Reading East MP Matt Rodda looks, this week, at the importance of finding a general consensus on easing lockdown measures. He writes;

The coronavirus crisis is continuing to take a heavy toll and I want to take this opportunity to say how proud I am of our community for supporting one another during this difficult time.

NHS and care staff, key workers and others, have all gone far beyond what would normally be expected of them, to save lives and to keep the country running. They have been supported by volunteers and the community as a whole, which has gone to great lengths to practice social distancing.

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I have found it quite moving to see the wonderful displays of support, particularly the many rainbows and hand-painted signs in windows.

This community spirit is so important in a crisis and I want to thank everyone for their support for one another.

As the lockdown is eased, we need a plan to get the country back to work safely.

The recent announcement by the Government didn’t really give enough time for employers to plan a safe return to work. Unfortunately, the same approach is now being demonstrated by the lack of a clear plan about how schools should reopen.

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I hope that the government will learn from this, change tack and take on board the very reasonable points made by employers, unions, parents, teachers and others, and that it will do much more to try to maintain a consensus about the easing of restrictions.

It is also important that ministers listen to the concerns from across the country about the economic and social impact of the virus.

I called for action to support businesses, workers and self-employed people and I am pleased that the government listened to concerns and that the schemes were extended under pressure from Labour.

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However, we now need continued support and a comprehensive plan to save jobs and businesses over the coming months.

There also needs to be more understanding of the social impact of the crisis, such as the isolation faced by many. Additional support needs to be offered and I hope more will be done to address this important issue and other related problems.