conservativehome--2020-04-21--Andy Street: NHS staff have invoked the Blitz spirit during these times. They must be rewarded for t

Andy Street: NHS staff have invoked the Blitz spirit during these times. They must be rewarded for their gallantry.

Andy Street is Mayor of the West Midlands , and is a former Managing Director of John Lewis .
As we continue to battle the Coronavirus pandemic , May 8 has a new significance this year – as the next date on which the national lockdown will be reviewed .
With so many people indoors , the traditional May Bank Holiday seems oddly disconnected from the challenges we all now face .
Yet the other celebration connected to May 8 – VE Day – resonates with so much that is going on now .
Since this outbreak began , wartime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our incredible health staff on the frontline .
Efforts to build ventilators evoke memories of Dunkirk .
The Government talks of unprecedented peacetime measures .
The work of volunteers invokes the Blitz spirit .
The 75th anniversary of VE Day may have been curtailed by a new foe , but in these challenging times , it provides a link with a past generation who overcame the last great national test of the civilian population .
It was during World War Two that the George Cross was created to reflect the courage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the face of danger .
We are seeing that courage again today .
I believe that the campaign for our NHS staff to receive the George Cross , inspired by Lord Ashcroft , is an appropriate recognition for their incredible efforts .
Last week I was honoured to join HRH Prince William to help officially open the NHS Nightingale Hospital at the NEC .
Just a few weeks ago , this was an empty space .
Now it is a fully-operational hospital providing 500 beds .
This Herculean feat involved NHS staff and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the military .
It stands as a testament to what we can achieve if we pull together as one .
It also represents the respect and gratitude we all feel towards our NHS staff .
The Nightingale name above the door also perfectly embodies the driving principles of those who are on the frontline of this crisis – they are saving lives whilst demonstrating care and compassion .
The NHS , from the doctors and nurses on the wards , to the ambulance crews and paramedics , and all support staff , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This crisis has shown , more than ever , the vital importance of a health service that is free at the point of use .
Look around the world , at the disjointed approach produced by countries where private healthcare is prevalent , and you can see the true value of our single , united health service .
The nation ’ s weekly doorstep celebration of the NHS – millions of people applauding , whistling , ringing bells and banging pots and pans in a chorus of support – is proof of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As an institution , the NHS reflects so much of the best of British society .
The NHS is truly democratic , treating everyone the same .
The personal gratitude expressed by the Prime Minister to the nurses and staff who oversaw his recovery from COVID-19 illustrates how the NHS is there for all of us .
The NHS also reflects of the diversity of our modern society .
In the crisis , we see the young caring for the old , and we also see retired doctors and nurses returning to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff from all backgrounds and from across the globe helping the people of the UK .
Right now , the NHS is also hugely important to the health of our economy .
As we try to protect business through the duration of the crisis , the NHS is a huge employer that simply keeps going .
At the same time , our health service is feeding sectors that can drive our economic recovery , like the innovative life sciences cluster here in the West Midlands , as well as the pharmaceutical industry nationally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procurement power , the NHS is often a catalyst for business innovation .
Here in the West Midlands , the roll-out of 5G is driving innovation in digital healthcare while our hospitals and universities collaborate closely to develop preventative medicine .
When our region was the first in the UK to draw up an Industrial Strategy , innovation driven by the NHS formed a core part of our ambitions .
The NHS can play an important part not only in the recovery of our nation ’ s health post pandemic , it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course as an institution , the NHS needs care and investment .
Prior to the outbreak , the Government unveiled a huge programme of future investment , but now , as we fight this virus , our focus is rightly being placed on the here and now .
Some areas are clearly not as good as we want – such as the continuing issue of sourcing enough PPE .
The appointment of Lord Deighton as a PPE ‘ Tsar ’ will improve this , as he brings to bear his immense experience in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at hand .
We see now , more than ever , how the NHS is the embodiment of British society .
And it is the NHS staff , putting themselves at risk daily , who have become our modern heroes and heroines .
That is why I believe the George Cross is an appropriate acknowledgment of the bravery we are seeing .
This is not a gimmick and is more than mere pomp and circumstance .
These awards exist to allow us , as a society , to recognise those who have stepped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These are unprecedented times , but awarding this medal collectively , to thousands of people for their joint endeavour , has been done before .
In another echo of World War Two , we must look back more than 70 years to find a fitting precedent .
In 1942 The George Cross was awarded to the island of Malta by King George , so as to “ bear witness to the heroism and devotion of its people ” during the great siege they underwent in the early part of the Second World War @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Cross , the NHS was founded .
After seven decades of devoted service to the British people , NHS staff now find themselves under siege too , from the Coronavirus .
There is no doubt in my mind that this is their finest hour .
It is time to reflect the unique contribution to our society of the NHS , and the gallantry shown by its staff .
The National Health Service has earned the George Cross .

Andy Street is Mayor of the West Midlands, and is a former Managing Director of John Lewis.
As we continue to battle the Coronavirus pandemic, May 8 has a new significance this year – as the next date on which the national lockdown will be reviewed.
With so many people indoors, the traditional May Bank Holiday seems oddly disconnected from the challenges we all now face. Yet the other celebration connected to May 8 – VE Day – resonates with so much that is going on now.
Since this outbreak began, wartime comparisons have been common. We speak of our incredible health staff on the frontline. Efforts to build ventilators evoke memories of Dunkirk. The Government talks of unprecedented peacetime measures. The work of volunteers invokes the Blitz spirit.
The 75th anniversary of VE Day may have been curtailed by a new foe, but in these challenging times, it provides a link with a past generation who overcame the last great national test of the civilian population.
It was during World War Two that the George Cross was created to reflect the courage of those civilians who showed extraordinary bravery in the face of danger. We are seeing that courage again today. I believe that the campaign for our NHS staff to receive the George Cross, inspired by Lord Ashcroft, is an appropriate recognition for their incredible efforts.
Last week I was honoured to join HRH Prince William to help officially open the NHS Nightingale Hospital at the NEC. Just a few weeks ago, this was an empty space. Now it is a fully-operational hospital providing 500 beds.
This Herculean feat involved NHS staff and companies from across the region working together with the military. It stands as a testament to what we can achieve if we pull together as one. It also represents the respect and gratitude we all feel towards our NHS staff.
The Nightingale name above the door also perfectly embodies the driving principles of those who are on the frontline of this crisis – they are saving lives whilst demonstrating care and compassion.
The NHS, from the doctors and nurses on the wards, to the ambulance crews and paramedics, and all support staff, represents the very best of our society. This crisis has shown, more than ever, the vital importance of a health service that is free at the point of use. Look around the world, at the disjointed approach produced by countries where private healthcare is prevalent, and you can see the true value of our single, united health service.
The nation’s weekly doorstep celebration of the NHS – millions of people applauding, whistling, ringing bells and banging pots and pans in a chorus of support – is proof of the debt of gratitude felt by all.
As an institution, the NHS reflects so much of the best of British society. The NHS is truly democratic, treating everyone the same. The personal gratitude expressed by the Prime Minister to the nurses and staff who oversaw his recovery from COVID-19 illustrates how the NHS is there for all of us.
The NHS also reflects of the diversity of our modern society. In the crisis, we see the young caring for the old, and we also see retired doctors and nurses returning to join the fight. We see NHS staff from all backgrounds and from across the globe helping the people of the UK.
Right now, the NHS is also hugely important to the health of our economy. As we try to protect business through the duration of the crisis, the NHS is a huge employer that simply keeps going. At the same time, our health service is feeding sectors that can drive our economic recovery, like the innovative life sciences cluster here in the West Midlands, as well as the pharmaceutical industry nationally.
As a huge organisation with vast procurement power, the NHS is often a catalyst for business innovation. Here in the West Midlands, the roll-out of 5G is driving innovation in digital healthcare while our hospitals and universities collaborate closely to develop preventative medicine.
When our region was the first in the UK to draw up an Industrial Strategy, innovation driven by the NHS formed a core part of our ambitions. The NHS can play an important part not only in the recovery of our nation’s health post pandemic, it can help heal the economy too.
Of course as an institution, the NHS needs care and investment. Prior to the outbreak, the Government unveiled a huge programme of future investment, but now, as we fight this virus, our focus is rightly being placed on the here and now. Some areas are clearly not as good as we want – such as the continuing issue of sourcing enough PPE. The appointment of Lord Deighton as a PPE ‘Tsar’ will improve this, as he brings to bear his immense experience in organising the London Olympics on the challenge at hand.
We see now, more than ever, how the NHS is the embodiment of British society. And it is the NHS staff, putting themselves at risk daily, who have become our modern heroes and heroines. That is why I believe the George Cross is an appropriate acknowledgment of the bravery we are seeing.
This is not a gimmick and is more than mere pomp and circumstance. These awards exist to allow us, as a society, to recognise those who have stepped forward in a time of need.
These are unprecedented times, but awarding this medal collectively, to thousands of people for their joint endeavour, has been done before. In another echo of World War Two, we must look back more than 70 years to find a fitting precedent.
In 1942 The George Cross was awarded to the island of Malta by King George, so as to “bear witness to the heroism and devotion of its people” during the great siege they underwent in the early part of the Second World War.
Six years after Malta received the George Cross, the NHS was founded. After seven decades of devoted service to the British people, NHS staff now find themselves under siege too, from the Coronavirus. There is no doubt in my mind that this is their finest hour.
It is time to reflect the unique contribution to our society of the NHS, and the gallantry shown by its staff. The National Health Service has earned the George Cross.


