Well what a week that was! Like just about everyone I have been on lockdown this week. Normally we would have been just entering recess and it would have been a fabulous opportunity to get out and about and meet people.

Not this time! In the last few days of Parliament sitting we had the almost unique situation of the Whips telling us to stay out of the Chamber, they are normally doing quite the reverse. My local team continue to work from home as we were unable to enter our new office before the lockdown. So for a couple of days I was in London working from my office, there and available in case any votes took place but unable to enter the Chamber. Legislation was expedited at pace and we were able to leave last Tuesday.

Some of the contents of the legislation passed has been extraordinary, not just in terms of the money that the Government has released to try and help as many people as possible but also in terms of civil liberties. We have all seen the “Police State” accusations from people and whilst we may see examples of over zealous enforcement on the news they have to be considered in context and from the discussions I have had with our local Police I am very confident that their efforts will be proportionate. Once this is over though it is particularly important that we role back these powers and head back to normality.

For now though we all need to follow the advice given and stay at home and protect our NHS.

There are huge efforts being made to increase testing and the availability of PPE whilst also increasing the capacity of the health service but I can assure you that along with all MP’s I am pushing for it to be achieved faster.

The response of people in staying home has been fantastic, but we need this to continue for a while yet. Can I also remind you of the earlier message to regularly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. The reason for this is the virus does not pass through your skin but if it gets on your hands then when you touch your face it can infect you.

Durham County Council has established help lines for you if required which are 03000 260 260 and email help@durham.gov.uk or via their website at www.durham.gov.uk/covid19help or you can contact us at Paul.Howell.MP@Parliament.uk.

Please Stay Safe, Stay at Home and look after your neighbours

Paul Howell MP

Member of Parliament

for Sedgefield