MP defends lack of facemask on tour of parcel warehouse
A CORNISH MP has defended himself after being bombarded with criticism for posing for photos without a mask during a visit to a distribution centre.
St Austell and Newquay Conservative Steve Double visited the DPD distribution centre at Victoria, near Roche, and posted pictures on his Facebook page.
He wrote: “I visited the DPD distribution centre at Victoria. It was great to have a tour, meet some or the staff and get an understanding of the incredible operation of this place that delivers packages across the whole of Cornwall and listen to their plans for the future.
“During the pandemic they have seen a huge increase in the number of packages they handle every day and delivery services like these have been a vital lifeline to many.”
Attached to the post were a number of pictures showing Mr Double stood around with employees and, although he appears to be two metres away from others at all times, the MP was not wearing a mask.
His post was immediately swamped with criticism for not wearing a mask, to which he responded.
He wrote: “For all you commenting on the lack of masks, I asked the management if I needed to put one on and they said their policy was they were not needed in the warehouse – it’s huge and with all the doors open it is not a confined space.
“It’s up to business to risk assess and set the policy for their work place – not me.”
The response did not wash with many, with Sophie Blatchford replying: “Yes, but surely as an MP in your position you should be setting an example.”