conservativehome--2020-04-21--Calling Conservatives: New public appointments announced. Chief Executive of the Financial Conduct A

Calling Conservatives: New public appointments announced. Chief Executive of the Financial Conduct Authority – and more

Eight years ago , the TaxPayers ’ Alliance reported that “ in the last year , five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories ” .
It currently reports that almost half of avowedly political appointees last year owed their allegiance to Labour Party , compared to less than a third for the Conservatives .
Despite the selection of some Party members or supporters to fill important posts , over time , the Conservatives have punched beneath their weight when it comes to public appointments .
One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number as Labour supporters .
To help remedy this , each week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies , so that qualified Conservatives can be aware of the opportunities presented .
“ This is an opportunity to take on an intellectually demanding role at the heart of international financial services , leading a sizeable and complex organisation .
There is a requirement for strong leadership in a challenging environment to undertake a critically important role .
Under Andrew Bailey , the FCA has formulated a transformation programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next phase of its development : a data strategy and enhanced analytical skills to rapidly identify harm across an exceptionally broad range of firms of all sizes exploiting fast-moving changes in technology and distribution to target consumers ; enhance employee capabilities and processes to act swiftly on the harms identified ; [ and ] and with a regulatory framework which is appropriate following the completion of EU withdrawal , and which takes advantage of the opportunities for better and more efficient regulation brought by technology and behavioural science.
” “ UnLtd is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Millennium Awards Trust ( MAT ) .
The Millennium Awards Trust was established by the Millennium Commission which founded it with a permanent endowment of £100 million of National Lottery funds .
The MAT is governed by a Trust Deed which defines the framework within which the MAT should operate .
This Deed provides for the appointment of a Protector of the Trust ( the Protector ) who has a fiduciary duty to ensure the integrity of the administration of the Trust and the propriety of its procedures .
The Protector is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Secretary of State for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport .
We are now looking to identify a suitably qualified individual to succeed the incumbent who is coming to the end of their term .
We are looking to formally appoint a successor in Summer 2020.
” “ This is an exciting opportunity to join the Board of an organisation which keeps Britain moving .
You would be joining the DVSA at an exciting time , with the opportunity to help shape the future of the agency and ensure its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the executive team in developing the organisation to be equipped for a future where technological transformation will significantly influence mobility .
The DVSA is now seeking to appoint two Non-Executive Directors to the Board who will embrace technological disruption , possess an entrepreneurial spirit and have a passion for harnessing the possibilities that digital transformation plays in driving greater customer insight and intimacy .
We seek a Non-Executive Director who will be expected to provide thought leadership in digital transformation and keep abreast of digital transformation trends and innovative approaches to operational excellence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who will have the necessary skills required to chair the audit and risk committee.
” Time : Up to 36 days per annum .
“ Led by the Non-Executive Chair , the Crown Commercial Service ( CCS ) Board is responsible for the oversight of the operation of CCS , with emphasis on its strategic direction , management control , and corporate governance .
All Non-Executive Board Members are expected to contribute to decisions covering the strategy for the organisation and the overall direction of the business , adding value by offering counsel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking an exceptional individual to join our Board as a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Technology and Digital Transformation Committee to support progression of our transformation journey… To complement our existing Board we are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who bring recent experience in leading large scale digital transformation in either the private or public sector.
” “ As a non-executive director , you will play an active role on the board of SLC , supporting the SLC Executive Team and SLC Chair to deliver the company ’ s portfolio of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including the continued growth of its customer base , delivery of recommendations from the Tailored Review ( Annex 3 ) and implementation of the Review of Post-18 Education .
A key element of the role will be to work with the board to ensure that the resources and skills available to the Company are commensurate with and focussed on its delivery obligations .
The SLC administers the data underpinning one of Government ’ s major assets : the Student Loan book .
This data supports the sale of tranches of loans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the exchequer and taxpayers ( £3.6bn raised to date ) .
There may be other opportunities to realise the value , in the widest sense , of the SLC ’ s data in the future .
”

Eight years ago, the TaxPayers’ Alliance reported that “in the last year, five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories”.
It currently reports that almost half of avowedly political appointees last year owed their allegiance to Labour Party, compared to less than a third for the Conservatives.
Despite the selection of some Party members or supporters to fill important posts, over time, the Conservatives have punched beneath their weight when it comes to public appointments. One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply don’t apply in the same number as Labour supporters.
To help remedy this, each week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies, so that qualified Conservatives can be aware of the opportunities presented.
– – – – – – – – – –
Financial Conduct Authority – Chief Executive
“This is an opportunity to take on an intellectually demanding role at the heart of international financial services, leading a sizeable and complex organisation. There is a requirement for strong leadership in a challenging environment to undertake a critically important role. Under Andrew Bailey, the FCA has formulated a transformation programme, to equip the organisation for the next phase of its development: a data strategy and enhanced analytical skills to rapidly identify harm across an exceptionally broad range of firms of all sizes exploiting fast-moving changes in technology and distribution to target consumers; enhance employee capabilities and processes to act swiftly on the harms identified; [and] and with a regulatory framework which is appropriate following the completion of EU withdrawal, and which takes advantage of the opportunities for better and more efficient regulation brought by technology and behavioural science.”
Time: Full-time.
Remuneration: Competitive.
Closes: 24 April
– – – – – – – – – –
UnLtd – Protector of the Millennium Awards Trust
“UnLtd is a registered charity and the sole trustee of the Millennium Awards Trust (MAT). The Millennium Awards Trust was established by the Millennium Commission which founded it with a permanent endowment of £100 million of National Lottery funds. The MAT is governed by a Trust Deed which defines the framework within which the MAT should operate. This Deed provides for the appointment of a Protector of the Trust (the Protector) who has a fiduciary duty to ensure the integrity of the administration of the Trust and the propriety of its procedures. The Protector is appointed for a term of three years by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. We are now looking to identify a suitably qualified individual to succeed the incumbent who is coming to the end of their term. We are looking to formally appoint a successor in Summer 2020.”
Time: 3-4 hours per quarter.
Remuneration: £5,000 per annum honorarium.
Closes: 24 April
– – – – – – – – – –
Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency – Non-Executive Directors
“This is an exciting opportunity to join the Board of an organisation which keeps Britain moving. You would be joining the DVSA at an exciting time, with the opportunity to help shape the future of the agency and ensure its continued success. This will mean supporting the executive team in developing the organisation to be equipped for a future where technological transformation will significantly influence mobility. The DVSA is now seeking to appoint two Non-Executive Directors to the Board who will embrace technological disruption, possess an entrepreneurial spirit and have a passion for harnessing the possibilities that digital transformation plays in driving greater customer insight and intimacy. We seek a Non-Executive Director who will be expected to provide thought leadership in digital transformation and keep abreast of digital transformation trends and innovative approaches to operational excellence, as well as a Non-Executive Director who will have the necessary skills required to chair the audit and risk committee.”
Time: Up to 36 days per annum.
Remuneration: £15,000.
Closes: 28 April
– – – – – – – – – –
Crown Commercial Service – Non-Executive Directors
“Led by the Non-Executive Chair, the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Board is responsible for the oversight of the operation of CCS, with emphasis on its strategic direction, management control, and corporate governance. All Non-Executive Board Members are expected to contribute to decisions covering the strategy for the organisation and the overall direction of the business, adding value by offering counsel, advice and challenge. We are seeking an exceptional individual to join our Board as a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Technology and Digital Transformation Committee to support progression of our transformation journey… To complement our existing Board we are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who bring recent experience in leading large scale digital transformation in either the private or public sector.”
Time: Approx 2-3 days per month.
Remuneration: £15,000 per annum.
Closes: 17 May
– – – – – – – – – –
Student Loans Company Board – Non-Executive Directors
“As a non-executive director, you will play an active role on the board of SLC, supporting the SLC Executive Team and SLC Chair to deliver the company’s portfolio of priorities, overcome challenges and exploit opportunities, including the continued growth of its customer base, delivery of recommendations from the Tailored Review (Annex 3) and implementation of the Review of Post-18 Education. A key element of the role will be to work with the board to ensure that the resources and skills available to the Company are commensurate with and focussed on its delivery obligations. The SLC administers the data underpinning one of Government’s major assets: the Student Loan book. This data supports the sale of tranches of loans to monetise that asset for the benefit of the exchequer and taxpayers (£3.6bn raised to date). There may be other opportunities to realise the value, in the widest sense, of the SLC’s data in the future.”
Time: Two days per month.
Remuneration: £12,000, up to £17,000.
Closes: 19 May


conservativehome--2020-04-21--Parliament returns today. Don’t expect it to pile pressure on the Government.  At least until early

Parliament returns today. Don’t expect it to pile pressure on the Government.  At least until early May.

