Covid-19: Economic Impact of Lockdowns — [Mrs Sheryll Murray in the Chair]

The MP highlighted the deep financial and economic impact of the pandemic, citing delays in lockdown measures and inadequate support for businesses. She criticized the government's decision-making process, including mixed messaging and indecision during critical times. The MP also emphasized the disparity between the hardships faced by the general public and the activities within Downing Street, referencing a £230 million contract given to PPE Medpro through a VIP fast lane referral. Furthermore, she noted that many businesses suffered due to lack of clear communication and decisive action from the government.

The MP expressed concern that Parliament was not given the opportunity to debate the impact of lockdowns on constituents during certain phases of the pandemic. The MP reiterated concern over the lasting economic impacts of the pandemic, noting that not all aspects of British life have returned to normal despite appearances. Chris Green expressed concern that the Government's approach to lockdown measures, such as the curfew, lacked scientific basis. He questioned whether the precautionary principle was used more to protect the government from blame rather than to genuinely safeguard people's health. Mr Green highlighted the four categories of concerns during the lockdown period: civil liberties, educational exclusion, wider health impacts, and economic repercussions. He mentioned specific issues such as drone surveillance in Derbyshire and a significant decline in GP-to-hospital referrals in Bolton borough. Mr Green also emphasised the long-term impact on children from poorer backgrounds due to prolonged school closures. Chris Green acknowledged the argument being made by another member, highlighting that people in Britain were already voluntarily reducing their activities due to observations from China and Italy.

The hon. Member criticised the government for not following scientific advice during the pandemic, highlighting issues such as delayed reopening of schools despite low risks to children and inconsistent application of lockdown measures based on personal relationships rather than data. He also mentioned the wastage in funding from initiatives like Test and Trace, which negatively impacted the economy and the NHS's capacity to provide routine care.

Does my right hon. Friend accept that in Northern Ireland, the impact has been even greater? In a population of less than 1.9 million people, about 400,000 people are on waiting lists. The cancer waiting list and undiagnosed cancers are at an all-time high. Voted against the Government's proposals during the pandemic and criticises those who supported all restrictions for complicity in driving a one-directional course of action without exploring alternative measures.

I am concerned about the impact of lockdown restrictions on small businesses in North East Bedfordshire. I have received numerous letters and emails from constituents who are struggling to keep their doors open.

The MP highlighted the severe economic pressure faced by pubs and restaurants in his constituency due to increased energy prices, noting that a large country house's weekly energy bill had risen from £16,000 to £60,000.

The MP questioned the notion of populism influencing the decision-making process for lockdowns, arguing that they were not popular but rather tolerated during the pandemic. She acknowledged the economic consequences of lockdown, noting a 9.7% decline in GDP in 2020, the steepest drop since records began in 1948. Gibson highlighted that Scotland's economy contracted by 19.4% between April and June 2020, the largest fall on record. She emphasized the importance of following scientific advice and cited research suggesting that a week earlier implementation of lockdown could have saved around 20,000 lives according to Imperial College London. Gibson also discussed personal experiences during lockdown, such as the impact on her mother-in-law with dementia.

The economic impact of lockdowns has been devastating for the hospitality industry, with many businesses facing closure. I urge the Government to extend support measures for these sectors.

The MP discussed Lord Sumption's view on the impact of fear and lack of media scrutiny on public perception during lockdowns, suggesting it discouraged alternative viewpoints. Mr Wilson expressed concerns about the economic consequences of lockdown measures, citing significant borrowing and the closure of businesses. He highlighted issues such as excess deaths, the impact on education, and the long-term effects on the least well-off in society.

The MP supports the need for open debate and questions whether the decision to lock down was questioned or challenged by Members of Parliament.

The MP called for reform of business rates and investment in high streets to support small businesses affected by the pandemic, advocating for measures to help them compete with online giants.