I received fantastic news over Easter from Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, that Havering South PCN has been one of the best performing vaccination teams in the country. I am delighted that the Moderna vaccine is now available for use in the UK, further boosting our vaccine supply. Vaccines are the most important tool available to us in returning to normal life, and it has allowed us to push ahead with the next stage of the road map out of lockdown. 

With non-essential shops and services now back open, my team and I have been working to support local businesses. We have arranged an event for constituents with Small Business Minister, Paul Scully, who has been listening to firms across the country about the support they need.  

We have also hosted a training session with Google’s Digital Garage for small businesses, charities and other organisations in the constituency. Many have had to adapt swiftly and go online during the pandemic, and I wanted to host a session with digital trainers to share some tips on how organisations can improve their digital marketing and reach new audiences as the virtual world becomes ever more important.  

The next unlocking date comes on 17 May and will see the rule of six allowed to meet indoors, with indoor hospitality and remaining outdoor entertainment allowed to reopen and resume. The Government will also be looking to publish its review on international travel, which will be particularly welcome to those who have family members living abroad.  

For those organisations not able to open until the fourth and final stage of the road map on 21 June, we have been trying to secure extra support The Culture Secretary confirmed over Easter that the trust behind the Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch will receive a further £148,500 to prepare for reopening and recovery. I am looking forward to visiting the Hornchurch Stadium soon to hear how I can support local athletes now that they can get back to the sports they love most.