MP LUKE Hall has said the governments suggestion to not introduce any further restrictions in 2021 is to strike a balance between protecting public health and protecting the economy.

The MP for Yate and Thornbury said: “It’s right the Government hasn’t introduced further restrictions before the new year. This is the right balance between protecting public health and our local economy and jobs, especially in local hospitality businesses."

However, revellers are being urged by Mr Hall and Prime Minister Boris Johnson to err on the edge of caution and take a lateral flow test for coronavirus before New Years Eve celebrations, though many are struggling with ordering the tests online.

Mr Hall added: It’s important that our whole community continues to take the situation seriousIy and show caution when celebrating with friends and loved ones. Take a lateral flow before you go.”

While visiting a vaccination clinic in Milton Keynes on Wednesday, Mr Johnson told reporters: “I think everybody should enjoy New Year but in a cautious and sensible way.

“Take a test, ventilation, think about others – but, above all, get a booster.”

But pharmacies have warned of “huge” problems with lateral flow deliveries and PCRs are not available to order online for most of the UK.

Up until December 23, Covid cases in Thornbury’s two areas have risen in with one area now higher than the England average. The current case rate in Thornbury South is at 736 and in Thornbury North it is 1078, according to government data, calculated per 100,000 people.

Almost 90 per cent of Thornbury North and South have received their first dose of the Covid vaccine.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged revellers to take a coronavirus test ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations but many people cannot access one amid supply issues.

Nearly 900,000 test kits are being provided per day according to the UK Health Security Agency

The UKHSA has said tests may be temporarily unavailable on the Government website at points throughout the day due to “exceptionally high demand” and urged people not to order more tests before using the ones they have.