Consistent and clear messaging is needed

WHAT a topsy-turvy world we live in these days! First euphoria, with the vaccination being given the OK. Within 10 days the Prime Minister becomes a modern-day Grinch. After denying he would at first, he cancelled Christmas at the last minute. A new strain of the virus, 70% more infectious than the original, has seen the Government’s strategy shift over the Christmas period.

All through this pandemic we have seen the Government chop and change at the last minute. One day “eat out to help out” and get the students back to uni. Then, all of a sudden, screaming brakes and gears in reverse, “stay put and don’t go out”.

Of course it was great to hear about the vaccine but the reality is that it is going to take months before we see anything like “herd immunity”.

The winter months were always going to be the most difficult. Unlike most of us, this virus isn’t going to take a break over the holidays.

The virus is mutating so even countries like South Korea, held aloft as a shining example in their dealing with the pandemic, are now facing their third lockdown after infection rates and deaths have surged.

In the UK, we are now going into a third lockdown with no real end date in sight.

What we really need from this Government is clear and consistent messaging. The Government has a responsibility to act consistently and fairly to have any chance of regaining the confidence of the public.

Coun Cath Davis, Preston Ward, North Tyneside Council