This morning Sheffield City Region mayor Dan Jarvis revealed the area would be bumped up into the toughest coronavirus regulations after talks with the Government yesterday and today.
The new restrictions will apply to businesses in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.
Prior to the announcement communities secretary Robert Jenrick confirmed on BBC Breakfast this morning (21 October) the area was under discussion, but did not say when more information would become available.
“It wouldn’t be right for me to pre-empt an announcement,” said Jenrick.
“We have had quite detailed conversations through the course of yesterday and this morning and I expect an announcement to be made by the mayor of South Yorkshire Dan Jarvis [this morning].”
Refused to give detail
Jenrick refused to give detail on when an announcement would be made this morning, saying it would only be fair to the people of the region if it came from their mayor, but did add “it would be made very shortly”.
The office of Sheffield City Region Mayor Jarvis issued a statement last night confirming he, the Government as well as other leaders in the area had held discussions about tier three restrictions.
“Mayor Dan Jarvis, the leaders of South Yorkshire’s local authorities and the Government have been in extensive and constructive talks over the coronavirus alert level for the regions,” the statement read.
“These talks continue as all sides seek to agree a plan which will protect lives, jobs and our NHS. Full details will be announced as soon as the restrictions and guidance are confirmed.”
Prior to the announcement that Greater Manchester would go into tier three restrictions yesterday, the region’s mayor Andy Burnham had led lengthy talks with the Government to agree a support package for those who would be hardest hit by the measures.
Pubs to close
Under the guidance pubs, bars and other venues that do not serve substantial meals must close.
Burnham had fought for a package of support that would be considerably higher than agreed with Liverpool and Lancashire.
However, at the time, the Government did not yield to the mayor’s demands and said the area would receive a £22m support plan in line with others already agreed.
During negotiations Burnham demanded a £65m plan, which the Prime Minister countered with a £60m one. Burnham rejected the offer and according to reports Johnson said £22m would be given.
However, it is now reported the Government will honour the £60m sum previously tabled.