BMA Cymru say “there really is no other option” and calls on Welsh Government to introduce tougher measures over Christmas

The British Medical Association Cymru (BMA) has today called on the Welsh Government to go further with restrictions over the Christmas period amid fears of a sharp rise in cases in the new year.

Over the last 24 hours two meetings about the current Christmas plans between between December 23 and 27 have taken place following growing pressure from health professionals and opposition parties.

Speaking at today’s Welsh Government press conference First Minister Mark Drakeford issued firmer guidance on the rules saying that “in Wales, the position is that only two households should come together to form an exclusive Christmas bubble during the five-day period.”

He said: “In the few short weeks since we made this decision, the situation has changed drastically as coronavirus has gripped the UK country once again.

“Later today, we will publish joint advice across the UK, explaining that a smaller Christmas is a safer Christmas. That a shorter Christmas is a safer Christmas.

“Here in Wales, the position is that only two households should come together to form an exclusive Christmas bubble during the five-day period.

“The fewer people we mix with in our homes, the less chance we have of catching or spreading the virus.

“None of us wants to be ill this Christmas. And we don’t want to give coronavirus to our close family or friends.”

At the briefing the first minister also confirmed that Wales will be entering the toughest level of restrictions with changes coming into place on Christmas Eve when all non-essential retail, including close contact services and all leisure and fitness centres will be required to close at the end of trading.

All hospitality premises will close from 6pm on Christmas Day. On December 28, tighter restrictions for household mixing, staying-at-home, holiday accommodation and travel will apply.

Responding to the latest Welsh Government Coronavirus update, Dr David Bailey, Chair of the BMA’s Welsh Council said: “BMA Cymru Wales welcomes the announcement that Wales will be entering a level four lockdown on 28 December.

“As transmission rates continue to rise rapidly across Wales and pressure on the NHS intensifies, there really is no other option.

“Welsh Government should look again at changing the law on the number of households which are able to meet at Christmas, we fear many may disregard the advice for two households to meet, and look to do what they are legally able to.

“We cannot stress enough the pressure the NHS is currently facing – with the highest number of Covid patients in hospital in Wales so far – doctors on the frontline are exhausted, and we know the worst is yet to come.

“We must not forget the sacrifices our frontline professionals are making on a daily basis to fight this virus. Health Boards in Wales must ensure a rapid roll out of vaccinations as well as consistent mental health support for all staff during this incredibly testing time.

“We urge the public to take the risk seriously and minimise contact as much as possible this Christmas in order to protect each other and to lessen the impact on the NHS.”