Just a dozen today, including a repeat offender. Well, I say repeat in that I mentioned Adam Holloway in Part 2 of this venture, when his emailed response to a Gravesham constituent asking if she should attend a funeral was ‘You again!’ won him a ‘Biggest Tory Tosser’) award. Now I have his stock letter on the issue.
‘Re: The Cummings Family (nice touch, make it a family affair … there is a child you know, not just the hypocritical Dad and the lying Mum who wrote in the Spectator about their ‘lockdown London’ hell … an issue on which the usually loquacious Andrew Neil and Fraser Nelson are yet to opine.)
Thank you for your email ref Dominic Cummings. (so far, so polite, no “You again-ery.”)
You should not make rules and then break them (getting a bit aggressive here Hollers … “you– suggests you are accusing the complainant, rather than explaining the actions of the defendant) but what the Police say – as opposed to the media who have had so much to say on this – (ah, he is going for the Lügenpresse route) is that there “might have been” a “minor” breach. They have not said there was one (if you want to read their statement, you can find it (posts link; and note the passive aggressive in “if you want … in other words, telling “you” that “you” are not really interested in the facts, unlike me, Hollers.)
This is an important distinction in the context of the concerted attempt (by people unspecified but with a few honourable exceptions not Tory MPs) to remove a man on whom the PM clearly so relies (the ‘Bojo can’t do up his shoelaces without help defence) at a time of the virus, when we need to make a real success of leaving the EU (Let’s just reveal what really matters despite …. )and with the prospect of a calamitous recession (which we will blame on Covid not Brexit) all in the shadow of huge numbers of deaths (caused in Downing Street)and the possibility of a second wave (increased by changing the guidance, and by the many in the public feeling if Durham Dom can break the rules, so can they?). Why else would he use up such enormous amounts of political capital, losing the support of good people like yourselves. (Because he is fucking useless, Hollers.)
Based on the extraordinary (indeed it was, and not in a good way) hour long interview (press conference, but hey, what’s a casual factual error to a Brexit ideologue) he gave last week, outlining his version of events, I do not believe Mr Cummings (my bold … if he had ended the sentence there, it would have been a credible sentence, however … )broke the rules, though like the Police and most of you I find the Barnard Castle drive surprising. (Gosh, do you, Hollers, pray tell …)
If you have not seen the interview, you should watch it here (posts link, now sounding like an advert for DCTV)
Please do not write back to me about this matter if you have not taken the time to watch Mr Cummings in full. (“You”, dear constituent, are only allowed to have a view if you do the research I tell you to.) Much of it was unreported by the mainstream media, (er, it was live on the BBC and Sky, and given the usual blowjob treatment in most of the right wing rags, though the Mail made a rare and short visit to Planet Earth) who unlike Mr Cummings and his family, have consistently (I think you mean PERsistently, and are here trying the “security” line of defence, a lie I have dealt with before) breached social distancing rules outside his home.
I have no special pleading for Mr Cummings – indeed the only time I tried to meet him some years ago, he refused. (And will have even more contempt for me now for being such a lickspittle to someome who was so rude.) It concerns me that people have called for his resignation without knowing the full facts of the case and it is not lost on me that many of the e-mails I have received about this matter were sent before he gave his interview. (Gosh, people had a view about a breach of the rules by an adviser before he gave a one hour press conference in a venue normally reserved for Heads of Government.) In the interests of natural justice one should not automatically assume someone is lying (though with DC’s and BJ’s record …). I believe that most people decided he was guilty even before they had heard his version of events, or before we had heard from the Police. I am also appalled by how people are treating him by camping outside his house and shouting abuse. This sustained attack on Mr Cummings and his family obviously informed the decision he made about travelling to Durham and it also informs my view on his actions. (Here we go again. The Durham trip created the protests, not the other way round, Hollers you Numpty.)
‘However, I recognise the strength of feeling amongst my constituents about Mr Cummings and it is certainly true that other people in the same situation may well have made different decisions – and that many people feel this is a case of double standards: but this is not a view shared by Durham Police (he doesn’t post the part of the statement where the cops commented on double standards, because it doesn’t exist, though he could have posted interviews with senior retired police and others suggesting exactly that, and with dangerous consequences) or the Prime Minister.
