I voted in support of the Government’s new measures because I believe that, on balance, they represent a proportionate response to the alarming and very rapid rise in cases of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. They help to buy time for far more people to get a booster jab which will protect us from severe illness, keep beds available in our local hospitals, and get us back on the path to normal life.
I have listened to many people, and asked ministers tough questions, in coming to my decision on how to vote. I entirely understand why some constituents are uncomfortable about having to show a pass to go to the places they want to visit. But I believe the option of either showing a negative lateral flow test result or proof of vaccination status is a reasonable compromise.
We must not forget that many other countries have far harsher restrictions. I want local venues to stay open, to protect jobs in a part of the economy that has been battered: if showing a pass is a way to achieve that, I believe it is an acceptable price to pay. It's also what I've heard from local businesses.
I know that doubts have been raised about the strength of the evidence we have at the moment. But when the Chief Medical Officer warns of cases rising at a phenomenal rate, and the prospect of a much higher peak than ever before in hospitals that are already close to capacity, I feel I have to listen – and vote accordingly.
We can all play our own part to overcome Omicron, and ensure these restrictions remain for as short a time as possible, by encouraging our family and friends to get boosted now. I have also published a Q&A on my website with further details about these measures. It can be viewed here: https://www.robbutler.org.uk/news/plan-b-qa.
