Yorkshire mayors call for caution as rules change

The two Yorkshire metro mayors Dan Jarvis and Tracy Brabin have raised concerns about the fact that the wearing of facemasks will become voluntary in July.

The Prime Minister announced that almost all restrictions currently in place, including social distancing and the wearing of face coverings indoors, will be lifted on July 19.

The new restrictions will mean there is no more limits on social contact and people are allowed to gather in groups of any size, the “one metre plus” rule will go in almost all settings – airports are an exception to this, all businesses can reopen, that face coverings are no longer a legal requirement but the Prime Minister noted he would still be wearing one in crowded situations, and people are no longer required to work from home.

Tracy brabin Dan Jarvis

South Yorkshire Mayor Dan Jarvis commenting ahead of the announcement said: “I’m concerned that with case numbers rising exponentially, this is not the right time to drop the requirement to wear masks in enclosed spaces and on public transport.

“This could cause real anxiety for those who are particularly vulnerable but have no option other than to use public transport or work in enclosed spaces. The pandemic has made existing inequalities worse, and some occupations have been more exposed to the virus. This could yet again put these people more at risk.

“Masks are a simple and effective way to protect yourself and others from Covid, while trying to keep our country as open as possible.

“Any decision to lift these restrictions must be backed up by evidence that it’s safe to do so.”

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin added: “Today’s message put the onus on the individual and on businesses to ‘self manage’ what has been mandatory in recent months. This will have left many feeling confused.

“The pandemic has heightened existing inequalities within our communities, and I urge the government to reconsider this, so that we don’t create a situation where people become excluded. We also must consider the safety of those working on public transport.

“Face coverings have been shown to be effective in cutting the transmission of Covid. In a recent study, the majority of passengers said they would lose confidence in using public transport if the wearing of facemasks was no longer a requirement to travel.

“Cases are rising sharply and lifting the requirement to wear masks now would put people at risk, especially if they are young and haven’t had both their vaccine doses.

“We need to protect people from the debilitating effects of long-Covid whilst supporting businesses to better implement ventilation of their premises where required.”

Brabin continued: “Yes, West Yorkshire, I too want a freedom day. But we need to help people through this transition, support them with the right advice and advocate for those who need support through the coming months.”