(Shift of gear to cut and paste) From the many, many e-mails I have received since lock-down began, I also recognise the sacrifices people have made to comply with the Government’s instruction to stay at home and save lives. I deeply regret that people feel that this unhappy incident at the height of the pandemic in some way devalues all they have done to stop the spread of the virus. May I also add that I send my deepest condolences to those who have suffered a bereavement during the pandemic. (Well that is so genuine, isn’t it? IF you have lost a parent or a child, I am really sorry. If this doesn’t apply to you, move on…)
Because I have received over 400 e-mails from constituents, all but 5 or so of them calling for Mr Cummings to resign or be sacked, I understand that my views on this matter are at odds with those of most who have written in. (He can do basic maths, knows 5 is a minority of 400+.) I have therefore written to the Prime Minister to let him know how many people have contacted me and I have sent on a selection of 25 e-mails so he can see what people have to say on this matter. (Though I know other MPs are saying the same, and he won’t read any of them.)
I apologies for the fact that I am sending out the same response to everyone who has written to me about this issue. (But I feel you all need to have my unique mix of uncharm and unempathy.)
I can assure you that this letter is not the stock Government line on the issue but my own views. (which just happen to coincide with the Number 10 line).
I appreciate that this may not be the response you are after, but I am not going to send you a dishonest response that does not reflect my views – and I am not going to be influenced by the reporting of this. (or the fact that almost 100percent of the people I represent disagree.)Someone is innocent unless they are guilty. They are not guilty just because others think they are.’
Steve Brine, MP for Winchester & Chandler’s Ford, rightly assumes that he is likely to get more than one complaint on the issue, not least because of his views on the matter, so has a neat little PS.
‘PS – we are working 24/7 (or round the clock, night and day, straining every sinew, as Matt Hancock puts it) at present to process all email fairly and promptly. Please consider whether you need to contact me (or click reply) at this time so we can concentrate on those most in need. Thank you in advance and, please note, if you’ve emailed about this before and had a reply, you should NOT expect further.” (The Brine constituent who sent this to me was not impressed: “The capitalized ‘NOT’ I find particularly offensive, the utter cheek, as if it is his position to dictate what we consider relevant, arrogance doesn’t seem to cover it.)
That being said, Brine does seem to want Cummings out.
‘Ultimately it is for the Prime Minister to decide the future of his senior advisors but my advice to him (not clear how this has been given) has been; (Not sure that semi-colon does the job there, Briney) when the advisor becomes the story it is not, in my experience, (pray explain what experience of this you have) a sustainable position and sooner or later something has to give. It’s quite simple, either we as a country decide to move on and put 100% of our energies back into beating this virus or Mr Cummings has to go. (So it is Cummings or Covid? Interesting) If Dominic (what happened to Mr Cummings?) has any self-awareness at all, he must see this.”
Ranil Jayawardena, MP for North East Hampshire, is another one reply man. “My priorities throughout have remained the same: we must defeat this ghastly virus and provide support to those who need it. That’s why I will not be replying further on this issue but if you wish to raise any other issues as a constituent, you are always welcome to do so.”
Nadhim Zahawi, MP for Stratford-on-Avon, is a minister, so hemmed in a fair bit. But he writes nice empathy at the start, which ought to be within the gift of every MP, but one of the most stunning things about having spent several hours a day this week analysing these letters is just how robotic, formulaic and impersonal most of them are.
“First I want to acknowledge the many personal stories constituents have shared with me, both in recent days and throughout the course of this pandemic. I know the current restrictions have caused enormous amounts of hardship, pain and grief, particularly in situations where loved ones have been separated from one another at times of grave illness and, so sadly, death. My deepest sympathies go to everyone who has suffered loss and separation during this difficult period, but so too do my thanks for dutifully and selflessly following official guidance at huge personal cost.” (That is properly expressed, one of the few.)
(Then cut and paste) “I accept Mr Cummings’ account of events and his explanations of the reasons behind his decisions. I do not believe that he ultimately broke any official guidance. I will therefore not be calling for his resignation and will continue to support his remaining in post. As Mr Cummings himself acknowledged, others will of course disagree with the decisions he took, and I note that some of my parliamentary colleagues have come to this view. However this is not a view I share.”
