Ashfield MP knows first-hand the fears surrounding coronavirus

Sinead has underlying health problems after having a double lung transplant a few years ago and I feared that if she was to get this virus it would not end well.

We all know someone who has underlying health problems who could die if they catch this virus, which is why I am very disappointed to see a small minority of people ignoring the advice and therefore increasing the risk of the virus spreading.

We are not living in normal times and if you have not noticed anything different in your lives then you are obviously not paying attention to Government advice.

If we all do the right things, then we will save lives and keep our NHS functioning at safe levels.

New temporary emergency legislation has been introduced this week which will give the state extra powers to enforce measures much quicker to help fight this virus and stop the spread.

Last week the Chancellor introduced unprecedented new measures to protect jobs and wages.

The Government is asking businesses to look after employees by accessing the full range of grants and loans as needed in order to keep people on the payroll and continue to pay them through downturns and closures.

It is increasing benefits payments and deferring tax bills to keep money in everyone's pockets and picking up more of the tab for the rent.

Panic buying and emptying shelves is something that all of us MP's have been raising with Government all week.

I have also been speaking with supermarkets directly.

I pushed for special opening hours for the vulnerable and sick along with key workers such as NHS staff and I am pleased to see that supermarkets are helping out.

I am also pleased to see that new measures are being introduced to make sure our vulnerable residents get the medication they rely on and Government is working with local councils, the NHS and voluntary sector to ensure this happens.

If you know of anyone who needs extra support, then please contact me on 01623 550604 or email [email protected]

Lee Anderson is MP for Ashfield.