Khan was speaking after he declared a “major incident” in England’s capital city on Saturday due to rapidly rising case numbers.

“I think if we don’t bring in new restrictions, sooner rather than later, you’re going to see even more positive cases and potentially public services like the NHS on the verge of collapse, if not collapsing,” Khan told the BBC. “Those who work in the NHS think of GPs, A&Es in hospitals, ambulances, but also the fire service, police service, local authorities, they’re seeing record numbers of staff absences, and the worry is our ability to look after people who are either unwell or need public service. That is why we have declared the major emergency.”

The mayor of London added that any new restrictions would have to be balanced with financial support from the UK government.