It will be like no other Parliament in history .
This afternoon , Jacob Rees-Mogg is expected to move a motion allowing for a virtual Commons and Lords .
Valerie Vaz , his Shadow , will be in her front-bench place , but the Chamber won ’ t be full .
The motion will pass – and , at Prime Minister ’ s Questions tomorrow , Keir Starmer will apparently appear via video link , as may Dominic Raab , standing in for the Prime Minister .
It isn ’ t yet clear whether the new Commons proceedings will settle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virtual .
Rees-Mogg wrote yesterday that up to 50 MPs will be allowed into the chamber , and that as many as 120 at any one time may participate virtually .
That ’ s the same figure that ConservativeHome quoted last week , based on the maximum number of MPs that the technology for transmission can cope with , at least at the moment .
The Commons Leader pointed out that there will be no waving of order papers , no heckling ( we presume ) , and sought to prepare the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And it appears that there will be no votes until next week at the earliest .
This is crucial .
Some will feel that we have all got by perfectly well without MPs doing their stuff in the chamber .
But one of the main purposes of the legislature is to hold the executive to account .
It has been missed during recent weeks , not least as part of the wider debate about the lockdown ’ s future .
This site may be wrong in expecting the Commons , as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easing of the lockdown – as the weeks grind on , voters see redundancies and business closure replacing home working and furloughs in larger numbers , the polls move and MPs reflect their constituents ’ anxieties .
Any such mood – or any other – inevitably means votes , at least if Parliament is to function authentically , and it will be worth watching out for ingenious amendments to Bills , backbench motions , and whatever Starmer chooses to do with Opposition Day motions .
But not yet .
It looks as though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week to whatever its new normal may turn out to be .
That gives Ministers a week longer to prepare plans to relax the lockdown gradually and help resolve their internal debate about when this should happen and how .
Which means that any pressure on the Government to change course can ’ t build until next week at the earliest .
The week after that scarcely counts : Parliament will sit for only two days before rising on Wednesday May 6 .
Friday May 8 sees the first of next month ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who back an immediate lifting of the lockdown shouldn ’ t expect too much until Parliament then returns again on May 11 .
By then , we expect that Boris Johnson will have laid out some tentative easing , seeking to lift restrictions enough to revive the economy without also whipping up a second wave and thus swamping the NHS .
And keeping ahead of public opinion as he does so .
The heavy briefing of the last couple of days looks designed to dampen down any expectations of a big-scale relaxation – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be one , but because Minister want to stick to their triple theme : stay at home , protect the NHS , save lives .

It will be like no other Parliament in history. This afternoon, Jacob Rees-Mogg is expected to move a motion allowing for a virtual Commons and Lords. Valerie Vaz, his Shadow, will be in her front-bench place, but the Chamber won’t be full.
The motion will pass – and, at Prime Minister’s Questions tomorrow, Keir Starmer will apparently appear via video link, as may Dominic Raab, standing in for the Prime Minister. It isn’t yet clear whether the new Commons proceedings will settle down to be wholly or only partly virtual.
Rees-Mogg wrote yesterday that up to 50 MPs will be allowed into the chamber, and that as many as 120 at any one time may participate virtually. That’s the same figure that ConservativeHome quoted last week, based on the maximum number of MPs that the technology for transmission can cope with, at least at the moment.
The Commons Leader pointed out that there will be no waving of order papers, no heckling (we presume), and sought to prepare the public for systems crashing or dodgy internet connections. And it appears that there will be no votes until next week at the earliest.
This is crucial. Some will feel that we have all got by perfectly well without MPs doing their stuff in the chamber. But one of the main purposes of the legislature is to hold the executive to account. It has been missed during recent weeks, not least as part of the wider debate about the lockdown’s future.
This site may be wrong in expecting the Commons, as a whole, to push gradually for an easing of the lockdown – as the weeks grind on, voters see redundancies and business closure replacing home working and furloughs in larger numbers, the polls move and MPs reflect their constituents’ anxieties.
Any such mood – or any other – inevitably means votes, at least if Parliament is to function authentically, and it will be worth watching out for ingenious amendments to Bills, backbench motions, and whatever Starmer chooses to do with Opposition Day motions.
But not yet. It looks as though Parliament will be feeling its way this week to whatever its new normal may turn out to be. That gives Ministers a week longer to prepare plans to relax the lockdown gradually and help resolve their internal debate about when this should happen and how.
Which means that any pressure on the Government to change course can’t build until next week at the earliest. The week after that scarcely counts: Parliament will sit for only two days before rising on Wednesday May 6. Friday May 8 sees the first of next month’s two bank holidays.
So those who back an immediate lifting of the lockdown shouldn’t expect too much until Parliament then returns again on May 11. By then, we expect that Boris Johnson will have laid out some tentative easing, seeking to lift restrictions enough to revive the economy without also whipping up a second wave and thus swamping the NHS.
And keeping ahead of public opinion as he does so. The heavy briefing of the last couple of days looks designed to dampen down any expectations of a big-scale relaxation – not only because there won’t be one, but because Minister want to stick to their triple theme: stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives.


Coronavirus Count

UK cumulative total of lab-confirmed cases : 124,743 ( Up from 120,067 ) .
UK cumulative total of COVID-19 associated UK deaths in hospital : 16,509 ( Up from 16,060 ) .
Latest daily number of lab-confirmed UK cases : 4,676 ( Down from 5,850 ) .
Latest daily number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths in hospital : 449 ( Down from 596 ) .
From the Government ’ s website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
DAILY NUMBER OF COVID-19 ASSOCIATED DEATHS IN HOSPITAL From the Government ’ s website Number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK .
ConHome note April 14 : Public Health England has changed its presentation of the data to make it clear that the UK cumulative and daily totals of cases are of lab-confirmed figures , and that the cumulative and daily totals of deaths exclude those outside hospitals ( i.e : in care homes ) .
It has also separated out its graph info for cases and deaths .
We will reproduce the daily figures rather than cumulative ones .
“ The risk to the UK has been raised to high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
GOVERNMENT RULES ON STAYING AT HOME AND AWAY FROM OTHERS See here .
Published on Monday March 23 .
GUIDANCE : FURTHER BUSINESSES AND PREMISES TO CLOSE See here .
Published on Monday March 23 .
HOW EVERYONE CAN HELP STOP THE CORONAVIRUS ( SOCIAL DISTANCING ) See here .
Republished on Monday March 23 .
STAY AT HOME IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE CORONAVIRUS ( SELF-DISTANCING ) See here .
Republished on Monday March 23 .
See here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR WORKERS ON WHAT AND HOW THEY CAN CLAIM See here .
Published on Friday March 20 .
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR LANDLORDS , TENANTS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES NEW See here .
Published on Saturday March 28 .
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON WHAT THE CORONAVIRUS BILL WILL DO See here .
Published on Wednesday March 18 HOW TO AVOID CATCHING OR SPREADING CORONAVIRUS • Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds .
• Always wash your hands when you get home or into work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soap and water are not available .
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve ( not your hands ) when you cough or sneeze .
• Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards .
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell .
The symptoms of coronavirus are : However , these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness .
The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common , such as cold and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do .
Use this service if : • You think you might have coronavirus .
• In the last 14 days you ’ ve been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers .
• You ’ ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus .
• In Scotland call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours .
• In Wales call 111 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 0845 46 47 .
• Do not go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
• What the coronavirus is , how it ’ s spread and how to avoid catching it – Government NHS website overview .
• Stay at home advice and how to manage self-isolation .
( All information taken from Government sources .
Updated as of 7.00 on Tuesday April 21st . )

HEADLINE FACTS
Total number of lab-confirmed UK cases: 292,950 (Up from 291,409).
Total number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths: 41,481 (Up from 41,279).
Daily number of lab-confirmed UK cases: 1,541 (Up from 1,266).
Daily number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths: 202 (Up from 151).
England total cases: 156,410 (Up from 156,018 ).
England total deaths: 37,069 (Up from 36,883).
England death rate: 279.4 (Was 278.7).
Scotland total cases: 15,709 (Up from 15,682).
Scotland total deaths: 2,439 (Up from 2,434).
Scotland death rate: 288.9 (Was 288.4).
Wales total cases: 14,658 (Up from 14,581).
Wales total deaths: 1,435 (Up from 1,425).
Wales death rate: 467.0 (Was 464.6)
Northern Ireland total cases: 4,838 (Up from 4,822)
Northern Ireland total deaths: 538 (Up from 537).
Northern Ireland death rate: 257.1 (Was 256.3).
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
DAILY NUMBER OF COVID-19 ASSOCIATED DEATHS BY DATE REPORTED
DAILY NUMBER OF LAB-CONFIRMED ENGLAND CASES
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
– – –
RISK
“The risk to the UK has been raised to high” –
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
– – –
NHS VOLUNTEER RESPONDER FORM
See here
(The Government’s scheme to recruit 250,000 volunteers.)
– – –
OUR PLAN TO REBUILD: THE UK GOVERNMENT’S COVID-19 RECOVERY STRATEGY
See here. New as of Monday May 11.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON THE LOCKDOWN.
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON SHIELDING AND PROTECTING PEOPLE WHO ARE CLINICALLY EXTREMELY VULNERABLE FROM COVID-19
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON SOCIAL DISTANCING
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: GENERAL ADVICE
See here.
GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS. WHAT YOU CAN DO AND CAN’T DO
See here.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR LANDLORDS, TENANTS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES NEW
See here. Published on Saturday March 28.
– – –
HOW TO AVOID CATCHING OR SPREADING CORONAVIRUS
Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds .
Always wash your hands when you get home or into work .
Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available .
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze .
Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards .
Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of coronavirus are:
A cough.
A high temperature.
Shortness of breath.
However, these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.
The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
USING 111
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do.
Use this service if:
You think you might have coronavirus.
In the last 14 days you’ve been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers.
You’ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
In Scotland call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours.
In Wales call 111 (if available in your area) or 0845 46 47.
In Northern Ireland call 111.
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.
FURTHER LINKS TO GOVERNMENT ADVICE
– – –
(All information taken from Government sources.
Updated as of 19.00 on Friday June 12.)


