survival under current restrictions. Criticises the tier system for not effectively balancing health and economic considerations, urging for more transparency in decision-making processes.

Laura Farris

Acknowledges that any decision will face criticism but emphasises the importance of considering public health risks despite economic impacts on hospitality. Highlights the rapid increase in infection rates and potential overflow of hospitals if measures are not strict enough, advocating for a gradual easing approach while maintaining moral authority.

Steve McCabe Lab

Birmingham Selly Oak

Expresses irritation at the Prime Minister's juvenile efforts to provoke Labour, criticises the Government for lack of sincerity and humility. Highlights the dissatisfaction among people due to repeated failures by the Government. Describes the impact on local businesses in Birmingham and hospitality sector. Requests clarity on who made economic case for London while ignoring Birmingham’s needs. Criticises the £1,000 support for wet pubs as insufficient. Calls for immediate assistance to keep pubs, clubs, restaurants open and support self-employed people.

Martin Vickers Con

Brigg and Immingham

Argues against those opposing the Government’s measures by highlighting hospital capacity and expert advice from NHS. Mentions local infection rate decrease due to lockdown measures, advocating for strict enforcement. Requests additional support for coastal areas affected by Government restrictions.

Rachael Maskell Lab Co-op

York Central

Calls for strong public health measures and economic support from the Government. Emphasises local contact tracing, urging release of data on day one to stop virus spread. Proposes a more public health approach towards economy ensuring workplaces are covid-secure before opening. Discusses loneliness during Christmas and urges rapid lateral flow tests availability.

Jacob Young Con

Redcar

Disappointed with Redcar and Cleveland being in tier 3 while London was placed in tier 2. Requests justification for different treatment of areas. Mentions the decline in cases which should allow a downgrading of restrictions by 16th December. Urges Government to consider social impact of closing wet pubs and suggests measures like cutting alcohol duty, VAT exemptions. Criticises Labour’s abstention from decision-making process.

Alistair Carmichael Lib Dem

Orkney and Shetland

Expressed frustration with the Government's handling of covid, lack of coherent strategy, and impact on freedom of assembly. Raised concerns about the travel industry being left behind despite efforts to comply with regulations.

Jackie Doyle-Price

Voiced concerns over inconsistency in tiering allocation and arbitrary judgments affecting hospitality sectors. Highlighted potential risks at home versus public spaces, emphasising the need for proportionate measures protecting all aspects of NHS.

Rachel Hopkins Lab

Luton South and South Bedfordshire

Criticised Government's inadequate response to previous lockdowns, lack of improvements in test and trace systems, insufficient economic support, and uneven tiering regulations. Raised alarm over the hospitality industry losses and called for fair treatment of wet-led pubs.

Tim Loughton

Called for logical and proportionate measures based on data, expressed concerns about going into tier 2 despite lower infection rates in his constituency. Questioned rationale behind restrictions like requiring substantial meals to accompany drinks and criticised the lack of clear communication from the Government.

Munira Wilson Lib Dem

Twickenham

The Government's measures to control the virus are necessary but flawed. The localised approach is supported in principle, yet its execution is deeply flawed due to lack of transparency and evidence-based decision-making. Criticises inconsistent rules such as allowing large indoor events while restricting two friends from meeting for a drink. Calls for greater support for affected sectors like hospitality.

Gareth Bacon Con

Orpington

Regional tiers offer the best option for living with the virus until vaccines are fully deployed, avoiding repeated lockdowns which cause long-lasting damage. Acknowledges that evidence for tier decisions can be improved and calls on the Government to reassess support measures for affected sectors like hospitality. Criticises Labour's failure to provide an alternative plan.

Rob Butler

Faced with a difficult decision, votes in favour of the restrictions despite personal reservations and lack of perfect information. Expresses concern over economic impacts on constituents but prioritises public health given hospital capacity constraints and missed operations due to previous lockdowns.

Derek Thomas Con

St Ives

Voted against national lockdown due to his constituency's position in tier 1 but supports the current system for its effectiveness. Raised concerns about travel restrictions and hospitality, emphasising the need for strengthening measures while supporting visitors during a national effort. Highlighted the impact of the pandemic on long-term health conditions like diabetes.

Rosie Winterton Lab

Rotherham

Called on colleagues to speak for less than three minutes to allow more people to contribute, without providing her own detailed position or argument.

Chris Loder Con

West Dorset

Defended the civil liberties of his constituents and questioned the need for tier 3 restrictions in West Dorset due to low case rates. Criticised the lack of localisation in decision-making but supported the Government's approach towards regional arrangement.

