Leeds reacts to "completely unacceptable" Tier 3 announcement as call for extra cash issued

Richard Burgon is a Labour politician - who has been the MP for Leeds East since 2015.

He criticised the government's decision to return Leeds to Tier 3 "given the extra financial support" the city needs.

Mr Burgon said businesses need an "additional financial support package" and called for "proper sick pay" for residents isolating.

Responding to today's decision to put Leeds into Tier 3 Richard Burgon said: “It's completely unacceptable that areas like Leeds that are in Tier 3 and have the toughest restrictions are not being given the extra financial support our areas need.

“Businesses need an additional financial support package and people need proper sick pay to help them isolate.”

Leeds residents took to social media to give their own views on the latest announcement.

Paul Howard tweeted: "I don’t mind that here in Leeds we’ll stay in tier 3, but what I do object to is that if infection rates demand that 3 is appropriate, how can it be right that all of a sudden for 5 days in late December, the shackles will be off irrespective of infection rates...bah humbug!"

Alex Wilkins questioned whether the government had made the right decision.

He tweeted: "Cases have fallen dramatically since then. Why are we still in tier 3 when it’s dropped off that much? Is there a way out of tier 3?

"When there’s data that doesn’t justify it and no map out of it, very few will listen."

Angela Meltham added: "Leeds will never get out of Tier 3 because the remainder of West Yorkshire’s infection rates are so high. Thoroughly depressing."

Stuart Watson said he believed the new announcement would be a disaster for hospitality.

He added: "RIP to the hospitality industry as we knew it.

"A lot won’t survive this.

"Hope I’m wrong."

However, former Leeds resident Donna Petch was more positive and sympathised with people currently housed in the city.

She said: "Bigs hugs Leeds, loved my time living there, we (North East England) are in the same boat too.

"Hang on for the review."

What is Tier 3 and what does it mean for Leeds?

- Household mixing is banned anywhere indoors

- Two households can mix in limited circumstances in parks and fields, but only if observing the rule of six

- Non essential shops can reopen following the national lockdown - Tier 3 allows shops to be open

- Pubs, bars and restaurants cannot open their doors - they must operate for collection and delivery only

- People in Tier 3 are advised not to travel outside their area

- Hotels must close and overnight stays outside the local area are not permitted

- Wedding receptions are banned in Tier 3 areas but ceremonies can go ahead with 15 guests

- Funerals will allow up to 30 guests only

- Large sport events are banned from taking place but drive-in events like drive-in cinemas will be allowed

The majority of England will be in Tier 2, where the restrictions mean a ban on households mixing indoors and pubs, and restaurants only able to sell alcohol with a “substantial meal”.

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