I've had this useless but predictable reply from my Tory yes man mp, obviously a standard reply sent by a minion
Thank you for your email regarding Dominic Cummings.
I have received many emails from constituents relating to Mr Cummings and his recent actions. These emails have contained a very wide range of views and opinions.
On 25th May, Dominic Cummings set out his account of what happened between 27th March and 14th April. He made it clear that he believes he did not flout social distancing rules at any point and he explained that he was concerned that he and his wife would not be able to look after their young son if they were about to be badly affected by Coronavirus - and therefore they drove to Durham to be near his family.
At a Downing Street press conference on 24th March, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jenny Harries, said parents who are ill and may not be able to look after a child created ‘exceptional circumstances’ where family members could be called upon to help.
Clearly Mr Cummings believes that his circumstances were exceptional and he does not believe he broke the Government’s guidelines.
While I and others may accept this interpretation, I recognise that many others may not. Some constituents have said that while they appreciate there is an element of personal judgement involved, they expect a higher bar for members of the government.
Many individuals and families have made huge personal sacrifices during the lockdown and I can understand the anger and frustration of people who believe others may not have also made such sacrifices.
The Government has endeavoured throughout the Coronavirus crisis to be transparent, clear and consistent about the rules. But I do understand that in some specific circumstances, decisions are sometimes subject to an element of personal judgement - especially when family are involved – and others may disagree with that judgement.
We have all made difficult decisions in this period and as we move out of lockdown it will become even more important to use good judgement and common sense to help control the virus and protect each other.
We must focus our efforts on the many challenges we still face. We must continue to fight the virus, prepare for the easing of measures at a safe pace, and restart the economy to provide families with economic security – and that is what I shall be working on.
Thank you again for contacting me on this matter.