Political leaders back new lockdown measures but slam Government handling of changes

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and deputy mayor Bev Hughes also put their names to the statement, which was drawn up after the region's top politicians met on Friday morning.

They gave their support to the measures which came into force at midnight banning separate households from meeting indoors, saying rising Covid-19 case numbers across Greater Manchester meant action was clearly needed.

However, they strongly criticised the Government for its communication and how the changes had been introduced.

The statement said: "This week, things changed significantly with an increase in those testing positive for Covid-19 in nine out of the 10 boroughs. We agree with the Government that this provides a clear evidential basis for modest restrictions to be introduced to get the rate of infection down and down faster.

"However, the Mayor and all of the Leaders have expressed concerns about the way the Government handled the communications about this change which has caused confusion and distress for our residents.

"We would strongly recommend that, where any future announcements of this nature are to be made, full supporting details should be available to the public at the moment any public or media statement is made."

The leaders also said further clarity was needed on whether hospitality businesses can continue operating in outdoor areas and on exactly how many people can gather in outdoor spaces.

The statement said: "We believe that this announcement will cause further difficulties for restaurants. Given the adaptations restaurants have made at great expense there is a case for the new arrangements not applying to them.

"However, if the Government will not allow different households to meet in socially-distanced arrangements in restaurants, then further support will be needed for hospitality businesses that have recently re-opened."

It is also unclear why gardens are included with homes in the list of places households cannot meet, the leaders said.

An announcement by the prime minister that the shielding policy and Government support for those staying at home ends on Saturday has also caused concern.

The statement said: "We believe this will cause considerable uncertainty and risks sending mixed messages to those shielding in Greater Manchester. We therefore call on the Government to extend the shielding arrangements in the areas that are subject to intervention until these restrictions are lifted. Our councils will need additional financial support to help us deliver that additional support."

The leaders also called for improvements to the track and trace system and for better financial support for those who are told they have to self-isolate.