The MP for Chesterfield, Toby Perkins, has urged caution regarding the announced Covid rule changes announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

New guidance that will be implemented over the next 6 weeks will see an end to the legal requirement to self-isolate, the removal of free testing and, the end to isolation support grants and statutory sick pay from day 1 of time off work.

Toby has joined Labour Leader, Keir Starmer in calling these changes premature and not guided by the science.

He said “The current restrictions are pretty unobtrusive, and actually assist people to make their own decisions. I fear their announcement must have more to do with internal popularity in the Conservative Party than the largest medical evidence. Free testing is the best way to take personal responsibility. All of these are made more difficult by the government making this change.”

He continued “I recognise that we should be aiming for a time where these steps such as isolation and testing is not necessary but now is not the right time. We will sadly see more coronavirus in circulation with the possibility of many unable to isolate due to the lack of effective sick pay.”

The announcement was made as the Prime Minister is facing increasing pressure regarding the Metropolitan Police investigation into Downing Street parties with the conclusion of the inquiry to conclude shortly. It has begged the question about what the real motivation is for this change.