A Whitehall document leaked to national newspapers is warning local government officials and directors of public health to prepare for a return to the imposition of controversial ‘Plan B’ coronavirus measures.
In an email sent late last week by the UK Health Security Agency, local authority Chief Executives and council leaders were asked if they would support the roll out of an ‘undefined Plan B’. The responses are being fed back directly into the Cabinet Office.
The report has made headlines in most national media today, with even staunchly conservative Mail on Sunday joining the fray reporting a health agency official polling local government opinion: “I have been asked to canvas opinion on the level of support for immediate roll out of the Winter Plan – Plan B.”
The restrictions being reviewed focus on mandating wearing of face masks in indoor settings and transport, and workers being encouraged to work from home.
Mass gatherings at football stadia, and all venues with more than 10,000 attendees could see vaccine passports introduced, with nightclubs also on that list.
The stall in booster vaccinations matching the speed and efficiency of the first and second roll out is at the heart of the UK Health Security Agency’s concerns.
Conservative MP Mark Harper, chair of the Covid Recovery Group, is furious saying: “This leaked memo directly contradicts the assurances given by Ministers only a few days ago.” It also comes after the Prime Minister said current levels of cases weren’t outside of the “parameters” of predictions they are working to.
Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth last night said: “With a mounting tide of Covid sickness and hospitals under crushing pressure it’s no surprise Tory ministers are secretly plotting to bring back masks and introduce vaccine passports. But whether it’s plan A, B or C to get on top of this deadly disease Sajid Javid needs to urgently fix the stuttering jabs campaign.
“Vaccination should be our wall of defence but that wall is crumbling. The complacency must be ditched, we need vaccination fixed.”
With The Chancellor facing his budget next week, the measures being considered would require further substantial support for business. Is he willing to provide it, is the bigger question.
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Hospitality & Catering News: Cabinet Office polling local government support for ‘Plan B’ coronavirus measures. – 24 October 2021 – Cabinet Office polling local government support for ‘Plan B’ coronavirus measures.
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