Parliament votes today on the Government’s plan to introduce a second lockdown across England.
North Tyneside Borough Green Party agrees that we must follow the science – but we urge the Government (and NT Council) to do more to protect our community.
The Economy
As non-essential shops are told to shut, many small businesses will be concerned for their existence. The run up to Christmas is the busiest time of year for many traders – and the timing of this lockdown will make a difficult year even harder.
NT Council must support the local economy – supporting social distancing when shops can reopen to ensure we avoid lockdown 3.
We would urge everyone to shop local and support our community.
Education
The evidence shows that a lockdown, with schools remaining open, will be significantly less effective than if they were closed.
The ‘R’ rate is shown to be high in education settings – whether at school, college or university. This puts students and staff at risk, but also increases the risk to families as those in education return home.
Education is important – but we must protect those who are ‘clinically vunerable’.
Where the Government does not act, NT Council must use discretion before using legal action (i.e. school attendance fines) against parents who want to protect their family.
Adult Social Care
The first lockdown was difficult for many older people. Many were left feeling frightened and isolated as they shielded from the virus.
Organisations such as Age UK NT and VODA NT did fantastic work to provide support to these communities where they could.
NT Council must provide support to these organisations and must improve their own social care provision.
Welfare State
The decision to extend the furlough scheme is very welcome. However, it leaves several questions unanswered:
(i) why did the Government not offer to extend the scheme when Northern regions were put into Tier 3 lockdown?
(ii) how does the Government plan to support sole traders?
(iii) what about those who have already lost their jobs?
The truth is that furlough is a ‘sticking plaster’ solution – and Universal Credit is insufficient to protect families.
We would urge NT Council to follow Green Councils around the UK in calling for a Universal Basic Income.
Transport & Environment
As the new restrictions come into effect, many will be looking to alternative transportation, away from public transport.
We urge NT Council to encourage, and provide space for, active travel.