conservativehome--2020-04-21--Victoria Hewson: The curious tale of Oxfordshire, a trans inclusion toolkit – and a High Court Revie

Victoria Hewson: The curious tale of Oxfordshire, a trans inclusion toolkit – and a High Court Review

Victoria Hewson is a solicitor and co-founder of Radical , a campaign for truth and freedom in the gender recognition debate .
She and Rebecca Lowe , her co-founder , alternate authorship of this column on trans , sex and gender issues .
It was announced on Saturday that an application by a 13-year-old schoolgirl ( known as Miss A ) for judicial review of Oxfordshire County Council ’ s Trans Inclusion Toolkit has been accepted by the High Court .
This means that the case will proceed to trial , and that the girl ’ s claim , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Safe Schools Alliance , will be heard in full .
If she succeeds , it may lead to the council having to withdraw the toolkit , along with other local authorities that also use it .
The toolkit is an alarming document .
Its recommendations – for professionals working in schools , colleges , and educational settings – include : • None A suggested script for schools to use to communicate to parents/carers , stating : “ As a school/college/setting we recognise the right of all individuals to determine their own gender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual in our school/setting to develop their own gender identity and expression including where this may involve transition ” .
• None On toilets – “ Children and young people are supported through the Equality Act 2010 to access the toilet that corresponds to their gender identity ; so trans girls because they are girls , can use the girls ’ toilets and trans boys the boys ’ toilets.
” • None On changing rooms – “ In all cases , trans children and young people should have access to the changing room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None On PE and fitness – “ Schools should aim to reduce as far as possible segregating children and young people by gender .
* Trans children and young people should be supported to equally access PE and where lessons are segregated by gender should be enabled to participate in the lesson which corresponds to their gender identity if this is what they request.
” • None On residential trips – “ As far as possible , trans children and young people should be able to sleep in dorms appropriate to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young people may not feel comfortable doing this and in such cases alternative sleeping and living arrangements should be made.
” All of this is based on some quite egregious misstatements of the Equality Act 2010 , which the toolkit purports to be assisting schools to comply with .
The toolkit refers throughout to ‘ gender identity ’ and the concept of a ‘ trans child ’ , and claims that the Equality Act underpins the recommendations made .
But the Equality Act 2010 contains no such protected characteristic of ‘ gender identity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ‘ sex ’ and ‘ gender re-assignment ’ , but neither of these are the same as ‘ gender identity ’ .
Furthermore , as set out in Miss A ’ s grounds for review , submitted to the court , the council did not take into account the privacy , dignity and safety of other children , or even the existing regulations that require schools to provide separate facilities for boys and girls over the age of eight .
On these bases , her case is that the toolkit is unlawful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial review is to proceed , and will at least shed light on the council ’ s processes and justifications for adopting this document and recommending that schools under its control follow its guidance .
The toolkit quotes activist organisations like Stonewall liberally , and while a number of local authorities , including Oxfordshire , are said to have contributed to its content , it has been suggested that it was produced by an employee of Stonewall .
Oxfordshire County Council ( which is Conservative-dominated but under no overall control ) proudly proclaims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint winner of last year ’ s Stonewall Education Equality Index .
Before this case was initiated , the concerned parents who set up the Safe Schools Network had attempted to engage councillors in a discussion about the toolkit and the review process that had led to its adoption , but one member tells me they were met with obfuscation and dismissal .
Perhaps the council should pay more attention to the interests of parents and children in the county , and less time engaging with Stonewall .
It is also notable that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past for failings in safeguarding of children in an investigation into child sexual exploitation in the county .
Whether or not the judicial review is successful and the toolkit is withdrawn , voters and parents in Oxfordshire and the other local authorities that have adopted it should be asking serious questions of their councillors who have responsibility for education and safeguarding .
The use of Department for Education guidance , and documents like the Government Equalities Office ’ s LGBT Action Plan in support of the toolkit , also raise questions for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on transgender issues in schools , in light of the real provisions of the Equality Act , is overdue .
This judicial review of Oxfordshire County Council makes the case for the issuing of that guidance all the more urgent .
*In fact , of course , they are not segregated by gender ( a contestable matter of social construct ) : they are segregated by sex ( a matter of biological truth ) .

Victoria Hewson is a solicitor and co-founder of Radical, a campaign for truth and freedom in the gender recognition debate. She and Rebecca Lowe, her co-founder, alternate authorship of this column on trans, sex and gender issues.
It was announced on Saturday that an application by a 13-year-old schoolgirl (known as Miss A) for judicial review of Oxfordshire County Council’s Trans Inclusion Toolkit has been accepted by the High Court.
This means that the case will proceed to trial, and that the girl’s claim, which has been supported by crowd funding and the Safe Schools Alliance, will be heard in full.
If she succeeds, it may lead to the council having to withdraw the toolkit, along with other local authorities that also use it.
The toolkit is an alarming document. Its recommendations – for professionals working in schools, colleges, and educational settings – include:
A suggested script for schools to use to communicate to parents/carers, stating: “As a school/college/setting we recognise the right of all individuals to determine their own gender identity. We will fully support every individual in our school/setting to develop their own gender identity and expression including where this may involve transition”.
On toilets – “Children and young people are supported through the Equality Act 2010 to access the toilet that corresponds to their gender identity; so trans girls because they are girls, can use the girls’ toilets and trans boys the boys’ toilets.”
On changing rooms – “In all cases, trans children and young people should have access to the changing room that corresponds to their gender identity.”
On PE and fitness – “Schools should aim to reduce as far as possible segregating children and young people by gender.* Trans children and young people should be supported to equally access PE and where lessons are segregated by gender should be enabled to participate in the lesson which corresponds to their gender identity if this is what they request.”
On residential trips – “As far as possible, trans children and young people should be able to sleep in dorms appropriate to their gender identity. Some trans children and young people may not feel comfortable doing this and in such cases alternative sleeping and living arrangements should be made.”
All of this is based on some quite egregious misstatements of the Equality Act 2010, which the toolkit purports to be assisting schools to comply with.
The toolkit refers throughout to ‘gender identity’ and the concept of a ‘trans child’, and claims that the Equality Act underpins the recommendations made.
But the Equality Act 2010 contains no such protected characteristic of ‘gender identity’. It does include protected characteristics of ‘sex’ and ‘gender re-assignment’, but neither of these are the same as ‘gender identity’.
Furthermore, as set out in Miss A’s grounds for review, submitted to the court, the council did not take into account the privacy, dignity and safety of other children, or even the existing regulations that require schools to provide separate facilities for boys and girls over the age of eight. On these bases, her case is that the toolkit is unlawful.
It is welcome news that the judicial review is to proceed, and will at least shed light on the council’s processes and justifications for adopting this document and recommending that schools under its control follow its guidance.
The toolkit quotes activist organisations like Stonewall liberally, and while a number of local authorities, including Oxfordshire, are said to have contributed to its content, it has been suggested that it was produced by an employee of Stonewall.
Oxfordshire County Council (which is Conservative-dominated but under no overall control) proudly proclaims on its website that it was the joint winner of last year’s Stonewall Education Equality Index.
Before this case was initiated, the concerned parents who set up the Safe Schools Network had attempted to engage councillors in a discussion about the toolkit and the review process that had led to its adoption, but one member tells me they were met with obfuscation and dismissal.
Perhaps the council should pay more attention to the interests of parents and children in the county, and less time engaging with Stonewall.
It is also notable that the council has been strongly criticised in the past for failings in safeguarding of children in an investigation into child sexual exploitation in the county.
Whether or not the judicial review is successful and the toolkit is withdrawn, voters and parents in Oxfordshire and the other local authorities that have adopted it should be asking serious questions of their councillors who have responsibility for education and safeguarding.
The use of Department for Education guidance, and documents like the Government Equalities Office’s LGBT Action Plan in support of the toolkit, also raise questions for those bodies.
Up-to-date guidance from government on transgender issues in schools, in light of the real provisions of the Equality Act, is overdue. This judicial review of Oxfordshire County Council makes the case for the issuing of that guidance all the more urgent.
_____
*In fact, of course, they are not segregated by gender (a contestable matter of social construct): they are segregated by sex (a matter of biological truth).


conservativehome--2020-04-21--Will town halls run out of money?

Will town halls run out of money?

