Last week, the benefits from the unprecedented package of support rolled out by the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, were set out in full. The furlough and self-employment schemes have been a lifeline for millions of people and businesses across the country, including here in the Forest of Dean.   

Last night, Parliament once again endorsed the Regulations meaning that, in light of the current Coronavirus pandemic, gatherings of more than six people outdoors remain illegal.

Thanks to the resolve of our UK negotiation team, led by Michael Gove and our Chief Negotiator David Frost, the transition period with the EU will end on 31 December this year, as we promised during the General Election.

Testing forms a key part of the Government’s strategy to enable life to return to something approaching normal whilst keeping coronavirus under control.

TOP-UP GRANT SCHEME – APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON SUNDAY

Sunday is the deadline for businesses across the Forest of Dean to apply for grants from the Local Authority Discretionary Fund.

Last week saw a gradual, phased return to the workplace for me and my office in Cinderford, as was the case with many workplaces across the country.   

Last night, I spoke during the debate on Parliament continuing to operate during Covid-19.

On Friday, I visited our local Covid-19 testing site in Gloucester.

It was impressive to see the professionalism of the operation overseen by the Royal Welsh in partnership with Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, Gloucestershire Constabulary, the County Council and the NHS.

Earlier today, ‪as Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Learning Disability, I asked Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch to investigate with Health Ministers about how working age adults with learning disabilities in the care sector can access Covid-19 testing.

Last week, the Chancellor Rishi Sunak outlined further details on the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) – which has already helped 1 million employers across the UK furlough 8.4 million jobs, protecting people’s livelihoods.