As the Omicron variant continues to spread exponentially across the country, I urge everyone to take up their third dose of the vaccine and to come forward for their first or second doses if they have not yet received them. The booster programme is our greatest defence against the new variant. I have so far been disappointed in the progress the government has made on this.

Labour backs recent proposals to rapidly accelerate the number of booster vaccines delivered.
Since the start of the pandemic, Labour has acted in the national interest. I have voted in favour of specific government measures designed to protect public health and the NHS from being overwhelmed. Where the government have failed, I have sought to hold them to account and have made many representations on behalf of constituents on issues such as financial support and occupational health and safety. This is how I will continue to work through this new wave of infections.

I therefore voted in favour of measures including the requirement for ‘Covid passes’ demonstrating vaccination status or proof of a negative test for entry to large venues and mass gatherings. Despite many Conservatives rebelling against their own government, the motions passed.