If you have tears , prepare to shed them now .
The lockdown has resulted in a shortfall of council founding due to a collapse in revenue from parking and traffic fines .
Cllr Richard Watts , the Leader of Islington Council and the Local Government Association ’ s resource chairman , has written to Robert Jenrick , the Housing , Communities and Local Government Secretary , to highlight this concern .
Cllr Watts said the “ income base is collapsing ” for councils , with leisure centres shut , public transport cut , and parking fees not coming in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being collected .
“ This loss of income represents a real reduction in the resources available to councils to fund services and will mean that , in the absence of any compensation , the balanced budgets set by councils will not be deliverable… “ We would like to urge you and the Chancellor of the Exchequer to set out in a clear joint letter of intent that the government is still willing to do whatever it takes and provide further funding to councils up front.
” Then he called for a “ commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ costs , net loss of income and savings that can not be delivered as a result of this crisis , so that they can continue to focus on delivering the response to the greatest challenge the UK and the world have seen in decades , as opposed to worrying about whether they need to start rationing because no further support might be forthcoming ” .
The demand strikes me as complete fantasy .
A severe economic recession is regarded as a virtual certainty .
Most of those in the private sector are already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Tax revenues will surely fall sharply .
Public Borrowing can not be increased by an unlimited amount – it relies on people being willing to lend money to the Government .
Maxing out the credit card just delays facing reality .
The notion that , in this context , local government should be compensated “ fully ” – that its spending should increase as if nothing had happened is not credible .
Fees and charges is a sensitive subject for council finances – especially for parking .
The LGA ’ s public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the examples of leisure centres ( which absurdly are often municipally owned and managed ) and revenue from planning applications .
Councils are not supposed to make a profit from parking charges but they do make a “ surplus ” of a billion pounds a year .
The money is meant to be spent on managing the parking service and paying for road improvements .
But even the dogs in the street know it is a huge money-spinner for councils .
“ Flexibility ” is shown by the bureaucrats as to what it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is akin to accepting that National Insurance contributions are a genuine insurance scheme .
It is still a bit awkward for councils to complain about the revenue from all the fines collapsing , when for years they have been making pious declarations about how there is no financial motive behind them and it is all purely for traffic management .
It should also be noted that councils were already being given a real terms funding increase from the taxpayer this year – even before the extra funding that has been allocated due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complicated matter .
For instance , if a school converts to academy status then it is funded directly , rather than the money being passed via a local authority .
Thus the change can be presented as being a cut in council funding – which is misleading .
Also , there has been a trend in recent years for the Revenue Support Grant – the main grant from central government to local authorities – to fall .
But that has been offset by councils being able to retain a higher share of Business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to have a higher redistribution of Business rates from elsewhere . )
There are all sorts of other grants as well – such as the New Homes Bonus .
Then there is the Council Tax – which is recent years , councils have been allowed to increase well above the inflation rate without being obliged to consult their residents via a referendum .
To try and find the upshot of all this , the Government offer a measure called “ spending power ” – the funding combining Business Rates , Government grants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase by the maximum allowed without a referendum .
In February , the Government announced “ the biggest increase in councils ’ spending power for a decade ” .
It said : “ Councils in England will have access to a share of £49.2 billion in 2020 to 2021 , an increase of £2.9 billion or 4.4 per cent in real-terms .
The settlement will give councils access to a £1.5 billion boost for social care funding and ensures , on average , residents can expect to see the lowest increase in council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ settlement also incentivises local economic growth , with £40 million to be redistributed to councils following increased growth in business rates income.
” On March 19th came news of an extra £2.9 billion : “ £1.6 billion will go to local authorities to help them respond to other coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) pressures across all the services they deliver .
This includes increasing support for the adult social care workforce and for services helping the most vulnerable , including homeless people .
£1.3 billion will be used to enhance the NHS discharge process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment can return home safely and quickly .
The funding will cover the follow-on care costs for adults in social care , or people who need additional support , when they are out of hospital and back in their homes , community settings , or care settings.
” Then on Saturday , the Government disclosed that even more money was being provided , another £1.6 billion : “ This extra £1.6 billion takes the total given to councils to help their communities through this crisis to over £3.2 billion , an unprecedented level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The funding will mean councils can continue to provide essential services and support to those who need it most.
” No doubt Cllr Watts will keep asking for more .
It may well be that even this extra money does not “ fully ” compensate councils .
But would it not be reasonable for councils to take some responsibility for themselves ?
Last week the Taxpayers Alliance reported : “ At least 2,667 people employed by local authorities in 2018-19 received more than £100,000 , an increase of 226 on 2017-18 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ than the previous year .
The average number of employees who received over £100,000 in total remuneration per local authority is 6.9 .
This is up by one person per council on last year ’ s average .
The average number receiving over £150,000 is 1.7 employees per council.
” The response from the “ sector ” was that these high salaries are justified as they provide such high calibre and innovative managers .
But if the only idea they come up with when faced with extra costs or reduced revenue is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , are they really providing such good value for money ?
The longer the lockdown continues , the greater the pressure on council finances will be .
Some who have managed to keep up their Council Tax payments thus far will run out of money and fall into arrears .
It is realistic for councils to face up to and assess such challenges .
What is delusional is expecting others to pick up the entire bill .

If you have tears, prepare to shed them now. The lockdown has resulted in a shortfall of council founding due to a collapse in revenue from parking and traffic fines.
Cllr Richard Watts, the Leader of Islington Council and the Local Government Association’s resource chairman, has written to Robert Jenrick, the Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary, to highlight this concern. Cllr Watts said the “income base is collapsing” for councils, with leisure centres shut, public transport cut, and parking fees not coming in, as well as lower business rates being collected.
He adds:
“This loss of income represents a real reduction in the resources available to councils to fund services and will mean that, in the absence of any compensation, the balanced budgets set by councils will not be deliverable…
“We would like to urge you and the Chancellor of the Exchequer to set out in a clear joint letter of intent that the government is still willing to do whatever it takes and provide further funding to councils up front.”
Then he called for a “commitment to compensate [councils] fully for costs, net loss of income and savings that cannot be delivered as a result of this crisis, so that they can continue to focus on delivering the response to the greatest challenge the UK and the world have seen in decades, as opposed to worrying about whether they need to start rationing because no further support might be forthcoming”.
The demand strikes me as complete fantasy. A severe economic recession is regarded as a virtual certainty. Most of those in the private sector are already taking a significant hit on their incomes. Tax revenues will surely fall sharply. Public Borrowing can not be increased by an unlimited amount – it relies on people being willing to lend money to the Government. Maxing out the credit card just delays facing reality. The notion that, in this context, local government should be compensated “fully” – that its spending should increase as if nothing had happened is not credible.
Fees and charges is a sensitive subject for council finances – especially for parking. The LGA’s public statement avoids mentioning it – offering instead the examples of leisure centres (which absurdly are often municipally owned and managed) and revenue from planning applications.
Councils are not supposed to make a profit from parking charges but they do make a “surplus” of a billion pounds a year. The money is meant to be spent on managing the parking service and paying for road improvements. But even the dogs in the street know it is a huge money-spinner for councils. “Flexibility” is shown by the bureaucrats as to what it is spent on. To pretend otherwise is akin to accepting that National Insurance contributions are a genuine insurance scheme. It is still a bit awkward for councils to complain about the revenue from all the fines collapsing, when for years they have been making pious declarations about how there is no financial motive behind them and it is all purely for traffic management.
It should also be noted that councils were already being given a real terms funding increase from the taxpayer this year – even before the extra funding that has been allocated due to the coronavirus. Measuring it is a complicated matter. For instance, if a school converts to academy status then it is funded directly, rather than the money being passed via a local authority. Thus the change can be presented as being a cut in council funding – which is misleading. Also, there has been a trend in recent years for the Revenue Support Grant – the main grant from central government to local authorities – to fall. But that has been offset by councils being able to retain a higher share of Business Rates (or, for poorer areas, to have a higher redistribution of Business rates from elsewhere.) There are all sorts of other grants as well – such as the New Homes Bonus.
Then there is the Council Tax – which is recent years, councils have been allowed to increase well above the inflation rate without being obliged to consult their residents via a referendum.
To try and find the upshot of all this, the Government offer a measure called “spending power” – the funding combining Business Rates, Government grants, and the Council Tax if councils increase by the maximum allowed without a referendum. In February, the Government announced “the biggest increase in councils’ spending power for a decade”. It said:
“Councils in England will have access to a share of £49.2 billion in 2020 to 2021, an increase of £2.9 billion or 4.4 per cent in real-terms. The settlement will give councils access to a £1.5 billion boost for social care funding and ensures, on average, residents can expect to see the lowest increase in council tax bills since 2016. The final settlement also incentivises local economic growth, with £40 million to be redistributed to councils following increased growth in business rates income.”
On March 19th came news of an extra £2.9 billion:
“£1.6 billion will go to local authorities to help them respond to other coronavirus (COVID-19) pressures across all the services they deliver. This includes increasing support for the adult social care workforce and for services helping the most vulnerable, including homeless people. £1.3 billion will be used to enhance the NHS discharge process so patients who no longer need urgent treatment can return home safely and quickly. The funding will cover the follow-on care costs for adults in social care, or people who need additional support, when they are out of hospital and back in their homes, community settings, or care settings.”
Then on Saturday, the Government disclosed that even more money was being provided, another £1.6 billion:
“This extra £1.6 billion takes the total given to councils to help their communities through this crisis to over £3.2 billion, an unprecedented level of additional financial support in recent times. The funding will mean councils can continue to provide essential services and support to those who need it most.”
No doubt Cllr Watts will keep asking for more. It may well be that even this extra money does not “fully” compensate councils. But would it not be reasonable for councils to take some responsibility for themselves? Last week the Taxpayers Alliance reported:
“At least 2,667 people employed by local authorities in 2018-19 received more than £100,000, an increase of 226 on 2017-18. 667 received over £150,000, 60 more than the previous year. The average number of employees who received over £100,000 in total remuneration per local authority is 6.9. This is up by one person per council on last year’s average. The average number receiving over £150,000 is 1.7 employees per council.”
The response from the “sector” was that these high salaries are justified as they provide such high calibre and innovative managers. But if the only idea they come up with when faced with extra costs or reduced revenue is that central Government “fully compensate” them, are they really providing such good value for money?
The longer the lockdown continues, the greater the pressure on council finances will be. Some who have managed to keep up their Council Tax payments thus far will run out of money and fall into arrears. It is realistic for councils to face up to and assess such challenges. What is delusional is expecting others to pick up the entire bill.


