LOCAL authorities across Greater Birmingham, including Solihull, will stay at Tier 3, health secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed.
Only Bristol and North Somerset (Tier 3 to 2) and Herefordshire (Tier 2 to 1) will have their levels reduced.
Areas in the south east and east had their ratings increased.
Under Tier 3 restrictions, indoor entertainment, hotels (with limited exemptions) and hospitality businesses must remain closes, only operating takeaway, delivery and drive-through services.
The next review will take place on December 30 with the announcement expected the day after.
Business leaders are urging the Government to find solutions to enabling businesses reopen safely and #BackOurBusinesses with a realistic level of support.
Henrietta Brealey director of policy and strategic relationships, the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce said: “While the news is not unexpected, it will way heavy on the hospitality, visitor economy, accommodation and events businesses in our region – and the many thousands more that supply them.
“We are deeply concerned that the so called ‘Christmas rules’ will lead to a spike in cases in the new year and a continuation or even enhancement of these measures.
“The latest round of government support is spectacularly inadequate for many of our independent businesses, not even covering the rent.
“Furlough won’t protect jobs if their employer goes out of business. Bounce Back and Coronavirus Business Interruption loans will cost the government more if the company fails and cannot repay it than if the business is just supported through this time.
“We are urging the government to #BackOurBusinesses, use the c.£2bn in Covid-19 reliefs being returned by major high street retailers to increase the support available for impacted businesses and take action across key policy areas – and do it urgently.”
