THE leader of Brighton and Hove City Council says "difficult decisions need to be made" to protect jobs and keep residents safe.

Councillor Phelim Mac Cafferty (below) made the statement after director of public health Alistair Hill warned that "rates of Covid-19 are too high in the city right now".

The Green councillor said the city is currently "in constant dialogue with all the government, health agencies and partners to make sure we do the right thing at the right time for everyone in our city".

There were 442 confirmed coronavirus cases reported in the seven days leading up to October 23 - the most recent figures used by the council.

This means that Brighton and Hove has a rate of 152 cases per 100,000 people.

The Argus:

Cllr Mac Cafferty said: "Brighton Hove is a united and caring city. We come together in times of crisis as well as celebration.

"Our residents, local businesses and partners have all done so much already to protect our community throughout this pandemic and we thank you all.

"The city is in constant dialogue with all the government, health agencies and partners to make sure we do the right thing at the right time for everyone in our city.

"Difficult decisions need to be made to protect jobs and businesses as well as keeping our residents safe and healthy.

"The council and its partners have the right team of experienced, committed and caring people in place to steer us through this.

"We all need to play our part to stop the disease, protect people's health and lives .

The Argus:

"Wear your face covering at all times when out and about. Limit how many people you see. Maintain social distancing. Keep to the rule of six."

Mr Hill (below) said these action was needed to slow the spread of coronavirus in Brighton and Hove.

He said: "We know it can be difficult to self-isolate if you have symptoms, had a positive test result or have been told you are a close contact of a case.

The Argus:

"But support is available through the council’s Community Hub for everyone who needs it.

"Anyone who has been asked to isolate due to having or being in contact with someone who has Covid absolutely must stay home to avoid infecting other people with the virus.

"This is not a time for any of us to take risks with our own or other people’s health."