conservativehome--2020-04-21--Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: A diminution of our body politic at which the hairs on Rees-Mogg’s h

Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: A diminution of our body politic at which the hairs on Rees-Mogg’s head protested

What an eerie , echoing , unnatural sight the House of Commons presented .
This first sitting since Easter , and first to conform to the rules of social distancing , felt like , indeed was , a gross diminution of our body politic .
A mere handful of MPs were scattered at even intervals through the Chamber .
How one longed for the crowds , the noise , the mingled wit and hooliganism , the unpredictable temper , the risk for the great that they could be made to look like fools , the chance for the obscure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parliamentary occasion .
The Speaker , Sir Lindsay Hoyle , communicated an irreproachable conscientiousness as he announced in a hoarse and solemn tone that he would allow , in these “ exceptional and unprecedented circumstances ” , a motion to be taken without notice .
Jacob Rees-Mogg , the Leader of the House , rose to move the motion .
One could not help noticing the usually immaculate hair at the back of his head was sticking up in a manner reminiscent of one of Somerset ’ s most unruly haystacks .
His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shop during the lockdown , but here was an ominous portent , as if the very hairs on his head protested at what he was doing .
He sought to comfort the House by observing that things are not as bad as in 1349 , when the Black Death meant the parliamentary session was cancelled .
A few moments before , he had remarked with feeling that the Commons is not “ a frippery , a bauble on the British Constitution .
It is the British Constitution.
” But the Commons will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the most part virtually , members speaking to each other from screens , rather than across the same room , with a great loss of directness and spontaneity .
John Spellar ( Lab , Warley ) said the daily press conferences during the crisis are not “ getting to the heart of the issues ” , and it is the Commons which in normal times has the most sustained opportunities to scrutinise ministers and to extract answers from them .
Liam Fox ( Con , North Somerset ) remarked that “ the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers is the unknown supplementary question ” , not the previous , written question to which officials have had time to draft a safe reply .
The British people have submitted with sheep-like docility to the gross encroachments on our ancient liberties required by the lockdown , and so today did MPs .
But one trusts that within a short time , all will exclaim : “ Enough is enough !
”

What an eerie, echoing, unnatural sight the House of Commons presented. This first sitting since Easter, and first to conform to the rules of social distancing, felt like, indeed was, a gross diminution of our body politic.
A mere handful of MPs were scattered at even intervals through the Chamber. How one longed for the crowds, the noise, the mingled wit and hooliganism, the unpredictable temper, the risk for the great that they could be made to look like fools, the chance for the obscure to shine, which should attend a significant parliamentary occasion.
The Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, communicated an irreproachable conscientiousness as he announced in a hoarse and solemn tone that he would allow, in these “exceptional and unprecedented circumstances”, a motion to be taken without notice.
Jacob Rees-Mogg, the Leader of the House, rose to move the motion. One could not help noticing the usually immaculate hair at the back of his head was sticking up in a manner reminiscent of one of Somerset’s most unruly haystacks.
His barber must been forced to shut up shop during the lockdown, but here was an ominous portent, as if the very hairs on his head protested at what he was doing.
He sought to comfort the House by observing that things are not as bad as in 1349, when the Black Death meant the parliamentary session was cancelled.
A few moments before, he had remarked with feeling that the Commons is not “a frippery, a bauble on the British Constitution. It is the British Constitution.”
But the Commons will have, during the lockdown, to operate for the most part virtually, members speaking to each other from screens, rather than across the same room, with a great loss of directness and spontaneity.
John Spellar (Lab, Warley) said the daily press conferences during the crisis are not “getting to the heart of the issues”, and it is the Commons which in normal times has the most sustained opportunities to scrutinise ministers and to extract answers from them.
Liam Fox (Con, North Somerset) remarked that “the only thing that brings any fear to ministers is the unknown supplementary question”, not the previous, written question to which officials have had time to draft a safe reply.
The British people have submitted with sheep-like docility to the gross encroachments on our ancient liberties required by the lockdown, and so today did MPs. But one trusts that within a short time, all will exclaim: “Enough is enough!”


conservativehome--2020-04-21--WATCH: “While the new digital Parliament may not be perfect… we must not let the perfect be the enem

WATCH: “While the new digital Parliament may not be perfect… we must not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.”

“ While the new digital Parliament may not be perfect… we must not let the perfect be the enemy of @ @ @ @ @ Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg

“While the new digital Parliament may not be perfect… we must not let the perfect be the enemy of the good,” says Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg
Follow live updates: https://t.co/RgHXU2PuEO pic.twitter.com/2Lmw5eTSLF
— BBC Politics (@BBCPolitics) April 21, 2020


conservativehome--2020-04-21--WATCH: “The House is meeting today in extraordinary and unprecedented circumstances”. The Speaker’s

WATCH: “The House is meeting today in extraordinary and unprecedented circumstances”. The Speaker’s statement.

`` The House is meeting today in exceptional and unprecedented circumstances '' Sir Lindsay Hoyle starts proceedings in an unusually @ @ @ @ @ some MPs return to Westminster

"The House is meeting today in exceptional and unprecedented circumstances"
Sir Lindsay Hoyle starts proceedings in an unusually quiet House of Commons as some MPs return to Westminster
Follow live updates: https://t.co/RgHXU2PuEO pic.twitter.com/MbXdh7ZPsB
— BBC Politics (@BBCPolitics) April 21, 2020


conservativehome--2020-04-22--Calling Conservatives: New public appointments announced. Chief Executive of the Financial Conduct A


conservativehome--2020-04-22--Over a billion PPE items isn’t “shambolic”. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer was right. We need a mo

Over a billion PPE items isn’t “shambolic”. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer was right. We need a more adult conversation about PPE.

From the start of the Coronavirus crisis , critics of Boris Johnson have done everything they can to exaggerate and amplify any potential shortfalls in the UK ’ s strategy – to make the Government look as bad as possible .
The latest battle is around personal protective equipment ( PPE ) , which Ministers are under enormous pressure to obtain .
Bill Esterson , the Labour MP , called the Government ’ s approach to obtaining it “ shambolic “ , and the media has not been particularly polite either .
On Monday Hugh Pym , the BBC ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were “ ashamed ” about the lack of supply for NHS workers .
The consistently hyperbolic tone of PPE questions at daily briefings arguably tipped Dr Jenny Harries , the Deputy Chief Medical Officer , over the edge on Sunday .
She told reporters that we need to have a “ more adult and detailed conversation ” on PPE .
Harries is right .
Throughout the Coronavirus crisis , what ’ s been disappointing is the infantile way in which this pandemic has been treated .
From medical equipment , to herd immunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been reduced and given no nuance – in order to frame Governmental decisions as simply “ good ” or “ bad ” .
Yes , it ’ s true that many doctors , nurses and care staff are crying out for more PPE – and the Government and NHS must work as fast as possible to sort it out .
But there are also huge complexities to the situation , which are left out of the media narrative .
Far from being “ shambolic ” , the UK has moved mountains around PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the NHS between February 25 and April 18 ( 53 days ) .
The problem the country has , along with many others , ( which strangely never make it into debates on shortfalls ) is that global demand outpaces this .
It has been astronomical .
Furthermore , this demand is fragmented – and can not be neatly dealt with .
PPE is an umbrella term that describes all sorts of separate products , such as masks , aprons , gowns , gloves , body bags , pulse oximeters , swabs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cleaning equipment .
The production of each of these involves different processes , supply chains , some of them have shorter expiry dates than others , and so forth , and the demand for these varies too .
One need only examine data from Lincolnshire Hospital Trust ( covering three hospitals ) to see big variations in how PPE is needed .
Figures released by Matt Warman , the MP for Boston and Skegness , showed that 39,500 surgical masks per day were used , along with 11,495 gloves , 1,501 gowns and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have now started to calculate daily usage rates for PPE , versus stock levels , and it appears that gowns are the most in demand .
Conversely , in some cases , supply might actually outstrip demand – for instance , 470 million pairs of gloves have been shipped ( compared to 1.2 million gowns ) , forming the bulk of supplies – but there is no evidence that half of demand is for gloves .
Demand will also vary according to what part of the UK needs it , with some areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The interplay of these factors needs to be appreciated .
There will be other considerations in due course , as to the UK ’ s relationship with PPE .
One fact about our shortages is that they show the downsides of globalisation , which has advanced our economy in enormous ways – but ultimately means we are at the mercy of other countries ’ manufacturing chains and decisions , in regards to how quickly we get equipment .
Right now , our reliance on global supply networks not only means equipment is slower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but that there is the potential for other governments to be uncooperative , depending on their own needs .
Take what ’ s happening with Turkey .
The British Government has been called an “ embarrassment ” for not getting 400,000 protective gowns from the country ( which would only last three days , incidentally , for all the newspaper hysteria around it ) .
But it actually seems Turkey is to blame for what ’ s happened .
Not least because Italy , Spain and Belgium have all had similar hold-ups from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministry has even filed a criminal complaint after delays in receiving masks from Turkish companies .
Don ’ t hold your breath for any condemnation from our media , though… Similarly , our reliance on China – where the UK has bought PPE , such as fluid-repellent non-woven gowns – looks less and less desirable , for lots of reasons .
One area causing concern is that the country has introduced tighter customs inspections on exports – ostensibly for quality control , but some suspect these are actually designed to slow down how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case it has a second wave of the crisis ) .
Some , of course , have criticised the UK for not building enough of its own PPE .
Yesterday , The Daily Telegraph reports that millions of PPE , such as masks and respirators , had been shipped from Britain to Europe – in news that has angered many .
One explanation for this is that the World Health Organisation declared the virus a global pandemic on March 11 – and that was when ( largely ) unaffected countries , like ours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up emergency efforts , such as obtaining PPE .
All the while Italy and other countries had experienced COVID-19 , and filed their orders for more equipment – and had bought from the UK .
Even so , the UK ultimately has to accept its own part in the globalisation bargain .
It is reasonable for other countries to be able to purchase equipment from us , and may be damaging to limit exports .
If there ’ s anything the Government could improve on , two main steps come to mind .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible of its expectations of NHS workers , who are put in the worst situations – should they not have sufficient PPE , and have to choose whether to help a patient , putting their life at risk – or step back for their own protection .
Public Health England has made guidelines available around these scenarios , and they should be conveyed as widely as possible .
There are also clearly UK organisations that would like to be involved in producing PPE for the pandemic .
Esterson , the aforementioned Labour MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a constituent who had offered to make “ 10 million masks ” .
The Government has said its investigating 159 potential manufacturers .
Additionally , it has recruited the former Olympics chief to deal for help with PPE , who will hopefully be keen to enrol many new providers .
The nation clearly has untapped potential to produce more PPE .
The short-term question is how the Government can quickly mobilise these resources .
The longer-term question is what our desperate calls for PPE from abroad will mean , in the future , @ @ @ @

