Covid-19 Local Discussions 2020-11-12
2020-11-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from discussions on how local leaders are engaging with the government to manage and respond to the ongoing pandemic.
What recent discussions have the Government had with local leaders on tackling the covid-19 outbreak?
At every stage of the pandemic, the UK Government have engaged with the devolved Administrations, metro mayors and local councils. Local resilience forums are at the frontline of providing the response to tackling covid-19, and the Government will continue to engage with local authorities to beat the virus.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question comes from concerns about the basis of York's restrictions being lifted, specifically whether they will be determined by local figures or wider regional decisions.
With covid cases in York now well below the level they were when the city went into tier 2, can the Minister reassure me that the Government are listening closely to the feedback and case numbers they are receiving from the city authorities, and that York's restrictions from 2 December will be based on the local virus situation and local judgments?
First of all, let me acknowledge the immense sacrifices that people in York and elsewhere around the country are making, and what people are having to endure. As the Prime Minister has made clear, the current restrictions will end on 2 December, and we will then return to a local and tiered approach. The Government will work with my hon. Friend and other local leaders in the area to determine the most appropriate response.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specifically addressing York's future restrictions based on local data is not fully addressed.
Working With
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question relates to the commendation for local agency working during the pandemic and seeks a commitment from the government to understand ongoing pressures, especially those related to children's services.
Will my right hon. Friend join me in commending the strong local agency working and local resilience forums, such as our own in Hampshire? Will the Government commit to working with local areas to really understand the pressures that, sadly, will persist even after this time?
I am very pleased to join my right hon. Friend in sending thanks to Hampshire LRF and all the LRFs around the country, which are doing an incredible job in such difficult circumstances. We very much understand that they are in the frontline of this fight, and communications with them and with local authorities are vital.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Commitment to understanding ongoing pressures on children's services is not fully addressed.
Understanding Very Well
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from the need for local businesses to plan ahead based on government discussions about an exit strategy from lockdown.
Will my right hon. Friend let us know what Government discussions are taking place about an exit strategy for lockdown, so that local businesses such as pubs and close contact businesses such as Skinderella in Broxtowe can plan ahead?
I thank my hon. Friend for the work that he has done in recent weeks to stand up for individuals and businesses in his constituency. The Government do listen to all representations that are made, as we have seen in recent weeks—for example, over takeaway beer.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Details of government discussions on an exit strategy from lockdown are not fully provided.
Listening To
Response accuracy