Covid-19 admissions in Sheffield ‘similar to March if we don’t act now’, says MP

The Labour MP said yesterday he was expecting news on a new, local lockdown to be announced this weekend or early next week.

Mr Betts said ‘I cannot confirm what sort of lockdown measures will be introduced’.

However he wrote on Facebook (SIC): “Individuals in effected areas will have two thirds of their wages covered by the Government if there employer is forced to shut due to these measures.”

Writing on Facebook last night, he added: “Unfortunately Sheffield and the North of England are heading into a lockdown.

“The infection rate is obviously high but this has been predominantly among younger people, however the evidence around hospital admissions is clear and shows we will be facing admissions similar to March within a month if we do not act now.

“This cannot be allowed to happen.”

The MP’s comments come as Sheffield’s latest Covid-19 rate to October 4 showed a consistent rise as cases reached more than 300 positive cases per 100,000 people.

Council bosses say they are still waiting for a Government announcement to be made and they will provide further updates as soon as they know what the measures are.

However possibilities include a ban on households mixing or further restrictions for hospitality venues.

Sheffield director of public of health Greg Fell said: "Until a formal announcement is made by the Secretary of State we do not know what extra measures will be put in place to keep our city safe.”

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