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MY WEEKLY UPDATE
[3]
John, despite the government finally publishing the
PHE review into disproportionate BAME deaths from Covid-19, this week we
learnt that the government blocked the release of the review's
recommendations. Recommendations and evidence from 4,000 individuals and
organisations that could help save Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic lives
during this crisis. We simply cannot afford to wait any longer for action.
That's why Keir Starmer, Leader of the Labour Party has tasked social
justice campaigner Baroness Doreen Lawrence with leading a review into the
impact of Covid-19 on BAME communities. Through the review they will look
to understand the key socio-economic and structural factors, present
tangible recommendations and press for immediate and long term action to
protect BAME people, so that these inequalities can be addressed and lives
saved.
Doreen Lawrence is also working closely with Marsha De Cordova, Labour's
Shadow Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, to amplify the voices
of all BAME communities affected by this virus. They have been listening to
community groups, experts, representative bodies in order to present
findings and recommendations to the government and any other relevant
bodies.
The review is looking to:
1. Gather data or case studies on the impact of Covid-19 on BAME
communities
2. Understand the range of factors behind the disproportionate impact
3. Review the response from government, local government, third sector and
faith communities
4. Gather recommendations on the protection and support for the most
affected communities as lockdown eases
5. Gather recommendations for reducing health inequalities
If you would like to send a submission, please email
[email protected]. Written submissions are also being accepted. You
can also send a submission by following the link below.
CONTRIBUTE TO BAME REVIEW [4]
JOINT STATEMENT FROM BIRMINGHAM MPS
I have joined Birmingham MPs in issuing a cross-party statement in response
to the Black Lives Matter protests in Birmingham, across the country and
around the world. We are committed to engaging with and listening to the
black communities we represent to help bring about meaningful, lasting
change in the city.
ITV CENTRAL
NEW RULES ON HMOS INTRODUCED
Birmingham City Council introduced a city-wide Article 4 Direction on
Monday, meaning that any developers looking to turn properties into Houses
in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for between three and six people will have to
apply for planning permission.
This is a welcome step that will help address many of the issues
constituents have raised with me over the years about badly managed local
HMOs. Constituents have reported increases in crime, anti-social behaviour,
littering, parking problems and lack of community cohesion linked with the
transient nature of many of the tenancies.
Click below for more information about the new city-wide direction.
ARTICLE 4 DIRECTION [5]
FACE COVERINGS ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT
From Monday, face coverings will be mandatory on all public transport in
England.
Two months ago, Labour backed the Mayor of London’s call for face
coverings on public transport to be made compulsory. It is disappointing
that it is only now that Tory Ministers are acting.
The government's guidance remains to work from home if you can and avoid
public transport where possible. Where travel is essential and walking,
cycling or driving is not an option, face coverings on public transport
will be required.
Face coverings can be made from home from a variety of items you can find
around the house.
The government recommends a cloth face covering that covers your mouth and
nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably. It can be as simple as a
scarf or bandana that ties behind the head.
Click below for more information on how to make your own face covering.
HOW TO MAKE A FACE COVERING [6]
BIRMINGHAM COMMONWEALTH GAMES BILL
The Birmingham Commonwealth Games Bill returned to Parliament yesterday.
The Games are a really exciting opportunity for the city, but there are of
course concerns about the amount that Birmingham City Council is being
required to contribute and the additional pressure that visitors will put
on services.
That's why I was pleased to support the 'Local Commonwealth Games levy'
amendment which would have helped local councils raise additional revenue
to offset the financial pressures of hosting the Games.
Our Shadow Mayor of the West Midlands, Liam Byrne, and other West Midlands
Labour colleagues made an impassioned case for this amendment and our
amendment to let the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee become an
accredited Real Living Wage Employer. Unfortunately, both amendments were
refused by Tory ministers.
You can watch my contribution to the Commonwealth Games debate earlier this
year, by clicking below.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES BILL - MARCH 2020 [7]
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT NEWS
EQUITABLE ACCESS TO COVID-19 VACCINE
Any Covid-19 vaccine must be seen as a global public good. In the interest
of global public health, developed nations leading on the production of a
vaccine must ensure fair, open and equal access and guarantee affordability
for all.
Click below to watch my first question on this issue in DfID orals on
Wednesday.
FIRST QUESTION DFID ORALS [8]
COVID-19 VACCINE DEVELOPMENT
I used my second question to urge the Secretary of State to commit to
attaching clear, transparent conditions on British taxpayers' money to
accelerate vaccine development, and guarantee truly equitable access to
vaccines based on need, not on how deep your pockets are.
Click below to watch the exchange.
SECOND QUESTION DFID ORALS [9]
© 2020 Printed from an email sent by Preet Kaur Gill. Promoted by A.J Webb
on behalf of Preet Kaur Gill, both at 56 Wentworth Road, B17 9TA.
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