“Ministers have been forced into retreat over “local lockdowns” after councils threatened to defy the rules. The Government on Tuesday night changed its advice to tackle outbreaks of the Indian variant of Covid within less than 24 hours of a row erupting over the policy, which critics said had descended into “farce”. The original guidance urged 1.7 million people in eight parts of England to restrict their travel in and out of their area and to socialise outdoors instead of indoors where possible. Ministers failed to pass on the new advice to local health and council leaders, who then told residents they did not have to follow the guidelines. The Government said on Tuesday it would “update” the guidance, insisting it was up to individuals whether to follow it.” – Daily Telegraph
- Williamson ‘failed children with lack of pandemic plan’, damning report from MPs says – The Times
Political sketch:
- Oops! This is another fine mess you’ve gotten us into, ministers: Henry Deedes watches the Government’s local lockdowns U-turn – Daily Mail
- Grumpy Tories smell mutiny during dictator Hancock’s island jaunt, Quentin Letts – The Times