I know the present situation is causing real difficulties for the road haulage sector and I have been in touch with ministers regarding the industry. I also understand that the sector has a vital role to play in the national effort to combat the spread of the disease.
I completely agree that social care is at the front line of the fight with coronavirus, protecting vulnerable people and continuing to provide vital care in communities across the country.
All animals deserve to be respected and cared for throughout their lives, so the Government has made a clear commitment that future trade agreements will uphold our country’s high animal welfare standards. These standards will not be watered down in pursuit of any trade deal.
I share your concern for the safety of all workers who are continuing to travel to work, as they are unable to work from home, including construction workers. The Chief Medical Officer has confirmed that under his advice these workers can continue to work and travel to work.
Ventilators are vital to treating people with severe cases of COVID-19. It is welcome that the Government has issued a national call-to-arms, asking manufacturers across the country to turn their capabilities towards building more ventilators, while also doing everything it can to buy as many ventilators around the world as possible.
Consular teams are working around the clock to provide the most accurate information to UK nationals abroad. Travel advice is constantly updated and I know ministers continue to keep advice under close and constant review. I have been assured that the UK will do everything in its power to get those British nationals affected the care, support and advice they need.
In response to the outbreak of coronavirus and the increasing number of confirmed cases in the UK, the Government has closed early years providers. Early years providers will only remain open to the children of critical workers who are vital to our fight against coronavirus, such as NHS staff, police and delivery drivers, and the most vulnerable children.
t the Budget the Chancellor set out the first stage of the Government’s response with a £30 billion package of support for people and businesses. This included supporting small and medium-sized businesses to cope with the extra costs of Statutory Sick Pay by refunding eligible costs.
The Government is taking action to help the 4.6 million households in the private rented sector by protecting them from rogue landlords, banning unfair fees, and ensuring they have access to longer-term tenancies.
