Peterborough MP rebels against government over coronavirus tiers

Paul Bristow was one of 55 Conservative MPs to oppose the new system in the House of Commons last night, with the measures being carried by 291 votes to 78.

North West Cambridgeshire MP Shailesh Vara sided with the Government, as did the Conservative MPs for North East Cambridgeshire (Stephen Barclay), Grantham & Stamford (Gareth Davies), South Holland & the Deepings (John Hayes) and Tom Pursglove (Corby).

Huntingdon MP Jonathan Djanogly was another Tory rebel to vote against the new tiers, which range from medium (one) to very high (three).

The vast majority of the population are in either Tier 2 or 3 with the national lockdown now having ended.

Peterborough and Cambridgeshire are in Tier 2, with the following restrictions:

- No household mixing with people not in your support bubble indoors

- The Rule of Six will apply outside

- Pubs and Restaurants to shut at 11pm and provide table service only

- Alcohol in pubs can only be served as part of a ‘substantial meal’

- Spectators allowed at sports events and live performances in limited numbers (2,000 for Peterborough United)

- Personal care including hairdressing is allowed.

Mr Bristow has been critical of the substantial meal element of the Tier 2 restriction which he believes could mean the end for many pubs and has written to Boris Johnson on the issue.

He tweeted yesterday: “The #substantialmeal rule is unworkable and may become increasingly embarrassing.”

He has since posted a video on his social media pages where he states: “I voted against the tier system because I’ve got deep concerns about jobs in hospitality and I think we needed a bit more support there, but I still support the Government and I think we’re doing a fantastic job managing an incredibly difficult pandemic.”

Mr Vara said: “The tier system has been designed and allocated in response to the latest data available and ensures the most appropriate action is taken in the appropriate areas.

“The previous restrictions have been shown to be effective and it is crucial we proceed cautiously.

“The new tier system is designed to continue the good work and keep infection rates under control. I am fully supportive of this objective.”