Ministers are currently considering a new crackdown that could lead to millions of new ‘Tier Four’ restrictions being lifted after Christmas.
After the five-day holiday season, the government is fighting to keep coronavirus cases low, prompting orders to ‘stay at home’ as infection rates are high in some parts of England.
Schools could be closed for an extra week and unnecessarily essential stores could be closed. Of the three concerns, the ban is not strong enough to control the virus.
A Whitehall official told The Times: ‘There is a case for going beyond three levels and it is getting stronger.
‘[That could mean] Non-essential retail off, order sitting at home. Need to actively consider in conversations with local authorities. ‘
More than two-thirds of England’s population will live within three-tier restrictions from Saturday after Matt Hancock’s new detention was announced on Saturday.
The health secretary told lawmakers he regretted the ban, but “there is a strong view across the government that these measures are necessary.”
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAG) warned in November that a fourth level could be needed if the three-bi system did not work.
A statement reads: ‘There is a particular issue of uncertainty about the impact of the levels, especially Tier 3.
‘Tests and traces, including mass tests, are most effective when the magnitude is low.
Even the most effective tests and trace systems will have very little effect if the caseloads are high.
‘The effect of levels can vary depending on the characteristics of different regions, a“ Tier 4 ”should be considered for parts of the country where Tier 3 epidemics are not able to shrink.
‘This is especially important for the winter festive period when considering relaxation in action.
“It’s very important to keep events flat or reduce them now and then.”
Discussions have started around possible levels after Boris Johnson denied the ‘cancellation of Christmas’, with the Prime Minister confirming that the three families will still be able to form a bubble from 23 to 22 December.
The Tory leader called on the public to keep the festivities “short” and “short” as leaders warned that his decision would result in “many lives”.
Wales are set to go into another lockdown on 26 December, with Northern Ireland backing a six-week shutdown plan on Boxing Day last night.
Scottish leaders have acknowledged more stringent restrictions after Christmas – including lockdowns – which is a ‘possibility’.
More: ‘Muscleless’ Santa Experiences Positive Days After Festive Photoshoot With 50 Kids
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