Further restrictions for North East pubs and restaurants could be implemented as hospital admissions increase

It comes as figures show an increase in the number of hospital admissions in the North East – which are up by 35% from 65 to 88 in the seven days to October 1, in comparison to a peak of 507 on April 1.

There were 69 patients on ventilators on October 1 compared to 43 on September 24, and a peak of 302 on April 11.

A Downing Street spokesman has said a ‘range of options’ are being considered as cases in the North East and North West of England continue to rapidly rise.

It follows unconfirmed reports pubs could be closed as early as Monday in a bid to slow the spread of the virus.

“We are seeing coronavirus cases rise across the entire country but they are rising faster in the North East and the North West,” said the Downing Street spokesman.

“We are keeping the data under close review and we are considering a range of options to reduce the spread of the virus in order to protect communities and to protect the NHS.”

Asked about infections in hospitality in England as Scotland prepares to introduce fresh restrictions, the spokesman said: “Early data does suggest that a significant proportion of exposure to the virus is seen in the hospitality sector and that is even more pronounced in younger age groups where we have been seeing the most rapid rise in infections.

“The data is new and we will continue to gather evidence and review it.”

It comes alongside confirmation a vote will take place in the Commons on the 10pm curfew for pubs and restaurants, paving the way for a potential rebellion from Conservative backbenchers.

Fresh financial support for industries and areas affected by new measures to curb the resurgence of coronavirus could also be on the way.

The spokesman added: “We’ve provided a package of support to businesses of all sizes so far that’s worth £190 billion, with particular schemes to support the hospitality industry.

“Any decisions we take will not be made lightly, protecting jobs, particularly the two million in the UK’s hospitality sector, has been a priority throughout our response to the pandemic.”

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