(Bloomberg) -- The Spanish government recommended that the region of Madrid extend restrictions on movement to the entire city, putting pressure on local authorities to act.
The proposal is part of a standoff with local officials, who have direct responsibility over health policy. Madrid is controlled by the biggest opposition party to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's coalition.
It is the regional government's prerogative to decide what to do, Health Minister Salvador Illa said today in a press conference held at the same time as a separate briefing by regional authorities.
“We need to act with determination and, in few words, try to take control,” Illa said. “The responsibility at this time to take measures is of the government of Madrid.”
Madrid's government effectively dismissed the central government's request. Instead, it announced it was limiting movement in eight new areas, adding to 37 that had been hit by restrictions last week.
The recommendations come as Madrid struggles to control a surge in infections and hospitalizations that is putting a strain on intensive care units.
There has not been any big changes between Monday and Friday to justify the Spanish government's recommendations, the regional health chief Antonio Zapatero said.
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