UK Government Vows ’to Consult Parliament’ on COVID-19 Restrictions

By Staff, Agencies

The UK government reached a last-ditch deal with a group of more than 80 Tory rebels in the House of Commons, pledging votes for MPs on any new national COVID-19 restrictions. 

"For significant national measures, with effect in the whole of England or UK-wide, we will consult Parliament. Wherever possible we will hold votes before such regulations come into force," Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Wednesday.

Hancock also urged the government "to act with speed when required", stressing that ministers "cannot hold up urgent regulations which are needed to control the virus and save lives."

He admitted that "scrutinized decisions are better decisions", voicing hope that advance votes would become a new convention for the pandemic.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called for "collective forbearance, common sense, and willingness to make sacrifices" when it comes to the fight against the coronavirus. He warned that tougher restrictions could be introduced if people fail to adhere to the current rules and COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

The developments followed The Telegraph quoting an unnamed Conservative lawmaker in northeast England as saying on Tuesday that "what happened with Boris [Johnson] only strengthened the argument for greater parliamentary scrutiny of new rules.”

Earlier this week, Johnson apologized on his Twitter page for "misspeaking" about his own coronavirus restriction rules on social gatherings in northeast England and beyond.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, he said that "in the northeast and other areas where extra tight measures have been brought in, you should follow the guidance of local authorities - but it's six in a home or six in hospitality but as I understand it, not six outside."

The remarks clearly ran counter to government guidelines, which warn those living in Northumberland, Newcastle, North and South Tyneside, as well as Gateshead, Sunderland, and County Durham "not to mix with people outside their household or bubble in indoor settings, including pubs and restaurants."

Johnson's apology cam as Parliamentary Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle reprimanded the government for failing to consult the House of Commons on the new COVID-19 restriction measures.

The lockdown imposed in March was mostly lifted over the summer, but a recent rise in new coronavirus cases has now prompted the government to tighten restrictions again, including 10 p.m. closing time on bars and restaurants.