Leaders of West Yorkshire councils meet government to discuss next steps after rise in coronavirus infections

The leaders of the councils across West Yorkshire met with senior government ministers and the Deputy Chief Medical Officer today to discuss the next steps in tackling the virus.

They said the latest data on infections and hospital admissions "shows a continued rise".

The leaders 'repeated' calls to government that further local action "needs to be taken" - including strengthening community engagement and test and trace.

Further discussions will follow with government in the coming days, the leaders said.

The coronavirus rate in Leeds is currently 415.1 per 100,000 residents.

The leaders of West Yorkshire Councils have issued the following statement: “Today we were invited to a meeting with senior government ministers and the Deputy Chief Medical Officer to discuss the next steps in combatting COVID-19 in West Yorkshire.

"The latest data on infections and hospital admissions shows a continued rise, and we have repeated our calls to Government that further local action needs to be taken, including strengthening community engagement and test and trace.

"There will be further discussions with government in the coming days.

"We are absolutely committed to implementing the most effective measures to protect the people and economy of West Yorkshire.”