I know that the second national lockdown was a difficult time for many of my constituents, who had to sacrifice a variety of activities that were subject to restrictions. Nobody wanted another lockdown, and none of us want any more restrictions beyond what is necessary.

I am pleased that, now the national lockdown has ended, golf courses have been allowed to reopen in all tiers, subject to the relevant restrictions. While I understand the Government’s desire to err on the side of caution during the November lockdown, it is right that people are able to play golf again, given its public health benefits and the points you make about the safety of golf courses.

This is a new and relatively poorly-understood virus, but we know that it thrives on social interaction, and it is important that the rules in place are followed, so that golfers can play as safely as possible. This includes advice against golfers living in Tier 3 travelling into a Tier 1 or 2 area to play golf.

Unfortunately, Cheadle, like all of Greater Manchester, has been placed in Tier 3 following the end of the national lockdown, and has remained there since. I oppose this and voted against it, as I believe tiers should be decided on a borough-by-borough basis, and the case rate in Stockport borough has consistently been lower than the average for Greater Manchester. Tiers will continue to be reviewed every 14 days, and I will keep advocating for our area to be moved out of Tier 3, which would allow golfers here to travel to courses in Tier 2 areas.