Should we be worried?
This is understandably a concerning time. However, if nearly 20 years of volunteering for St John Ambulance has taught me anything it is that one of the worst things you can do in any medical emergency is panic.
Despite distressing scenes elsewhere in the world (such as Italy, which has been particularly severely affected), this does not necessarily mean the same thing will happen in the UK - the BBC article on "Coronavirus: Three reasons why the UK might not look like Italy" is helpful for understanding why (5).
Community is one of the central principles of our party. It is our duty to behave responsibly and act with consideration towards the health and wellbeing of those around us.
There are many reasons to criticise the motivations and decision of Westminster government. However, at such times I firmly believe that policy makers do have the best interests of the population in mind.
Our party has always championed evidence based politics. I would therefore ask at this time that you play your part in preventing the spread of disinformation, take steps to reduce the spread of the infection (particularly to more vulnerable members of society) and follow the guidance of the Department for Health and Social Care and Public Health England (6).
Thank you all in advance for your cooperation and support. I hope to see you at future events.
Best wishes,

Chris Whitwood
Yorkshire Party Leader
|