News from Westminster
Parliament has now re-started following the summer recess, so as before, I will be spending most of my week in London. As MPs return to Westminster, and more people return to working in offices, I have re-opened my London and constituency offices. My staff will still be doing some work from home to ensure social distancing, so please do email rather than phone if you need to get in touch.
It’s great to see pupils in Dorset and Poole returning to school, and I know that local schools and teachers have worked hard to put procedures in place to keep everyone safe. Over the summer I was in contact with many of the local headteachers, as well as ministers within the Department for Education. In my opinion, it is vital that schools are kept open, so that our children and young people receive both education, and the chance to socialise with their peers. This year has been very difficult for many people, but we must not forget that this virus is very unlikely to significantly affect people under 18.
As I write, the Prime Minister has just announced the rule of six – that for social meetings, groups must be kept to a maximum of six people. I know this is challenging, and none of us like being told how to live our lives. But we must try and ensure that the transmission of the virus is reduced. There are exemptions of course, with detailed guidance available online for workplaces, youth groups, places of worship and others. You can find this at https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
In the constituency I recently visited local farmers during Love Lamb week, to hear about the issues and opportunities in British farming at the moment. I have also visited wedding venues, and talked to people in the arts and entertainment industry. They have all shared with me the many challenges facing their particular industries during the Corona crisis. It’s incredibly helpful to hear from constituents, and to be able to then speak directly to government ministers about where the government can help. If you run a business, and would like me to visit, please do get in touch with my office.
The government is consulting on possible changes to the planning system. I have had several meetings with individuals and community groups about this, and I encourage people to read the possible changes and contribute to the consultation. You can find details of how to contribute on my website www.michaeltomlinson.org.uk/public-consultations
Please do get in touch if you help or support. You can contact me via email [email protected] or call my office on 01202 624216. I send out a regular email update – you can sign up on my website www.michaeltomlinson.org.uk where you can also find links to the latest coronavirus advice.
