Wrexham’s MP says “numbers are still small” and is “disappointed to not be consulted” on lockdown decision

Sarah Atherton MP has said it is “important that we all do our part” to tackle the virus by respecting the new restrictions in place for the Wrexham area.

Wrexham’s MP cited the latest Public Health Wales figures that show the rolling 7 day cases per 100,000 figure has gone from 33.1 to 43.4 with an intervention point of being around 50 cases per 100k. The new figures are delayed, so reflect a position a few days ago, and came with the the now usual note from PHW that there could be lag in data. Day on day figures are +18 as well as that cases per 100k rise, and by comments from Wrexham Council and Welsh Government earlier they are expected to rise further. Positivity rate for Wrexham is 6.8% on the day on day figures.

Local MP Sarah Atherton commented shortly after the new figures were published, saying: “In the last 7 days, 59 people in the Wrexham County Borough Council area (covering a population of roughly 130,000) have tested positive for COVID-19. We do know that there is an upwards trend in the number of positive cases, however the numbers are still small.”

“We must take into account the consequences of lockdown measures on peoples mental health, wellbeing, finances and jobs. Whilst I understand, and respect, the decision of the Welsh Government in imposing these measures, I do not believe that the number of cases justifies the blanket restrictions we are seeing.”

“I was disappointed to not be consulted on the decision to impose lockdown measures in Wrexham, but I am pleased to have had conversations with representatives from the Welsh Government this morning and look forward to further conversations as they review the lockdown measures weekly.”

“It is important that we all do our part to tackle the virus by respecting the new restrictions, and we all must take responsibility. We must work together to do everything we can to stop the spread of the virus, and I will continue to work closely with the police, the local authority, and colleagues in both Cardiff and Westminster.”