'Mixed messages from government' says South Yorkshire mayor

South Yorkshire mayor Dan Jarvis has accused the government of ‘mixed messages’ following the latest announcement on the easing of lockdown.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a national address outlined new guidance on the Covid-19 lockdown, such as members of two households meeting in a public place - but keeping two metres apart.

Another talking point was Mr Johnson urging people to go back to work if they could not work from home provided they try to avoid public transport .

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Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab made some progress in trying to clarify some of the new guidance, but said people should ‘use common sense’.

Mayor Dan JarvisMayor Dan Jarvis
Mayor Dan Jarvis

However, Dan Jarvis, Sheffield City Region mayor, said the statement runs the risk of ‘muddying the message’ when ‘clarity is crucial’ and social distancing measures had ‘started to fray’ in areas of the country, including South Yorkshire.

He said councils in regions like South Yorkshire need a ‘significant stimulus package’ to be used to tackle ‘deep-seated problems’ in society and the regional economy.

Mr Jarvis said: “We have already seen social distancing measures start to fray in some places, as the government's mixed messages give the impression things are beginning to return to normal.

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“Concerningly, the political consensus we had across the UK is starting to crumble. The vague instruction to ‘stay alert’ is only going to make that worse.

“The government is understandably not able to give an exact timeline for the easing of the lockdown, but they do need to be clear about what conditions need to be in place before the lockdown will be eased, and the scientific evidence that judgement is based upon.

“Critically, we need to listen to and follow the medical and scientific advice and proceed with caution to avoid triggering a second peak.

“The government needs to get a grip on their communications, work tirelessly to get the ‘R’ rate below one and further develop testing and tracing capabilities. A credible strategy of test, trace, and isolate is key.

“I urge the government to work closely with mayors and council leaders to ensure any easing of the lockdown is smooth and orderly and done in such a way that supports communities and businesses.”