Some thoughts on the debate over the UK Xmas rona regulations. First of all, public opinion is ostensibly against relaxation, which gives the government some wriggle room. 57% say the tier system should remain in place over the festive period. Interesting. 1/8
2/8 I suspect this is the politically correct answer to pollsters and that a proportion of people who oppose the non-disty Christy *would* meet up with people outside their bubble if the government continues to say that it is ok. But they kind of hope they'll be *told* it's not.
3/8 Here's the thing. These decisions are actually very difficult. My father is 84, has advanced Parkinson's. My father-in-law is 88, profoundly deaf, and on his own. I don't want them put at risk, but I don't want them isolated at Christmas.
4/8 Many people will be involved in fairly agonised discussions. Old and vulnerable folk who are reticent about meeting. Families unsure how far to push them. Old and vulnerable people who are keen. Families not sure how to tell them no.
5/8 So the attitude of the government here is critical. It gives people permission to hold the Christmas celebrations. But just as importantly, it gives people permission *not* to go ahead.
6/8 I think the big problem with changing direction now that it is another example of the goalposts moving from week to week. People are pretty sick of that. Also, many will have made plans involving travel. Perhaps committed cash to the celebrations.
7/8 I got the impression from the get-go that Scotland and Wales went into the Xmas relaxations somewhat reluctantly. You could read that from the awkward pronouncements and body language of Sturgeon and Drakeford. Boris and Arlene keener.
8/8 At least, however, there was some superficial agreement in a pandemic which has constantly divided the nations of the UK. Are we going to see that unanimity evaporate before the Yuletide turkey is even on the table?
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