The Liberal Democrats are calling for a faster rollout of vaccines after news that the R-rate has risen between 1 and 1.4.
Munira Wilson, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, welcomed the decision to test travellers for coronavirus at UK borders but said these restrictions should have been implemented months ago.
Munira Wilson said: “The numbers released today make it increasingly clear that the Government needs to roll out the vaccine as quickly and safely as possible.
“Infections are increasing at a terrifying rate and hospitals are close to being overwhelmed. Boris Johnson must deliver on his promises if we are to save lives and protect the NHS.
“Even after many millions of people have received their jab, fixing the Government’s test and trace system will still be key if we are to avoid outbreaks across the country. Although testing at UK borders has finally been announced by the Government, it is long overdue.
“Test and Trace is still failing to contact those with a positive test, over 37,000 in the last week of the year were not reached.
“The Government must put in place proper support, guaranteeing full salary for those self-isolating, and fixing its test and trace system to slow the spread of the virus.
“The Liberal Democrats believe that to ensure the success of the vaccine roll out, the Government must work with the NHS, the military, local government, the private sector, thousands of volunteers and community pharmacies. We need vaccinations to be taking place on every high street in the country on a 24/7 basis.”