Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 1st September 2021) below:
Afghanistan
My ministerial role at the Home Office means much of the last fortnight has been spent dealing with and reacting to the developing events in Afghanistan.
All the way through the recent evacuation operation it was quite something to see how our military units were working to save lives. During daily briefings for ministers, senior commanders would outline the challenges and set out the choices needing to be made, whilst also outlining positive moments during the inevitable difficulties being faced. Our troops and wider team on the ground in Kabul showed professionalism, courage and resourcefulness we can all be proud of as a nation.
There are no easy options or solutions and throughout the recent operation it was clear there would be a limit to how many we could evacuate, not least given the Taliban controlled the routes to the airport and the threat of an attack on UK/US Forces, with the US President setting a firm deadline for withdrawal. One of the hardest parts was not just discussing who was on the list to be evacuated, but the order in which they would be brought out, knowing we would not be able to get everyone out.
I appreciate the many residents who have been in touch offering their thoughts on the situation and potentially offering to help those evacuated. These offers becoming even more important as the focus must now shift from flights out of Kabul to ensuring those who have been evacuated can be supported to resettle across the UK and find employment, including here in Torbay.
Enhanced Covid Support
Last week the Government announced additional support for Devon and Cornwall in response to our high level of COVID-19 cases.
Thankfully the large take up rates for vaccination across our region is lessening the impact, with the highest rates of infection amongst teens and those in their 20s, who are less likely to have been double vaccinated. Those in this age group are also more likely to work in jobs which include direct interaction with customers.
For a five-week period, Devon and Cornwall (Including Torbay) will be an Enhanced Response Area. This means the government has prioritised our region for additional support to reduce case rates. It does not mean a local lockdown.
These measures are a proportionate response to the current case rates, balancing tackling the pandemic by reinforcing key messages, with ensuring we can still enjoy summer in our bay. A good example is whilst it is no longer a Police matter if someone is not wearing a face covering in a shop or on the bus, it is something we can all do to help.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on Saturday 4th September, 10:00am till 12:00pm at St Martin’s Church, Barton Hill Road, TQ2 8JA and Friday 10th September, 3pm till 5pm at Paignton Baptist Church, 43 Winner Street, TQ3 3BN. Sadly, my surgeries must remain appointment only at this stage given the prevailing public health guidance.
For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989. You can also drop into my office at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD between 10am & 1pm Monday to Friday, please note you may have to wait outside if others attend at the same time.
