Firstly my thoughts are with Boris Johnson, who at the time of writing is in intensive care. I wish him a speedy recovery at a time when the nation needs its Prime Minister. It demonstrates how all of us are potentially at risk and therefore how important it is to do our bit by staying at home – for our own protection, to protect our NHS and save the lives of others in our community.
I’d like to commend our local response. On the whole, we are following the guidance and I’ve been impressed by our collective response. Every day I am speaking to nurses, doctors, care workers, local authorities, business people and other workers from all sectors to understand the impact of this crisis – so that I can continue to ask questions and make suggestions to Government on how it can help.
I remain concerned by the failure to provide health and care workers (as well as all other frontline key workers), with adequate personal protective equipment. Likewise, the urgent need for wider testing. I fear that the Government has not got a grip of the situation. If you are a local business or organisation that can help with the production or sourcing of PPE or any other support, please get in touch.
That said, this week saw the opening of a testing centre at Coventry Hospital which is a very positive development and we will see the NEC Nightingale Hospital open by the weekend. That is very welcome and I commend the Government and authorities on this achievement.
Finally, I welcome the election of Keir Starmer as leader of the Labour Party. Keir is someone I know to be a principled and highly capable politician, who will bring the constructive but forensic opposition called for at this time.
If you wish to contact me on this issue, please check the coronavirus hub on my website first – as you are likely to find an answer there. Otherwise, I can be contacted by email at ‘[email protected]’ or you can ring my office on 01926 882006.
Matt Western