From the start of the Coronavirus crisis, critics of Boris Johnson have done everything they can to exaggerate and amplify any potential shortfalls in the UK’s strategy – to make the Government look as bad as possible.
The latest battle is around personal protective equipment (PPE), which Ministers are under enormous pressure to obtain.
Bill Esterson, the Labour MP, called the Government’s approach to obtaining it “shambolic“, and the media has not been particularly polite either. On Monday Hugh Pym, the BBC’s Health Editor, asked whether MPs were “ashamed” about the lack of supply for NHS workers.
The consistently hyperbolic tone of PPE questions at daily briefings arguably tipped Dr Jenny Harries, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, over the edge on Sunday. She told reporters that we need to have a “more adult and detailed conversation” on PPE.
Harries is right. Throughout the Coronavirus crisis, what’s been disappointing is the infantile way in which this pandemic has been treated. From medical equipment, to herd immunity, to data collection, everything has been reduced and given no nuance – in order to frame Governmental decisions as simply “good” or “bad”.
Yes, it’s true that many doctors, nurses and care staff are crying out for more PPE – and the Government and NHS must work as fast as possible to sort it out. But there are also huge complexities to the situation, which are left out of the media narrative.
Far from being “shambolic”, the UK has moved mountains around PPE, with over a billion items delivered to the NHS between February 25 and April 18 (53 days). The problem the country has, along with many others, (which strangely never make it into debates on shortfalls) is that global demand outpaces this. It has been astronomical.
Furthermore, this demand is fragmented – and cannot be neatly dealt with. PPE is an umbrella term that describes all sorts of separate products, such as masks, aprons, gowns, gloves, body bags, pulse oximeters, swabs, clinical waste containers, detergent and cleaning equipment. The production of each of these involves different processes, supply chains, some of them have shorter expiry dates than others, and so forth, and the demand for these varies too.
One need only examine data from Lincolnshire Hospital Trust (covering three hospitals) to see big variations in how PPE is needed. Figures released by Matt Warman, the MP for Boston and Skegness, showed that 39,500 surgical masks per day were used, along with 11,495 gloves, 1,501 gowns and 4,201 highly-protective FFP3 respirator masks.
Trusts have now started to calculate daily usage rates for PPE, versus stock levels, and it appears that gowns are the most in demand. Conversely, in some cases, supply might actually outstrip demand – for instance, 470 million pairs of gloves have been shipped (compared to 1.2 million gowns), forming the bulk of supplies – but there is no evidence that half of demand is for gloves. Demand will also vary according to what part of the UK needs it, with some areas more affected by Coronavirus than others. The interplay of these factors needs to be appreciated.
There will be other considerations in due course, as to the UK’s relationship with PPE. One fact about our shortages is that they show the downsides of globalisation, which has advanced our economy in enormous ways – but ultimately means we are at the mercy of other countries’ manufacturing chains and decisions, in regards to how quickly we get equipment.
Right now, our reliance on global supply networks not only means equipment is slower to arrive with big transport costs, but that there is the potential for other governments to be uncooperative, depending on their own needs.
Take what’s happening with Turkey. The British Government has been called an “embarrassment” for not getting 400,000 protective gowns from the country (which would only last three days, incidentally, for all the newspaper hysteria around it).
But it actually seems Turkey is to blame for what’s happened. Not least because Italy, Spain and Belgium have all had similar hold-ups from the country. Belgium’s health ministry has even filed a criminal complaint after delays in receiving masks from Turkish companies. Don’t hold your breath for any condemnation from our media, though…
Similarly, our reliance on China – where the UK has bought PPE, such as fluid-repellent non-woven gowns – looks less and less desirable, for lots of reasons. One area causing concern is that the country has introduced tighter customs inspections on exports – ostensibly for quality control, but some suspect these are actually designed to slow down how quickly it can ship stock (in case it has a second wave of the crisis).
Some, of course, have criticised the UK for not building enough of its own PPE. Yesterday, The Daily Telegraph reports that millions of PPE, such as masks and respirators, had been shipped from Britain to Europe – in news that has angered many.
One explanation for this is that the World Health Organisation declared the virus a global pandemic on March 11 – and that was when (largely) unaffected countries, like ours, had the signal to massively step up emergency efforts, such as obtaining PPE. All the while Italy and other countries had experienced COVID-19, and filed their orders for more equipment – and had bought from the UK.
Even so, the UK ultimately has to accept its own part in the globalisation bargain. It is reasonable for other countries to be able to purchase equipment from us, and may be damaging to limit exports.
If there’s anything the Government could improve on, two main steps come to mind.
The first is being as clear as possible of its expectations of NHS workers, who are put in the worst situations – should they not have sufficient PPE, and have to choose whether to help a patient, putting their life at risk – or step back for their own protection.
Public Health England has made guidelines available around these scenarios, and they should be conveyed as widely as possible.
There are also clearly UK organisations that would like to be involved in producing PPE for the pandemic. Esterson, the aforementioned Labour MP’s, Twitter post brought up a constituent who had offered to make “10 million masks”. The Government has said its investigating 159 potential manufacturers. Additionally, it has recruited the former Olympics chief to deal for help with PPE, who will hopefully be keen to enrol many new providers.
The nation clearly has untapped potential to produce more PPE. The short-term question is how the Government can quickly mobilise these resources. The longer-term question is what our desperate calls for PPE from abroad will mean, in the future, for British industry.


Coronavirus Count

UK cumulative total of lab-confirmed cases : 129,044 ( Up from 124,743 ) .
UK cumulative total of COVID-19 associated UK deaths in hospital : 17,337 ( Up from 16,509 ) .
Latest daily number of lab-confirmed UK cases : 4,301 ( Down from 4,676 ) .
Latest daily number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths in hospital : 828 ( Up from 449 ) .
From the Government ’ s website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
DAILY NUMBER OF COVID-19 ASSOCIATED DEATHS IN HOSPITAL From the Government ’ s website Number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK .
ConHome note April 14 : Public Health England has changed its presentation of the data to make it clear that the UK cumulative and daily totals of cases are of lab-confirmed figures , and that the cumulative and daily totals of deaths exclude those outside hospitals ( i.e : in care homes ) .
It has also separated out its graph info for cases and deaths .
We will reproduce the daily figures rather than cumulative ones .
“ The risk to the UK has been raised to high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
GOVERNMENT RULES ON STAYING AT HOME AND AWAY FROM OTHERS See here .
Published on Monday March 23 .
GUIDANCE : FURTHER BUSINESSES AND PREMISES TO CLOSE See here .
Published on Monday March 23 .
HOW EVERYONE CAN HELP STOP THE CORONAVIRUS ( SOCIAL DISTANCING ) See here .
Republished on Monday March 23 .
STAY AT HOME IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE CORONAVIRUS ( SELF-DISTANCING ) See here .
Republished on Monday March 23 .
See here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR WORKERS ON WHAT AND HOW THEY CAN CLAIM See here .
Published on Friday March 20 .
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR LANDLORDS , TENANTS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES NEW See here .
Published on Saturday March 28 .
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON WHAT THE CORONAVIRUS BILL WILL DO See here .
Published on Wednesday March 18 HOW TO AVOID CATCHING OR SPREADING CORONAVIRUS • Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds .
• Always wash your hands when you get home or into work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soap and water are not available .
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve ( not your hands ) when you cough or sneeze .
• Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards .
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell .
The symptoms of coronavirus are : However , these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness .
The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common , such as cold and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do .
Use this service if : • You think you might have coronavirus .
• In the last 14 days you ’ ve been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers .
• You ’ ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus .
• In Scotland call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours .
• In Wales call 111 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 0845 46 47 .
• Do not go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital .
• What the coronavirus is , how it ’ s spread and how to avoid catching it – Government NHS website overview .
• Stay at home advice and how to manage self-isolation .
( All information taken from Government sources .
Updated as of 19.00 on Tuesday April 21st . )


conservativehome--2020-04-22--Robert Halfon: If we stay in this shutdown beyond the end of May, it won’t be a threat to our libert

