Coronavirus crisis is an unprecented threat which is leaving the most vulnerable in our communities at risk

Alistair Cameron, Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Candidate for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire has described the Coronavirus crisis as an unprecedented threat which is leaving the most vulnerable in our communities at risk.

Alistair said: “We must support the efforts to keep people healthy and safe, and I have full confidence in both the UK and Welsh Chief Medical Officers. We must comply with the government’s instructions to stay at home and protect the NHS.

“Our priority is to protect the most vulnerable in our society. Shortages in the care workforce are already a problem. Care workers, teachers and NHS staff must be supported at the highest standards, including with clear guidance, financial aid, testing and personal protective equipment.

“The UK Government should extend the Brexit negotiations so all their focus can be on tackling this pandemic. We saw government step in to stabilise banks in 2008, but we have not seen the same urgency for the plight of the self-employed – many of whom work in the tourist industry and in farming.

“We need a package of immediate measures, including:

• Implement a Citizen’s Income through a boost to statutory sick pay, increased out of work benefit, a self-employment income guarantee and a subsidised salary scheme for workers.
• A three-month break on all business taxes to keep struggling business running and people in work.
• Turn day-one Universal Credit loans into grants immediately and guarantee anyone who is laid off receives at least 20 days of full pay, starting now.
• Provide full council tax relief for bands A to E for at least 6 months, with councils fully compensated for this loss of income.

Tourism in Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire is facing an abyss as a result of this crisis. We therefore need the UK and Welsh Government’s to work together to produce a plan which gives the maximum level of support to deal with the economic consequences of this crisis.”