The Prime Minister has set out how we will continue to fight back against the resurgent virus, protecting our NHS and saving lives whilst keeping our children in school and our economy running to safeguard jobs and livelihoods. 

Over recent weeks, many constituents have contacted me about what the various rules mean and how they apply to our area. That is why we have simplified and standardised our local rules by introducing a three-tiered system of Local Covid Alert Levels – working with local leaders and ensuring we protect the NHS and its ability to respond to the pandemic and provide urgent care to those who need it.

We took robust but targeted and proportionate action in September, including introducing the Rule of Six, restrictions to hospitality opening hours, and advice for people to work from home where they can, alongside tougher enforcement. In the past four weeks, the number of Covid patients admitted to intensive care units in hospitals in some parts of the country has increased sevenfold. We must act now to control the spread of the virus and protect the NHS, so we can keep cancer treatments, elective surgeries and other vital diagnostic services going. 

The Prime Minister has set out the further steps needed to control the spread of the virus, including a new system of Local Covid Alert Levels in England. Areas within England will be placed into medium, high and very high levels, and the Government is working with local leaders to decide which areas are covered by the very high alert level, and the appropriate interventions in those areas. At the moment Great Yarmouth is categorised as a MEDIUM RISK area. This helpful graphic shows what rules apply in our area and you can find other full details on the NHS website. 

Alongside this specific measure we have announced new support to protect jobs and support businesses required to shut because of restrictions – including the expanded Job Support Scheme, under which businesses required to close will receive grants, up to £2,100 a month, to pay two thirds of the wages of staff who cannot work. Those businesses will also receive up to £3,000 in grant support from the Government each month.

We will continue to do everything we can to protect the NHS and make sure it can continue to deliver the essential services people rely on – and it remains vital that everyone follows the rules to help contain the virus.