Oliver Heald QC, MP for North East Hertfordshire, replied to one complainant with:
“This is not constituency business. I will not be responding.
Rt Hon Sir Oliver Heald QC MP (they do love their titles)
Member of Parliament for North East Hertfordshire.”
He has a constituent especially keen to assess how Heald, a QC remember, feels about the Attorney General expressing a partisan view about Cummings, even as the police were investigating.
‘For the fourth time of asking, I should be grateful for your response regarding the AG. As an officer of the court, I hope that you will have the integrity to confirm that you will be urging the AG to resign. Her comments today on this topic are risible.’
Four emails later, he replied. “I did reply to your message. I also summarised the messages I received and ensured they reached the top of Government, so the voice of North East Herts was heard. I would not have made the decisions Dominic Cummings did, but the choice of adviser is for the Prime Minister.”
David Duguid, MP for Banff & Buchan
His constituent accompanied his MP’s stock response with this. ‘Dear Mr Campbell, I sent 3 emails to him and only received a response when I congratulated him on his promotion to a minor government post.’
Mr Duguid, now a junior minister at the Scottish Office after his predecessor Douglas Ross’s resignation over the Johnson/Cummings scandal, said: “Cut and paste, fake news, Durham cops… and so …]
‘I believe that it is in the best interests of the country that we now move on. (Bingo)
Gary Streeter, MP for South West Devon. “Over the weekend I formed the view that there had, on balance, been a breach of the lockdown rules and fed into Downing Street my recommendation that Mr Cummings be sacked.
However, I then watched the extraordinary press conference in the rose garden on bank holiday Monday and reached the conclusion that the actions of Mr Cummings just about kept him within the rules, given the clear exemption for looking after vulnerable people which obviously includes a four-year-old child. I accept that the excursion to Barnard castle was weird and the explanation weirder still.” (So I thought he should be sacked, but then I watched him explain what happened and it was weird, so he should definitely not be sacked.)
Rob Roberts, MP for Delyn, finally replied to the constituent who sent this: ‘Your daily reminder that I am expecting your response to this as soon as possible. That being your own response, not a cut and paste template created by someone else to save you the effort of treating your constituent with some respect.’
Finally, one of the longest letters came, with lots of bang average story-telling, meandering through what we alreadt know, and finally: “I accept that Mr Cummings’ actions will be considered poor judgement by many and perhaps not in the spirit of the law, particularly when so many of us have made such significant personal sacrifices over recent weeks. However, the decisions taken by Mr Cummings were within the guidance as an exceptional circumstance when the care of children was involved, as stated by Deputy CMO Dr Jenny Harries previously.” (Jenny bloody Harries again. Though I notice she has vanished, along with all the other medical and scientific experts.)
Jason McCartney, MP for Colne Valley, goes for the Hollers passive/aggressive. ‘You are entitled to your views as I am to mine. I do serve all my constituents of a political affiliation or none. I am dealing currently with hundreds of cases of people who genuinely need help due to covid-19 and connected issues, and they are my priority, rather than a tiny minority who just want to make negative comments and contribute nothing.’ (Nice, though further to get it off his plate, he helpfully contact details of senior party members, The local Party chair, the Chief Whip and Boris Johnson.)
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak: ‘If all the reports about Mr Cummings are true, then I believe his position is untenable and he should resign. We cannot have a situation where it is one rule for the public and another for politicians. I have passed on both my views and those of a huge number of my constituents on to the highest levels of Government. I will also be writing to the Prime Minister.” (I would like to see the letter.)
Laura Farris, MP for Newbury: (Cake/eat) “I have considered carefully Dominic Cumming’s explanation – that he was worried about the welfare of his child, and he travelled to Durham to self-isolate and arrange emergency childcare is necessary from his sister or nieces. Whilst I have some sympathy for the desire to protect a child, this does not alter my overall view that the rules on self-isolation at home when symptomatic are clear.” (But … blah.)
Derek Thomas, MP for West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (St Ives) has at least noticed, unlike Hancock and so many others, when a constituent tells them something personal.
