Your coronavirus update from James Duddridge MP
3rd April 2020
#DontVisitSouthend
Anyone can catch coronavirus, and anyone can spread it. That’s why I’ve teamed up with Southend Borough Council and the tourism board to insist – don’t visit Southend during this pandemic!
It may be tempting to visit our coastline this time of year, especially when the weather is nice, but it is so important we all follow government instruction to stay at home.
By doing this, not only will you be protecting the NHS, but saving lives too. If you want to exercise outdoors, my advice is to do it as close to your home as possible.
Our beaches will still be here for you to enjoy when this is over.
Protecting our frontline NHS workers
Coronavirus is the biggest threat our country has faced in decades – and we are not alone. All over the world, we are seeing the devasting impact of this invisible killer.
At this moment of national emergency, it is the NHS staff, care workers and other medical professionals who are on the frontline of this fight.
I have been in regular contact with senior hospital staff and fellow ministers in Whitehall to make sure our local workforce has access to the appropriate safety equipment and I will continue to do so.
I’m pleased that in the past two weeks, 397 million pieces of personal protective equipment including surgical masks and gloves have already been delivered across the country with the help of Army personnel.
A new NHS-run personal protective equipment hotline has been set up, which allows healthcare organisations to place orders 24 hours a day too.
More information on the steps being taken to protect our frontline NHS workers can be found here.
MOT exemption for drivers
A reminder that if your vehicle was due for an MOT on or after 30th March 2020 – the expiry date has been extended by six months.
This extension happens automatically, and you do not need to do anything. However, you must keep your vehicle in a roadworthy condition.
Garages remain open for emergency repairs. Find out more here.
Get the help and support you need
Local help and support during this crisis remains available to those who need it. Useful local contacts and advice can be found on the links below:
Remember, government advice is regularly updated, you can find the most up-to-date coronavirus information at gov.uk/coronavirus.
Rainbows to help raise a smile
Finally, it is great to see households around our town raising the community spirit by displaying rainbows in their windows. Here is my family's creation!
Stay home and save lives.
Yours sincerely
James Duddridge MP
Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East.
