What does Eastbourne MP think of the road map out of lockdown?

Caroline Ansell said there is plenty of debate around the plans of coming out of lockdown which were announced to the country last week (February 22).

She said, “I have asked local people and most are happy with the caution and clarity the statement gave. There are dates to work to and clear tests to be met before we get back to normality on June 21.

“Of course, there is also frustration about how long it will take to open some parts of the hospitality industry here in Eastbourne, in particular pubs and restaurants, and I understand this completely.”

Mrs Ansell said it is ‘really important’ that the current government support in place continues.

She said the main thing about coming out of lockdown is that it ‘must be irreversible’.

Mrs Ansell said, “We cannot go into another lockdown. That will be far more ruinous than waiting a few more weeks for normality via low infection rates. Ruinous for businesses forced to close again and ruinous for everyone who is struggling with their mental health problems, loneliness and their education.”

Despite the vaccine rollout giving people hope for the return to normality, she said we still need to get the infection rates down.

Mrs Ansell called it an ‘early bright part’ of the road map that schools will be open on March 8.

She said, “The concerns about children falling behind are rightly widespread and I very much share them. I welcome the government earmarking a further £400 million for summer holiday catch up for pupils.”