The Isle of Wight's MP says he will vote in favour of the Government's tier system - and is urging Islanders to support local businesses if plans go through as expected.
MPs are expected to back the Government proposals to tackle coronavirus regionally, despite opposition from some Tory backbenchers.
Labour has said it will abstain from the vote, which takes place this evening (Tuesday).
As Isle of Wight Radio previously reported, the plans would see the Isle of Wight placed into the lowest level, Tier 1.
Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely says he will back the vote:
"Since I, and others, specifically requested that Ministers judged the Island on its own merits and did not include it in a wider region - as was a possibility - I feel therefore I needed to recognise that and to thank Ministers for their correct decision.
“More widely, I have made my views very clear and these have not changed. I have been concerned about the use of data. I have been concerned about the lack of data showing the medium and long-term effects on health and on peoples’ jobs and livelihoods. I have been concerned about how public health officials
Mr Seely says he is now urging Islanders to do "three things".
"First, for us to minimise the bad economic impact on the Island caused by restrictions and lockdowns, can we please wherever possible shop in Island-own businesses and buy Island goods and produce. We have at least 50 Island food producers. They produce some of the best food and drink in the country. In the run-up to Christmas, let’s be spending our money with them. We know that shopping local keeps money and jobs on the Island, so let’s help each other.
"Second, let's also get out to help our pubs and restaurants.
“Third, let’s keep an eye out for each other. Lockdowns have had a significant mental health impact and loneliness - which can cause ill-health - has been rising due to the lack of human contact.
“Ministers have listened. We will be in Tier 1. I hope now that we can get back to some semblance of normality. I am assured the vaccine roll-out will start soon. Frankly, it can’t come too soon.”
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