There is no doubt the measures the Government has undertaken and the restrictions imposed have changed all of our lives over the last few weeks and sadly they will have to continue for some time yet.

Snap polling undertaken by YouGov after the Boris Johnson’s address to the nation showed overwhelming support for the new rules being imposed with 93% of respondents being strongly or somewhat in favour of the action.

GOV.UK GUIDANCE

FURTHER BUSINESSES AND PREMISES TO CLOSE

It’s hard to remember the great sense of optimism with which we started 2020. By the end of January there were two confirmed cases of coronavirus or COVID-19 in this country.

Issues relating to the coronavirus are now affecting many areas of Government and decision making across the world.

This week it feels we have entered a new phase of facing reality with the coronavirus. What was a threat from overseas is now in our country and the number of cases will rise, but hopefully can be controlled.

Like many aspects of the House of Commons, the way its business is scheduled is steeped in convention and not always very practical.

Marcus is pictured with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson

Marcus is pictured with Secretary of State for International Trade, Liz Truss

January can be a month when people and businesses face some tough challenges and I know that there are some concerns about our town centres. Our shops are facing huge pressure from internet competition and empty retail units can dent the attractiveness of an area.