NHS Providers CEO Chris Hopson said: “The reality is the progress we’ve made as a whole is at the lowest end of expectations.” NHS Providers has explained to the Prime Minister the need to exercise “extreme caution” when making the decision to move any areas into lower coronavirus tiers in England. The tier system is being reviewed on Wednesday.
If an area of the country needs to be moved to tier 3 then this should be done so “as soon as this is needed, without any delay” say NHS chiefs.
Over Christmas, up to three households will be able to meet together in homes between December 23 and 27.
Up to three households will be able to meet in places of worship.
Speaking to Sky News, NHS Providers CEO Mr Hopson said health workers are “really worried” about an increase of coronavirus cases over Christmas.
Downing Street said that these decisions would be based on the latest available data.
The spokeswoman said: “We have introduced strengthened local restrictions to protect the progress gained during national restrictions.
“This will be used to reduce pressure on the NHS and ultimately save lives.
“On top of our record NHS investment, this winter we are providing an extra £3bn to maintain independent sector and Nightingale hospital surge capacity.
“We have a further £450 million to upgrade and expand A&Es.”
