Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has hit out over “uncertainty” regarding further coronavirus restrictions in Greater Manchester.
The Cabinet minister told Sky News: “I think the discussions have been productive but they have probably gone on too long now. We need to reach an agreement with local leaders.
“I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement, but we do need to conclude this now.
“There has been a sense of uncertainty, which isn’t helpful to people living in Greater Manchester.
“More importantly, the number of cases is rising and the pressure on some of the hospitals in Greater Manchester is there for all to see.
“So, I think further measures and action now is important.”
Mr Jenrick said: “We are going to be having further discussions today with the council leaders from across Greater Manchester and I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement.
“The contours of an agreement are there.
“But, as I say, every side needs to now come together and reach an amicable conclusion for the sake of people in Greater Manchester.”
Asked if he had offered Manchester a bigger financial settlement, Mr Jenrick said: “I have offered, in discussions that we have had, a range of different things that local leaders would like.
“Whether that’s greater control over local tracing, whether it is use of the armed forces, whether it is more resources for local councils.
“We want to put together a package of measures that will actually work.”
Mr Jenrick said: “I do think it is very clear that having now discussed this for well over a week this does now need to be brought to a conclusion.
“I think everybody in Greater Manchester would agree with that.
“So, I am hopeful that either today, or tomorrow, we will reach a conclusion, one way or the other.”
