A DORSET business leader has expressed his views on the government's new winter Covid plan and warns residents 'we are not out of the woods yet'.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined the government's winter Covid plan in the House of Commons yesterday, which is based on two possible plans: Plan A and Plan B.

Plan A, the favoured plan, promotes vaccines and continuing testing a isolation rules and the stricter Plan B aims to prevent the NHS being overwhelmed through mandatory vaccine passports and face coverings.

Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling is urging everyone to 'play their part' to avoid the need for tougher restrictions.

He said: "Clearly we are not out of the woods yet as the Covid infection rate remains worryingly high.

"Whilst the forward guidance in the government’s winter Covid plan is welcome, there is still a great deal of uncertainty to contend with.

"The prospect of vaccine passports, mandatory mask-wearing and a return to working from home being imposed at very short notice will send shivers down the spine of some business owners and directors.

"More details about the trigger points for such measures would be useful and businesses will need as much notice, and support, as possible if any of these tougher ‘Plan B’ policies are introduced. This will be especially true if we reach the point of a full ‘firebreak’ lockdown.

"Dorset businesses have generally been very supportive of the government and appreciate the difficult juggling act it faces. I am sure they will face the autumn with their customary pragmatism and resilience.

"Ultimately, we must all play part our part to avoid the need for tougher restrictions to help our country and its economy continue on the road to recovery."