In response to the Prime Minister announcing a new national lockdown, Cllr Georgia Gould, Chair of London Councils, said:

“It is heartbreaking that once again we are facing a national lockdown, but it is absolutely the right decision. Covid-19 cases are increasing at a dangerous rate and the NHS is in crisis.

“This will be devastating news for all Londoners and will hit disadvantaged families, children, clinically vulnerable people and local businesses hardest of all.

“Boroughs are digging deep to protect and support all our communities across the capital, drawing strength from the resilience they have shown over the past year.

“However we will also be clear with national Government and others that more resources will be needed to deliver vital local services and support businesses struggling to survive.

“Despite the fatigue we all feel, we must all continue to follow public health advice – hands, face and space – if we are to bring down the number of coronavirus cases and hospital admissions in our city.

“By working together over the next few months we have the best possible chance of keeping ourselves, our loved ones and our community safe as the vaccine rollout continues.”