BLACKBURN’S MP has said she is “strongly” opposed to changes to coronavirus restrictions in her constituency, which she has described as “lockdown-lite”.

Kate Hollern Tweeted a statement on Tuesday morning, after new Government guidance was unearthed on Monday.

Despite never making an announcement about new travel guidance in Blackburn with Darwen, Bolton, Burnley and other areas, information about the changes has been available on the Government’s website since Friday.

The Labour MP tweeted: “On Friday night the Government rolled out lockdown-lite through the back door. The guidance is likely to have major implications on businesses, schools and the hospitality sector and I’m furious that the Government hasn’t bothered to consult the local authorities involved.

“I strongly oppose the Government’s attempt to introduce new measures by stealth and without consultation. Instead, the Government needs to continue to ensure it gets vaccines to where they’re needed the most.

“The Government also needs to immediately explain why it has issued new guidance and publish the risk assessment it carried out so that those areas affected can understand the impact the new guidance will have.

“If the Government continues on this path, it must be ready to provide whatever financial support necessary. That means support for Blackburn’s businesses, self-isolation support that matches furlough and support for schools.”

Earlier this morning, Professor Dominic Harrison, director of public health for Blackburn with Darwen, said he had not been made aware of the updated guidance advising against all but essential travel in the area.

He tweeted: “#localgov areas involved were not consulted with, warned of, notified about, or alerted to this guidance. I have asked to see the national risk assessment which supports this action – it has not been provided to us yet.”