Rutland MP Alicia Kearns has welcomed that expectant mothers will be prioritised for a roll-out of 15-minute COVID tests to ensure that they can have a partner by their side for support, and that children under school age will be exempted from the 2 person outdoor meeting rule.

The mum of a one, who is expecting a second child in the New Year, has lobbied hard for these changes, gaining the support of more than 60 MPs and the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

Over the past few months, Ms Kearns has led an extensive campaign to ensure all NHS Trusts adopt the Government's guidance and allow expectant mothers to have a partner or family member present for scans and labour.

This includes pushing the Government to prioritise maternity units in the roll out of the new 15-minute COVID tests, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed would be published in NHS guidance this week.

The Rutland and Melton MP has also been urging her Ministerial colleagues to allow two new mums or dads to meet together by exempting children under school age from the two person outdoor meeting rule.

On Sunday Health Minister Nadine Dorries confirmed on twitter that "Children under school age who are with their parents will not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside. This will mean that a parent can see a friend or family member with their baby or young children."

Children and adults who are dependent on round-the-clock care, such as those with disabilities, will also be included and the guidance will be updated to reflect these changes.

Ms Kearns said: "As we approach a lockdown it's vital that we support new mums and dads and I am utterly delighted that I have been victorious in my campaigns.

"The 15-minute COVID tests that I worked to secure for maternity units are a silver bullet as we see rising cases of COVID-19. They will not only help keep clinicians and parents safe but ensure more women are supported during all stages of labour, leading to better clinical outcomes for mum and baby.

"The exclusion of young children from the new outdoor meeting rules I've secured will go a long way to counter the loneliness that many new parents feel and improve their mental health."

The 15-minute tests will also be rolled out for cancer, end of life, and paediatric settings to ensure families can support their loved ones, and in care homes.

The Rutland MP adds she continues to urge NHS Trusts to update their policies in line with Government guidance so all women can have a loved one present for support at scans and all stages of labour.