Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 1st April 2020) below:
Coronavirus
The last two weeks have been the most extraordinary of my lifetime.
I joined an estimated 28 million people who watched the Prime Minister’s address to the nation. His speech confirming the implementation of restrictions on life here in the bay which can only be compared to those which existed during World War 2 when our beaches became potential landing grounds for an armed invasion.
The threat we face today may not be visible, but it could be equally as deadly, hence the Emergency Powers which have been implemented with the support of all the main opposition parties. I hope Herald Express readers will see both the urgent need for these restrictions and be understanding if stopped by the Police to be questioned on your reasons for being out and about.
The actions we take today will determine what position our bay faces in 2 to 3 weeks’ time. There are difficult days ahead, no-one can hide that, but if we all do our bit we will save lives.
Journey Home
Coming home to our bay felt strange, a deserted Paddington Station, Police Officers questioning the handful of travellers as to the purpose of our journeys and then empty streets as I walked home from Torre Station.
Yet these strange scenes were also reassuring as they are signs most people are heeding the advice to Stay Home, Protect the NHS & Save Lives. The more we follow the guidance now, the sooner we can get back to being the bustling and vibrant community we want to be.
Windrush Bill
Whilst last week was dominated by debates on Emergency Legislation relating to tackling the Coronavirus outbreak this was not the only issue before MPs.
On Tuesday I lead the debate on a bill giving parliamentary authority to payments from the Windrush Compensation Scheme.
The Windrush Scandal emerged two years ago yet had been decades in the making. The recent Lessons Learned Review highlighted on its first page the case of a man who left for a short holiday in 2001 but was never allowed to come home.
The debate saw several issues raised by the opposition, with some constructive thoughts and suggestions put forward. Ultimately the bill passed without a vote in a sign of solidarity with those who were affected so badly.
Clap For Our Carers
It was great to hear the normal noise of traffic replaced by the sound of cheering and applause on Thursday night.
Our NHS and Social Care teams are working hard to save lives, the applause was a great way to say thank you, as is following their advice to stay home.
Surgery Times
Based on current advice relating to the Coronavirus I have cancelled my regular advice surgeries and drop-in sessions at my East St Office until further notice.
I hope to restart them as soon as possible, but in the meantime a telephone call surgery appointment can be arranged. Please note due to the current level of demand these telephone surgeries are for urgent personal matters, such as welfare, immigration, problems accessing support and benefits, rather than to discuss policy or the wider situation nationally.
You can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989 and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.
