Health Committee Statement on New COVID-19 Restrictions

September 25, 2020

In response to the Government’s announcement on new restrictions in light of rising COVID-19 infections and the prospect of further restrictions in London, Dr Onkar Sahota AM, Chair of the London Assembly Health Committee, said:

“A lot of Londoners will be worried or confused following the announcement of new restrictions by the Government. London’s population is large and diverse – almost 9 million people – and there are significant variations in the rates of COVID-19 between different boroughs. Boroughs like Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, and Havering have all reported infection rates of more than 30 per 100,000. This is alarming and localised lockdowns in hotspot areas are still on the table as a possible measure to control the number of infections.

“The Mayor of London needs to work closely with the Government, health bodies and local boroughs to assess and clearly communicate the most appropriate and effective measures for London. They must do all they can collectively to reverse the rise in infections, in order to avoid a full lockdown being required in the capital. It is also vital the Government urgently demonstrates that the Test and Trace system is fit for purpose. 

“Clear, consistent and targeted communications are greatly needed, so people know exactly what they can and cannot do and the Mayor is well placed to ensure that Londoners have the information they need to stay safe.

“The London Transition Board, co-chaired by the Mayor and the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick MP, is responsible for controlling the virus and responding to outbreaks, whilst also co-ordinating London’s emergence from the first COVID-19 lockdown. It is crucial that this Board ensures Londoners’ safety, wellbeing and livelihoods are at the forefront of any decisions made for London.”