CROSS-PARTY MPs’ from the North East have called for urgent action and certainty from the Government on its plan to prevent the spread of the Omicron Covid variant. 

Pressure is mounting on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to announce new measures over the Christmas period after worrying figures show cases of the new variant continue to rise at a rapid rate. 

Details of a possible post-Christmas lockdown emerged over the weekend which included restrictions on indoor mixing.

But government ministers have reportedly resisted calls from scientific advisors to introduce new measures before Christmas.

Mr Johnson is reportedly considering a return to Step two Covid restrictions from December 27, but an official announcement is yet to be made. 

Read more: North East sees cases of Omicron more than triple in latest Covid figures

The Northern Echo: Dehenna Davison MPDehenna Davison MP

Bishop Auckland Conservative MP Dehenna Davison previously voted down plans for vaccine passports to be made mandatory for large venues and called for clarity over the plans. 

She said: “In the last two days, I’ve had pubs and restaurants contact me asking if they should place food and drinks orders. I’ve had emails from people asking if they should postpone their wedding for the 5th time, or if they can see their mum on Christmas.

“We really need some certainty.”

Stockton North Labour MP Alex Cunningham called for an immediate update.

He said: “We need urgent action to tackle the spread of Omicron, support businesses and people through financial measures, and protect the NHS.

“The Prime Minister needs to provide clear direction for these – and for people wondering about their Christmas plans – but is sadly, although not unsurprisingly, failing to give our country the leadership it needs.

“What needs to be done should always be guided by science but Labour will always put the national interest first and support the efforts to protect the public health of the nation.”

The Northern Echo: Kevan Jones MPKevan Jones MP (Image: Contributor)

North Durham Labour MP Kevan Jones agreed, saying: “More restrictions are I think inevitable if you look at the increase in daily infections and I would support them if they help stop further hospitalisations and deaths. These restrictions will I know not be popular with some but are going to be needed.”

The government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) warned daily hospital admissions could reach 3,000 without further restrictions, while cases of Omicron tripled in the North East in four days. 

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