‘Thank you very much for your email – my sincere condolences on the death of your father. I have every sympathy for the situation you found yourself in regarding your father but your family’s responsible actions in staying at home has helped to ensure that the rate of infection in Cornwall has been kept under control and reduced the possibility of health services being swamped.
Regarding Dominic Cummings, I agree that he has not set a good example although, as a parent, I do sympathise with his desire to do what he can to protect his children.
I understand that he has been told in no uncertain terms (understands from what?) that his behaviour was unacceptable but it must also be borne in mind that the police have decided that his transgression was a ‘minor breach’.
Please be assured that I have let Ministers know about the massive strength of feeling on this issue from people in West Cornwall.’
There we are. I am pretty much done with these people. I knew they were bad, both in terms of values and competence, with the worst badness right at the top. But these letters have confirmed the problem with the Tory Party runs very, very deep.
Have a nice weekend.
This from my MP Bob Seely, 2 weeks ago.
Some irony…
Dear Mr Garrett,
Thank you for your email.
I am aware that some people expect instant responses, but I have hundreds of emails per week and am receiving many emails from Islanders who need support on issues relating to personal circumstances and personal hardship.
In addition, at 115,000 voters, the Island is by far the largest single constituency in the UK. I need to prioritize these cases of hardship as opposed to people who wish to inform me of their anger. I am sure you will understand.
In light of this, please see my statement on Dominic Cummings:
We need to collectively respect the rules and the reasons for them. Individuals and families up and down the country are exercising their own judgment on a daily basis as to how the rules apply to specific situations. As part of this, people may occasionally err, or sometimes act in a way which others consider inappropriate.
There are some Islanders who are rightly concerned about Mr Cumming’s behaviour because they see it as an example of double standards. I agree that much greater thought should have been given to the perception of this. I also agree that some form of contrition would have been helpful. The perception of arrogance is not attractive in any human being, let alone people who should be setting an example.
In the Cummings’ case, if there was a persistent ignoring of rules, that is one thing, but in a one-off incident or a simple error of judgement, I would prefer to use a little understanding and a sense of forgiveness. I would do so regardless whether someone was a political opponent or ally. Indeed, there are at least four cases where opposition Members of Parliament broke the rules of lockdown. I do not demand their resignations but do believe we should all try to set an example.
My understanding is that Durham Police have now said that this was a “minor breach” of regulations and are taking no further action.
Please be assured that my focus will remain on the Island: liaising with a wide range of organisations (including the leadership of the Isle of Wight Council) about our ongoing response to coronavirus, and how best to support residents and businesses; securing Government support for the Island (such as funding for a rail feasibility study); and continuing to handle casework received from constituents.
Thank you again for your email.
Bob
—– Forwarded message —–
From: “AMESS, David”
To: “johnenicholson@sky.com”
Cc:
Sent: Thu, 28 May 2020 at 17:15
Subject: RE: Dominic Cummings
Dear Mr Nicholson,
Thank you for your email sharing your views regarding the Chief Adviser to the Prime Minister. I have issued a statement on this matter, which can be found here.
https://www.davidamess.co.uk/news/statement-chief-adviser-prime-minister
With all best wishes,
Yours sincerely,
Sir David Amess MP
Sir David Amess MP
Member of Parliament for Southend West
House of Commons
London
SW1A 0AA
( 020 7219 3452
http://www.davidamess.co.uk
Hi Alastair
Loving your work on MP-tossers! I’ve got a reply from Nadhim Zahawi. How do I send it to you?
Thanks,
Sean
Got it, thanks
Finally got a reply from my MP Mims Davis on her position ,
Dear Angus Kirk
Thank you for taking the time to email me about your views on the Prime Minister’s special advisor, Dominic Cummings and his movements during lockdown relating to his family. I do appreciate you taking the time explaining to me how strongly you feel about this, as well as passing on your views and what you believe the PM should have done or should do now.
I am replying as quickly as possible to a large influx of almost 2000 emails on this subject, whilst balancing a wide-ranging inbox on both this matter and many others related to Covid 19, focusing on helping those in emergency and urgent needs as my priority. I recognise some constituents have felt frustrated by this and have written in several times. I am always keen to understand matters broadly before rushing in on views regarding personal matters and individual decisions, I thank you for your patience and understanding.
