Wakefield to remain in Tier 3 Covid restrictions over Christmas, Matt Hancock confirms

The district is currently under the strictest level of coronavirus restrictions, known as Tier 3: Very High.

And, speaking earlier this week, Health Secretary Matt Hancock sparked speculation that West Yorkshire could be lowered to Tier 2 following a government review of the restrictions in place.

But speaking in Parliament today, Mr Hancock confirmed there would be no change in the restrictions in place in Wakefield.

He praised people in areas under Tier 3 restrictions for their efforts in reducing coronavirus rates, but said: "For the vast majority of places in Tier 3 we’re not making a change today."

Only, Bristol and North Somerset will move from Tier 3 to Tier 2.

This means Leeds, Bradford, Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield will remain in Tier 3.

A further review into the tiers is expected to take place on December 30.

​Councillor Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: "I know that this announcement will be disappointing to many, but it is so important that we all continue to do all we can to keep driving down the infection rate in the district.

"Hospital admissions remain high and therefore we must continue to act to help protect our local health services and save lives.

"I understand that many of our local businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry, are struggling and remaining closed will be another blow - but I want to reassure them, and all the businesses affected, that we are on their side and will be doing all we can to get them the financial support they need.

"These restrictions are going to continue to be a huge challenge to us all especially at a time of year when we usually socialise more often with our families and friends. But we must continue to work together to keep slowing down the infection rate in the district."

The current rate of cases in the Wakefield district is 152.7 per 100,000, according to the NHS, below the national average of 201.7 per 100,000.

A total of 14,839 people have tested positive for the virus in the district since March.