Nothing ‘draconian’ about being sensible

IN taking another swipe at my views on the way in which the Government has handled the pandemic Neil Stafford (‘’No justification now for all the restrictions’’ Opinion, 22nd June) gives a selective account.

He mentions that 60 MPS voted against extending the restrictions to July 19, who I feel are irresponsible and out of touch. But no mention of the 489 MPS that voted for the extension. Fortunately, they understood that we have a present and fast-moving situation.

Neil attempts to score a further point by referring to the Delta variant reaching Australia even though they apparently have (his words) ‘’draconian restrictions’.’

But no mention of their low Delta numbers compared to ours or indeed of their and other nations low number of deaths since the start.

He says that we have to learn to live with the virus and not with face masks and social distancing. On my recent trip to the Victoria Centre (alas the market cafes and most of the stalls were closed or gone) everyone there seemed compliant which made, I suggest, for a safer environment. I did not go on a tram to find out.

So, Neil what is so wrong in these sensible health precautions, at least until we are all double vaccinated? Perhaps he views the humble face mask as draconian and ruining the economy?

When I was working in Africa, I often used a mosquito net and covered my arms up in the evening. I did not just give in to malaria.

We should not do so over Covid and long Covid.

Contrary to what Neil says - with the Delta variant and increase in cases there is every justification.

Of course, we should not be in this mess but all that and more will no doubt be a matter for the future inquiry into the pandemic.

Mark Iles

Newark