Christian Wakeford Lab

Bury South

Supported the concept of tiering and agreed with Bury’s current positioning, criticising the timing of decisions. Pleaded for a truly meaningful review involving stakeholders. Raised concerns about the sunset clause duration and restrictions on hospitality.

Antony Higginbotham Con

Wirral South

Acknowledged the significant impact of coronavirus on businesses, particularly pubs and restaurants in his constituency, while recognising the need for further measures to control case numbers. Emphasised the importance of rapid testing and highlighted the challenge of balancing public health and economic recovery.

Richard Fuller Con

North Bedfordshire

Fuller argues that although the Government have made progress on some fronts, more needs to be done on freedom to associate and rapid testing. He also criticises the impact assessment for its lack of rigour and calls for hospital occupancy data to inform future decisions.

Greg Smith Con

Mid Buckinghamshire

Smith expresses scepticism about tiered restrictions, citing low infection rates in his constituency. He urges greater granularity in the application of tiers and highlights economic impacts on businesses, urging local decision-making to reduce restrictions.

Nickie Aiken

Aiken supports the Government's objective of protecting lives and the NHS, welcoming improvements in testing but stressing the need for caution. She asks for further consideration regarding allowing people from different households to eat inside with the rule of six and encourages continued restrictions.

Nicholas Fletcher

Fletcher discusses his tough decision to vote with the Government despite opposition from constituents, supporting the strategy of reducing virus spread until a vaccine is available. He suggests providing exact case rate numbers for tier determination and allowing pubs and restaurants to open without substantial meal requirements.

Sally-Ann Hart Con

Hastings and Rye

Acknowledges the economic impact of lockdown measures but supports the government's approach as it values human life equally. Emphasises the need for targeted policies balancing disease spread and economic costs, appreciating specific policy changes such as extending the curfew and opening non-essential retail. Highlights the support needed for hospitality businesses, freelancers, and limited company directors.

Sara Britcliffe Con

Hyndburn

Highlights the struggles in her constituency of Hyndburn and Haslingden with a 45% drop in cases over the past week. Criticises government for inability to do right from wrong, supporting businesses but being told to tighten restrictions if infections rise. Supports more support for hospitality sector especially in tier 3 areas, questions why private indoor classes are not allowed while leisure centres can reopen. Asks for Army deployment and support to move down tiers.

Felicity Buchan Con

Worcester

Decides to vote with the government due to a regional approach, vaccine closeness, coming out of lockdown and less restrictions in tier 2. Emphasises the need for managing risks and considering non-covid health issues while focusing on coronavirus. Debunks claims that London got special treatment, showing data indicating otherwise.

Huw Merriman Con

Bexhill and Battle

Struggles with decision to support government measures or consider damage to life chances, livelihoods and life expectancy of constituents. Questions whether local NHS can cope and properly assess impact of restrictions. Reports lower covid rates in East Sussex, but acknowledges increased risk from poverty, cancer deaths, suicide, mental health issues, failed life chances for young people, domestic abuse due to current measures.

Dehenna Davison Con

Romford

Davison supports the new tier system as a necessary measure to protect lives while acknowledging the need for a more localised approach and enhanced support for the hospitality sector.

Richard Drax Con

South Dorset

Drax criticises the current restrictions, likening them to 'force feeding an hourly depressant' and urging for a rethink on tiered lockdowns as they lead to economic ruin. He calls for choices not controlled by the state.

Jon Ashworth Lab

Leicester South

The debate has been about balancing freedoms and risks during the pandemic. Jon Ashworth emphasised the need for detailed legislation to address anomalies in current restrictions, such as recent confusion around scotch egg sales. He highlighted that while all Members want to save lives, economic support must also be provided to constituents who are asked to sacrifice their livelihoods due to these measures. He noted that different approaches have been taken regarding tier movement and the geographical footprint for tiers, asking the Secretary of State about specific scorecards for each area. Ashworth also called for targeted mass testing alongside community isolation programmes, as well as adequate sick pay support.

Andy Carter Lab

Warrington South

Asked for assurance regarding mass testing availability in Warrington, highlighting that case rates have decreased from over 450 per 100,000 to 147 per 100,000 due to local efforts.

Derek Twigg Lab

Widnes and Halweood

Expressed condolences for the Secretary of State's loss in his family and asked about unintended consequences of covid on those who die from cancer or heart disease due to delayed treatment.

John Hayes Con

South Holland and The Deepings

Confirmed that tiers are not set in stone and that the December review will consider areas within counties based on their merits, aiming to ease restrictions where possible.

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