Responding to Plan B measures being brought in by government in order to slow transmission of the new Omicron variant of Covid-19, Cllr Georgia Gould, Chair of London Councils, said:
“London must once again pull together and draw on the incredible strength and resilience of our communities to deal with the latest resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic. Working together we can keep London safe.
“It has been truly awe-inspiring to see the city come together in the face of adversity over the past two years and I know we can do it again.
“It’s essential that the government recognises that this is not business as usual for our residents and communities and will have a very detrimental impact on them. They need to commit to additional funding to ensure that boroughs are able to fully support Londoners through this difficult period.
“London boroughs are working with London’s NHS to support our residents and businesses and deliver the vaccination programme. We will also be working with our amazing local community groups – including charities, churches and mosques.
“Any negative impact of the new measures on Londoners and our business community will be cause for serious concern and we will be actively working with government and others to mitigate this.
“Please do come and get vaccinated as soon as you can, whether it is your first, second or booster dose, to ensure you and your loved ones are protected.
“Getting tested regularly, so you know whether or not you have the virus, is also really important, particularly when you’ve been in contact with more people recently – for example, if you’ve travelled on a crowded Tube carriage
“Everyone now has to wear face masks in shops and on public transport by law, unless you are exempt.
“It sounds simple but following public health hygiene advice is still very effective in preventing transmission of Covid-19 to your family, friends and colleagues.
“Make sure to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, using soap and warm water. Keeping your distance from others and ensuring you meet outside or in well ventilated spaces can also help to stop or disrupt transmission of the virus.
“I am so proud to be a Londoner and to be standing alongside my fellow residents as we face this challenge. Together, we will get through this.”
