Still no Tier 3 agreement with Greater Manchester as Boris Johnson prepares to enforce rules this evening
Despite yet another round of a discussions and a midday deadline, the government and Greater Manchester leaders have still been unable to come to an agreement on a deal for the region entering Tier 3.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is now expected to enforce the measures himself – pushing all ten boroughs into the ‘very high’ risk category.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick confirmed that talks had broken down this afternoon, stating: “I’m disappointed that despite recognising the gravity of the situation, the mayor has been unwilling to take the action that is required to get the spread of the virus under control in Greater Manchester and reach an agreement with the government.
“I have therefore advised the Prime Minister that these discussions have concluded without an agreement.”
According to ITV political correspondent Paul Brand, the “assumption is that these measures will now be imposed regardless.”
Brand also suggested that Tier 3 restrictions will last at least 28 days.
The government allegedly wants to close all pubs/bars (unless they are serving substantial meals), betting shops, casinos, bingo halls, adult gaming centres and soft play areas in Greater Manchester under the new Tier 3 rules.
Gyms may be allowed to remain open.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be holding a press conference at 5pm this afternoon to outline the “next steps for Greater Manchester”.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock will give a Commons statement at 7pm.
The government and local leaders have going back and forth for 10 days to try and determine the tier status of Greater Manchester.
The sticking point appears to be the furlough payments – with the region arguing for 80% of wages covered instead of the 67% offered by the current Job Support Scheme.