On the 30th of November, I made my position known to Government - I voted to ensure our NHS can cope during this difficult winter but it came on the condition that the Government ensures these regulations are kept under review and that people in Broxtowe, where required, have fair access to support to prevent people being unduly affected by the highest restrictions.
I am relieved to see that rates in Broxtowe have gone down significantly since we were placed in tier 3. However, concerns remain for our community and those who care for us in the NHS. I have spoken extensively with Jonathan Gribbin Director of Public Health for Nottinghamshire who has confirmed that the regulations are here to protect us all and are designed to keep the rates low in Broxtowe. Indeed, the lower the number of cases gets the more likely we are to move down through the tiers and start to feel like things can return to normal again. He has made clear to Nottinghamshire MPs that, in the meantime, our local health and care services continue to experience severe pressures.
I know this is tough but staying in tier 3 does give us better hope - with financial backing in the meantime - to see us reach tier 1 in the coming months.
Be assured, I will continue to monitor all coronavirus restrictions closely and will reflect this strength of feeling with colleagues in Parliament.