Responding to the announcement by Matt Hancock today that London will be moving to Tier 3 restrictions from Wednesday, BMA London regional council chair Dr Gary Marlowe said:

“With the case numbers rising at an alarming rate across the capital, the move into Tier 3 restrictions is absolutely crucial to protect lives, reduce the spread of the virus and limit the impact on an already overwhelmed NHS.

“The escalation in London shows how quickly progress to control the virus has been undone and with the vaccination roll out still in its infancy, there is now no option other than to move London into the highest Tier.  

“As a GP working in London, I have seen, first-hand, the sharp rise in the numbers of my patients testing positive in the last week. The reality is that some patients testing positive in London will require hospital admission – to an NHS already buckling under the strain. Even with Christmas round the corner, now is not the time to let down our guard.

“We need to see consistent and widespread mask wearing - where people are less than two metres apart - and clear measures to monitor, support and enforce compliance of infection control measures.”  

Ends

Notes to editors

The BMA is a trade union and professional association representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.

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