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July has been another interesting month, as the country tries to get to grips with the evolving challenges of Covid19, while keeping our economy afloat. We’ve seen a whirlwind of activity, lockdown restrictions easing in some areas, new measures coming in and lots of announcements from Parliament.
This month, our 'Stay Alert' level ([link removed]) downgraded from Level 4 to Level 3 and many businesses have been able to open their doors as long as they are COVID-19 secure. However, the Prime Minister announced that further easing of coronavirus restrictions - due to come in this weekend - has been postponed for at least two weeks.
Which Businesses & Venues Can Reopen? ([link removed])
The Prime Minister's Latest Statement. ([link removed])

From 24th July, it's been mandatory for face coverings to be worn in shops, supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, banks, building societies & post offices as well as on public transport and in transport hubs.

You are also strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing is difficult.

There are a number of exemptions such as children under the age of 11, those with a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability and more.

From 8 August, the rules on face coverings will be extended to other indoor settings where you're likely to come into contact with people you do not normally meet such as museums, galleries, cinemas and places of worship.
Where do I need to wear a face covering? ([link removed])
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering? ([link removed])

To see how Gosport businesses were fairing post lockdown as constituents adjusted to the face covering change, I visited a few of our brilliant independent businesses in Brockhurst Road. It was also a good opportunity to promote the Best Small Shop ([link removed]) competition. It was great so many of our wonderful local independent traders are back open for businesses and Covid-19 Secure!

I also hosted a Gosport Google Digital Marketing Strategy event this month where I spoke to local businesses about the impact of Covid-19 and the next steps as we get our economy moving again!

This was also a great opportunity for our local businesses to receive some training from the Google Digital Garage.
Another way to support our local business is to take part in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. This scheme which starts on 3 August gives customers the chance to get 50% off food and soft drinks up to £10 per person between Monday and Wednesday for the whole of August and we have numerous local eateries taking part.
Which local restaurants are taking part in the scheme? ([link removed])
Another fantastic announcement this month is an additional £549,991 for Hampshire Constabulary as part of the Government’s Safer Streets Fund. The extra funding will be aimed at improving security in areas particularly affected by crimes such as burglary, vehicle theft and robbery.

I am sure you will agree that our public sector workers have gone above and beyond throughout this crisis, this month it was announced that 900 000 public sector workers, from doctors to Armed Forces personnel, will benefit from a pay rise. Doctors and teachers will see the biggest pay rise, estimated to affect 519 000 workers, but the increase will also benefit police and prison officers, dentists, senior military and senior civil servants, those working in the judiciary and the National Crime Agency.

[link removed]

This month also saw the NHS' Birthday which was marked by a country-wide clap, this has been the most challenging year in the 72 year history of the NHS and has demonstrated the commitment and incredible strength of our workers and the lifesaving work they do.

The NHS Parliamentary Awards has also reopened giving us the opportunity to thank an individual, or whole team, out of the 1.3 million-strong army of NHS employees, who have gone above and beyond to support us and our loved ones, particularly through the recent challenging months.

The Health Secretary has announced the most comprehensive flu programme in UK history will be rolled out this winter to protect the UK’s most vulnerable residents and the NHS. This expansion will see more than 30 million people vaccinated this winter, from those on the shielding list to school children.

I've recently had many constituents contact me regarding a number of posts circling on social media regarding my colleagues and I supposedly voting against a clause that prevents the sale of the NHS in our future trade deals. I want to assure you that this is harmful and worrying political game playing, the NHS is not on the table as part of our trade negotiations, you can read my full statement at the link below.
My Statement on the Trade Bill and the NHS ([link removed])
In the last few months we have seen that being overweight puts you at a much higher risk of dying or being seriously ill from COVID-19. This week, the Government and NHS England have launched a new Better Health Strategy to try and reduce the impact of COVID-19. Losing weight is hard, but with small changes we can all feel fitter and healthier!

The Prime Minister has also announced a £2 billion plan to boost walking and cycling throughout England, tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face. This plan will by provide funds for additional infrastructure, such as cycling lanes, bike racks and on-street storage as well as bicycle repair vouchers.
Find out more about the Better Health Strategy ([link removed])
Find out more about £2billion boost to Walking and Cycling ([link removed])

This month, I met virtually with constituents at The Time Is Now climate change lobby. Although it wasn’t quite the same as last year when we all met in Westminster (pictured), it was a great chance to discuss the importance of making sure our recovery from coronavirus is environmentally sustainable. I have passed some of their specific concerns onto the Chancellor, but it’s great to already see some fantastic announcements, including a £3bn investment package for green home improvements and moves to retrofit social housing.

I also had a productive virtual discussion month Anne-Marie and SJ from the Solent LEP. We discussed a huge range of issues including local business support and the actions of the LEP’s Coronavirus Taskforce.
I've also been contacted by many constituents throughout the pandemic regarding education.

The Secretary of State for Education this month unveiled detailed plans for all children and young people to return to full-time education from September.

He also announced that state schools in England will receive a £2.2 billion funding ([link removed]) increase for next year. This funding is part of the £14 billion settlement for schools by 2022/23.
Read the updated schools guidance here ([link removed])
Further good news from Parliament includes the landmark Domestic Abuse Bill passed through the House of Commons which will keep victims safe and ensure survivors of this horrendous crime get the support they need to rebuild their lives knowing justice has been done.

The Chancellor also announced a unique and unprecedented package of measures to support Britain’s economic recovery and protect jobs. The ‘Plan for Jobs’ ([link removed]) includes:
* A landmark £2 billion Kickstart Scheme
* Investing £111 million into tripling the scale of traineeships
* An extra £32 million for the National Careers Service
* An extra £1 billion of the Department of Work and Pensions.
* £17 million funding boost. for sector-based academy placements
* A £2000 bonus for businesses who employ an apprentice under the age of 25
* A £1500 bonus for businesses who employ an apprentice over 25

Further funding has also been announced for Local Councils ([link removed]) this month. Gosport's total funding boost is £1,029,819, while Fareham have been granted £1,334,362.

As Minister of State for Digital and Culture, I was delighted to announce that Britain’s globally renowned arts, culture and heritage industries will receive a world-leading £1.57 billion rescue package to help weather the impact of coronavirus.

This investment could offer a potential lifeline for valued venues across our area including The Kings Theatre, Mary Rose Museum and the Mayflower Theatre which all face an uncertain future.

The money, which represents the biggest ever one-off investment in UK culture, will provide support to organisations across the country hit hardest by the pandemic.

I was also pleased to see a VAT cut of 15% for restaurants, hotels, attractions and cinemas from 20% to 5% over the next 6 months. Importantly, the measures will also benefit some of the many unique attractions in the Gosport Constituency, including the Diving Museum, Hovercraft Museum, Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower, Submarine Museum and Little Woodham.

As ever, my team and I are here to help. If you have any questions or queries please do not hesitate to get in touch at [email protected].
Best wishes,
Caroline x

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