Politicians shut offices as precaution

Rutherglen MP Margaret Ferrier has closed her office as a precaution against coronavirus.

Ms Ferrier, elected in December, made the decision as cases of the illness escalated.

She said: ”Following new public health advice regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, I have decided to restructure the way my office will work.

“No-one in my office has contracted COVID-19, however I have decided as a precautionary measure, to support the welfare of my staff and my constituents, to close my temporary constituency office in Rutherglen until further notice.

“My office team will be working from home and will be available to assist constituents who have already raised issues with us or who need my help.

“During this period, please contact me by email to Margaret. ferrier.mp@parliament.uk or by phone to 07562288713

“I would like to thank my constituents for their patience and understanding during this challenging period.”

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey soon followed suit and announced her office closure too.

She said:“Due to the updated public health advice announced by the Scottish and UK governments, I have taken the decision to close my constituency office and all surgeries will be suspended.

“This is not a step I have taken lightly, and it is based upon the medical advice which is asking people to work from home when possible. This is in the interests of both public and staff safety.

“My office is able to work remotely and we will continue to have access to emails, our casework system, and the landline number will divert to staff.

“For the foreseeable, please contact me on clare.haughey. msp@parliament.scot or 0141 561 5131. I thank everyone for their understanding during this uncertain time, and I’ll ensure I keep my constituents updated on any future office arrangements.”