Robert Halfon: If we stay in this shutdown beyond the end of May, it won’t be a threat to our liberty, but the safeguarding of our lives

Robert Halfon is MP for Harlow , a former Conservative Party Deputy Chairman , Chair of the Education Select Committee and President of Conservative Workers and Trade Unionists .
The first Parliamentary Committee I ever sat on was the 2010 Public Bill Committee that repealed the plans for Identity Cards by the previous Labour Government .
A copy of the Bill , with the signatures of all the Committee members , is framed on my wall at home .
In October of the same year , after launching a campaign against the questionable Google Street View mapping of our home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Commons urging action to be taken against ‘ the privatised surveillance society ’ .
All this is mentioned because I am no slouch when it comes to protecting our individual freedoms and privacy .
Like most Conservatives , rightly , we are always wary of the big state , the small fiefdoms or large multinationals interfering and monitoring every aspect of our lives .
However , when it comes to dealing with COVID-19 and the choice between potential life or liberty , I part company with libertarianism .
If a Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 200 people I have spoken to , for contact tracing and quarantine purposes , then I can not see what all the fuss is about .
If a Hancockian drone comes down through my window and watches me during my morning absolutions or observes how I make my very large , strong mug of coffee , I just don ’ t care – as long as it is helping combat the disease .
If police officers are shouting at people with loudhailers and disbanding picnickers in local parks , then , good !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be hailing them for doing their bit to stop the spread of coronavirus and , whilst we ’ re at it , thanking these officers for putting their own health and that of their families at risk every day , because of the actions of a few selfish people .
If we are required to stay in lockdown beyond the end of May , this is not a threat to our liberty , but the safeguarding of our lives .
By their very nature , these emergency measures will not be around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ esoteric intellectual arguments about freedom , let us revert to , arguably , the most cherished human value of all – the preservation of human mortality .
As the old Talmudic saying goes , “ whoever saves a single life saves the whole world ” , or perhaps put more simply as Opus once sang , way back in 1985 , “ Live is Life ” .
Some alarming figures this week from the respected Sutton Trust suggested two thirds of pupils have not participated in online learning .
Another survey from Teacher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) has said that 55 per cent of teachers in disadvantaged areas believe that the average pupil is learning less than an hour a day , whilst just two pe rcent of teachers from the same areas , think their pupils have adequate access to online learning .
In my own constituency of Harlow , one headteacher told me that up to 200 pupils are not online , and another that eight percent of his students were not not able to use the internet at home .
It is good that Gavin Williamson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for certain year groups .
There should also be a national “ Laptops for Learners ” campaign , encouraging businesses to donate unwanted laptops to schools and children .
However , the provision of laptops and mobile dongles requires getting them into the homes , set up and used – not always easy .
For this reason , whilst Coronavirus continues , we need a new kind of ‘ Broadcasting Education Channel ’ on our TV screens .
When the original Open University was established , the lectures were originally on television .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , could put all the education tools they have – whether it be their own , the DfE Oak Academy or Google Classroom – for broadcast for a few hours a day .
At least then , many of the children who don ’ t have access to online learning would be able to participate in some of the education being offered to their better off peers .
Four weeks at home so far and it is inevitable that unusual things start to happen .
On Sunday morning at about 4 AM , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweat .
It was not Coronavirus , but a strange dream about a senior MP in her prime .
She had decided to run against the Speaker and was asking me to support her campaign .
I drift back to sleep and all I can remember is more of the MP and the Carlton Club ( nothing untoward ) .
I ’ ve given her a lift there a few times , so it must have been in my subconscious .
I should add that I have massive respect for the current Speaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the circumstances , and the MP in my dreams has absolutely no such intentions .
Perhaps I should not have eaten cheddar and crackers late the night before , whilst watching Star Wars : The Revenge of the Sith .
Later in the day , I get a message from a journalist who has seen a TV broadcast I did via Skype .
He asks why it is that the puppet , Sweep , is on the bookshelves behind me .
I explain that a crowning achievement of my childhood was attending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on stage , as they were my favourite puppets of the age .
Sweep has been strategically placed in front of some Hitler biographies , which unfortunately before his appearance , made the Twitterati very happy after a Newsnight interview a few weeks ago .
Apparently , I am in good company .
David Cameron also made the same mistake .
Rather than moving the books and upsetting my order , I thought this puppet would sweep away the Nazis and solve the problem nicely .

Robert Halfon is MP for Harlow, a former Conservative Party Deputy Chairman, Chair of the Education Select Committee and President of Conservative Workers and Trade Unionists.
Life of Liberty?
The first Parliamentary Committee I ever sat on was the 2010 Public Bill Committee that repealed the plans for Identity Cards by the previous Labour Government.
A copy of the Bill, with the signatures of all the Committee members, is framed on my wall at home. In October of the same year, after launching a campaign against the questionable Google Street View mapping of our home WiFi protocols, I initiated a debate in the Commons urging action to be taken against ‘the privatised surveillance society’.
All this is mentioned because I am no slouch when it comes to protecting our individual freedoms and privacy. Like most Conservatives, rightly, we are always wary of the big state, the small fiefdoms or large multinationals interfering and monitoring every aspect of our lives.
However, when it comes to dealing with COVID-19 and the choice between potential life or liberty, I part company with libertarianism.
If a Matt Hancockian app wants to monitor the last 200 people I have spoken to, for contact tracing and quarantine purposes, then I cannot see what all the fuss is about. If a Hancockian drone comes down through my window and watches me during my morning absolutions or observes how I make my very large, strong mug of coffee, I just don’t care – as long as it is helping combat the disease.
If police officers are shouting at people with loudhailers and disbanding picnickers in local parks, then, good! Far from criticising the police, we should be hailing them for doing their bit to stop the spread of coronavirus and, whilst we’re at it, thanking these officers for putting their own health and that of their families at risk every day, because of the actions of a few selfish people.
If we are required to stay in lockdown beyond the end of May, this is not a threat to our liberty, but the safeguarding of our lives.
By their very nature, these emergency measures will not be around forever. Rather than getting involved in esoteric intellectual arguments about freedom, let us revert to, arguably, the most cherished human value of all – the preservation of human mortality. As the old Talmudic saying goes, “whoever saves a single life saves the whole world”, or perhaps put more simply as Opus once sang, way back in 1985, “Live is Life”.
Time for a new Broadcasting Education Channel?
Some alarming figures this week from the respected Sutton Trust suggested two thirds of pupils have not participated in online learning.
Another survey from Teacher Tapp (the YouGov of educational polling) has said that 55 per cent of teachers in disadvantaged areas believe that the average pupil is learning less than an hour a day, whilst just two pe rcent of teachers from the same areas, think their pupils have adequate access to online learning.
In my own constituency of Harlow, one headteacher told me that up to 200 pupils are not online, and another that eight percent of his students were not not able to use the internet at home.
It is good that Gavin Williamson has announced free laptops and 4G modems for certain year groups. There should also be a national “Laptops for Learners” campaign, encouraging businesses to donate unwanted laptops to schools and children. However, the provision of laptops and mobile dongles requires getting them into the homes, set up and used – not always easy.
For this reason, whilst Coronavirus continues, we need a new kind of ‘Broadcasting Education Channel’ on our TV screens. When the original Open University was established, the lectures were originally on television.
BBC Two or CBBC, for example, could put all the education tools they have – whether it be their own, the DfE Oak Academy or Google Classroom – for broadcast for a few hours a day. At least then, many of the children who don’t have access to online learning would be able to participate in some of the education being offered to their better off peers.
Cabin Fever
Four weeks at home so far and it is inevitable that unusual things start to happen.
On Sunday morning at about 4 AM, I literally woke up in a cold sweat. It was not Coronavirus, but a strange dream about a senior MP in her prime. She had decided to run against the Speaker and was asking me to support her campaign.
I drift back to sleep and all I can remember is more of the MP and the Carlton Club (nothing untoward). I’ve given her a lift there a few times, so it must have been in my subconscious.
I should add that I have massive respect for the current Speaker, who is doing an extraordinary job under the circumstances, and the MP in my dreams has absolutely no such intentions. Perhaps I should not have eaten cheddar and crackers late the night before, whilst watching Star Wars: The Revenge of the Sith.
Later in the day, I get a message from a journalist who has seen a TV broadcast I did via Skype. He asks why it is that the puppet, Sweep, is on the bookshelves behind me.
I explain that a crowning achievement of my childhood was attending the Sooty and Sweep show, live on stage, as they were my favourite puppets of the age.
Sweep has been strategically placed in front of some Hitler biographies, which unfortunately before his appearance, made the Twitterati very happy after a Newsnight interview a few weeks ago. Apparently, I am in good company. David Cameron also made the same mistake.
Rather than moving the books and upsetting my order, I thought this puppet would sweep away the Nazis and solve the problem nicely.