How Sunderland's MPs reacted to new Covid-19 measures for the North East

A letter sent by Sunderland Central MP Julie Elliott, and signed by the region’s 15 Labour MPs, unites them in a call for further detail from Health Secretary Matt Hancock after the announcement earlier today Thursday, September 17.

The restrictions, which start tomorrow, are:

*Residents must not socialise with others outside their household or support bubble in private homes and gardens

*Hospitality for food and drink will be restricted to table service only

*Late-night restriction on opening hours, with leisure and entertainment venues to close from 10pm to 5am

*Not to socialise with others outside their own household in public venues

*Only to use public transport for essential journeys, such as school or work

*Take holidays only within a household or support bubble

*Avoid attending amateur and semi-professional sporting events as spectators

The statement asks for clarification on issues covering Sunderland, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland and County Durham.

They say they support measures to save lives, but ask if household-level information and contact tracing data will be available to councils and what extra testing capacity will be set up in the region.

Houghton and Sunderland South MP and shadow chief secretary to the treasury Bridget Phillipson said: “These restrictions are a real blow for our region.

"While they are needed to prevent the further spread of Covid-19 and save lives, I know residents will be keen to ensure they are eased as soon as it is safe to do so.

“We all have a part to play at this critical time, and I would urge everyone in our community to follow the public health guidance.

“But we also need a firm commitment from Government to work closely with local authorities, and urgently improve testing capacity across our region.

“Workers and businesses will also be worried about the impact these restrictions will have, and it's vital the Government sets out how it will support them at this challenging time.”

Sharon Hodgson, the MP for Washington and Sunderland West, added: "I know that this is a difficult situation for many people, but I know that if we work together we can all help to bring down the infection rates.”

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