I would like to provide an update to my constituents on recent coverage about Dominic Cummings, the Prime Minister’s senior adviser.
During the Covid-19 lockdown people in West Norfolk have made huge sacrifices whether by self-isolating, being unable to see families, or many other restrictions. As a nurse for so many years, you will share with particular force of feeling our sincere, collective appreciation for the hard work of key workers at this very difficult time
In this crisis constituents have often asked me for my views on how to approach personal situations and I have advised them to follow the rules and use their judgement where there is discretion.
Like many people, I was very concerned at reports about Dominic Cummings’ actions during lockdown when so many people in West Norfolk have been making these incredible sacrifices. I entirely accept that a perception that a set of rules doesn’t apply to everyone is damaging.
Before commenting I wanted to hear the facts and there is no doubt answers should have come much faster after the initial reports. My approach as a MP on this, as other issues, is to listen to constituents, think about the matter, and then reach a judgement.
I listened to Mr Cummings statement explaining in detail what he did and his reasoning for the decisions he made. Having heard his account, read constituents’ emails, and reflected on the rules, my view is that it was a frank statement about decisions motivated by a desire to protect his young son and his actions were understandable.
Many people who have contacted me disagree. I understand the depth of anger and unhappiness this has caused and I have communicated the strength of these views to the government.
Durham Police has now concluded its investigation and confirmed that driving to self-isolate in Durham was not a breach of the rules. Although they said “there might have been” a minor breach of regulations in a journey he took while there the Police will take no action in this matter.
As we start to slowly leave lockdown the government’s energy needs to focus on the Covid-19 crisis response. I will continue to champion West Norfolk in Westminster for the recovery of our economy and helping businesses particularly in our tourism, hospitality, and leisure sectors to re-open once it is safe to do so.
It is thanks to the sacrifices of the people of West Norfolk to fight this terrible virus that we can now ease restrictions while continuing to keep the R rate under control with the new test and trace system.
