The Health Secretary has 'praised the people of Nottinghamshire' for efforts to slow the spread of Covid-19, as cases increase across the county.
Speaking in the House of Commons following an earlier press briefing by the Boris Johnson on Tuesday, October 20, Mr Hancock discussed moving Greater Manchester into Tier 3 before taking questions from fellow MPs.
Following a question from Conservative MP for Gedling borough, Tom Randall, where cases are rising, Mr Hancock reiterated the Prime Minister's earlier words that "talks are ongoing" regarding Nottinghamshire's restriction level.
He admitted that more may be needed in the county, but that it would 'driven by data' and by working with local authorities.
Mr Randall said: "In Gedling...there continues to be a worry on the number of coronavirus cases.
"It's concerning to hear that the general picture appears to be moving upwards on the population particularly amongst the over-60s where I know the risks are higher.
"Does my honourable friend agree with me that this demonstrates the importance of acting fast with the action that is available to help save lives?"
Mr Hancock replied: "Yes I strongly agree and I praise my honourable friend's leadership in his local community in making this case - and the number of cases in Nottingham and increasingly across Nottinghamshire are worrying.
"Nottinghamshire went into [Tier] 2 last week and talks are ongoing about what more might be needed.
"And I praise the people of Nottinghamshire for what they're doing to try to slow the spread of this virus.
"It may be that more needs to be done, it will be driven entirely by the data and working closely with the local authorities."
