UK ministers were warned local lockdowns could fuel racial tensions

Government accused of being ‘tone deaf’ for imposing restrictions in the north of England despite warnings

The government has been accused of being “tone deaf” for its sudden introduction of further lockdown restrictions in the north of England last month shortly after being warned that local interventions could fuel racial tensions.

Documents released by the government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) warned that in areas with vulnerable or marginalised communities local interventions could make people feel stigmatised, damage trust in government and lead to social unrest.

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