Since last Thursday, we’ve been under new national restrictions.
After speaking to local NHS leaders to get the latest information and having assessed the additional support in place for individuals and businesses, I reluctantly supported these measures put forward by the government.
Infections have risen across the country, including here in the South West and worryingly, across all age groups. Hospital admissions have increased at the RD&E. We are not immune from deaths in our hospitals and within our communities.
None of us want these restrictions. I certainly don’t and fully understand the impact they will have on jobs, businesses and mental health.
However, we can’t risk overwhelming the NHS and that is a real concern according to local NHS leaders. We must ensure our local NHS – GP and hospital services – continue to have capacity to treat people with non-Covid conditions.
The government has ramped up financial support across the board. Furlough is extended to the end of March and the self-employed grant has increased to 80%. Every business forced to close will receive grants of up to £3,000 to help them through this difficult period.
I will work tirelessly to help anyone who appears to fall through the gaps and urge constituents to get in touch. I promise to explore every avenue to help.
These new national measures are time limited. They began on 5th November 2020 and will expire on 2nd December 2020. I have pushed the Prime Minister for these rules to face a vote in Parliament before they can be renewed. I will carefully consider where we are at that time. I rule nothing out when it comes to that vote.
We should be incredibly proud of the quick and compassionate response by businesses and support groups across East Devon. Whether you are in Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, Exmouth, Cranbrook, Topsham, Ottery St Mary or Broadclyst, support is available to help you from your community. You can find further details at www.simonjupp.org.uk
We must continue to live life as safely as we can and keep up the great work locally to supress the virus.
This column first appeared in the Exmouth Journal on Wednesday 11th November, Sidmouth Herald on Thursday 12th November and Midweek Herald on Friday 13th November 2020.