Response to Prime Minister’s statement on Coronavirus Response

  

Responding to the Prime Minister’s speech this evening (10 May), I wrote, along with Cllr Stuart Currie, SNP Group Leader for East Lothian Council that:

“As representatives for East Lothian, we welcome Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s statement this evening, following the lead of devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in confirming that the lockdown will continue with some small changes, such as increased freedom to exercise outdoors while maintaining social distancing. This is essential to ensure the continued reduction in transmission of the virus and lower the eventual death rate. It was disappointing that the UK Government created needless uncertainty with earlier posturing. At a time of great uncertainty, people deserve clarity.

“We call on the Prime Minister and the Government to work much more closely with the devolved nations. Any future announcements must take into account the specific needs of each nation, and ensure that there is consistent messaging between Governments where appropriate, and clarity over differences in policy between Governments where they exist.

“We want to assure our constituents that we are still available to help with any questions you may have. The Scottish Government have been very clear today: the guidance for Scotland is to continue to Stay At Home, to protect the NHS and save lives.”