Aylesbury's MP reluctantly voted for new lockdown
Rob Butler says he's campaigning for better support for the self-employed.
Aylesbury's MP says he never wanted a second lockdown, but the big spike in cases here means it has to happen.
Rob Butler says he 'reluctantly' voted the new measures through.
The MP was due to speak in the House of Commons as the new rules were debated yesterday, but time ran out.
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Mr. Butler told us he felt it was important to still share his views:
“In recent weeks and months, the people of the Aylesbury constituency have made huge sacrifices to try to combat the coronavirus crisis, and I want to take this opportunity to thank them publicly for all they've done.
“Aylesbury Vale has thus far managed to stay in Tier 1, but sadly the local infection rates have been increasing extremely rapidly and a move to Tier 2 this week was all but inevitable. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer has said several times that hospitalizations are then "baked in".
“But let me emphasise that our local NHS Trust is doing a truly amazing job of coping with the extraordinary demands of coronavirus. Capacity has been carefully managed and the compassion and dedication I've witnessed has been humbling - of course by those on the front line, the doctors, nurses, porters and cleaners, but also by the senior management from the Chief Executive down."
Rob said that for now, there is no alternative but to introduce tougher measures and that was why he voted for them.
He added:
“A national lockdown carries extremely heavy consequences locally.
"I've had many emails from constituents who are desperately worried about today's moves. I understand and indeed share their concerns.
"I am especially troubled by the impact of the closure of gyms, golf courses and churches – ways in which people maintain their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
“Nonetheless, I am absolutely confident that the people of my constituency will comply with these regulations in the national interest."
But the MP is calling for more support for the self-employed this time round and is calling for places of worship and gyms to be allowed to stay open.
He told us:
"There also needs to be a change of emphasis towards the directors of small limited companies - they need to be seen for what they are - entrepreneurs who’ve taken a risk with their own money to create opportunities and jobs for others, contributing to the economy and paying taxes along the way. They deserve not just financial help but also respect.
“And I pay tribute to those who will continue to go out to work, especially in schools and other key roles.
“I hope fervently, desperately, passionately that this is the last time we are asked to vote for such drastic measures. We must all play our part to ensure that it is, for the sake of our economy, our livelihoods, our mental health, our liberty and our democracy.”