I wish meanwhile to thank you for everything you have all done to follow the Government guidance on social distancing, which has helped us drastically reduce the spread of the virus. I know how hard it has been for everyone to go so long without seeing loved ones or doing the things we love. We are now slowly moving into a recovery phase and I know the good people of Mid Sussex will continue to do all they can to keep the infection rate low and move forward carefully.
Local families have been impacted hugely by this public health emergency and the actions we have had to face mean choices of the impact of action we have needed to take. None of us have been immune to the wide-ranging personal impacts – personal loss, loss of trust, grief, painful separation, isolation and significant great worry including financial concerns. All understandable and truly difficult emotions. Over the recent weeks, we all have seen the incredible work and sacrifices many have made nearby to help tackle the threat Coronavirus has presented to our community, from public health workers and to the many thousands of volunteers, who answered the call to help and allow some of those who may usually fill such roles to isolate themselves and stay at home. It has been inspiring to see and reminds us why Mid Sussex is such a great community to be a part of.
In light of all of this, the Dominic Cummings’ personal situation, which came to light with a range of questions and opinions as well as a mix of views: from mild understanding and strong support, to huge condemnation, anger and pain – which is completely understandable. I have already put up an initial response on my social media platforms. Rest assured, I will also endeavour to further reply individually, to those who have contacted me with their own experiences. This may be of losing their loved ones due to the pandemic or those who have highlighted the additional personal challenges and choices they have faced due to the impact of Covid-19. As MPs, it’s vital we try to understand and balance strong opinions, as well as be someone reliable to turn to if needed regardless of how you vote. I am also a Government Minister and I have been continuously working on the next stage of the recovery plan focused on jobs and livelihoods. I have needed to make sure that I balance constituent’s thoughts and concerns with the work I am doing to help us all move into the next phase.
Several opposition MPs and political representatives have also hit the headlines for similar incidents – another MP yet again this weekend. Yet people do feel particularly concerned mainly about those choices of Mr Cummings and his family situation due to is role – I fully recognise this is why an explanation on this was vital.
For me, the Dominic Cummings’ press statement was very difficult viewing for most people. As a single parent, who isolated early on due to both myself and my daughters having symptoms, I do understand the emotional challenge this pandemic has brought to all those worried about family, particularly those shielding with children or without family help close by.
It should be noted for context, on March 24th, the day after lock-down had begun, the deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Jenny Harries, clarified at the Government’s daily press conference who can look after a child if both parents/carers were incapacitated. She said: “Clearly if you have adults who are unable to look after a small child that is an exceptional circumstance. And if the individuals do not have access to care support – formal care support – or to family, they will be able to work through their local authority hubs.” I believe these are the exceptional circumstances Dominic Cummings referred to in his press conference, which were first highlighted by Dr Harries to both the public and press in March. I have passed on these exceptional circumstances’ details to many of those in Mid Sussex who have had their own individual challenges to react to and for them to make their own choices in an extremely difficult situation. I have sought to give timely advice, to sympathise, guide and help navigate those stuck in personally challenging situations.
I have been continuously, like most people, following the news and the various Government announcements on the Gov.uk website to ensure my team and I are able to provide the most up to date information, support, advice and guidance to help constituents when responding to various bespoke queries. This has ranged from people asking if they are able to pick up repatriated relatives from Gatwick or Heathrow, to being able to travel to buy and give food or medicine to vulnerable relatives who live far away, or pick up children from University student accommodation, from Brighton to Leeds – all of these situations and many, many more have, in some cases, involved travelling long distances and interpreting the guidance.
I wanted to share some of this with you to highlight things are rarely simple and clear, which has meant I have had to use my own judgement when giving advice and offering assistance at this challenging time. Occasionally, I have advised constituents that, given their exceptional circumstances and if their GP agreed, they should travel to another location, often over long distances, due to a specific vulnerability. My team and I have had worried, and I can say personally sleepless, nights, where we are doing our best to support and advise but the challenge has been daunting and worrying. In this context, I hope you can see I strongly understand the importance of decision making during this period, as well as the distinct pressures around it.
I cannot say if I would have given the very same travel advice to Mr Cummings, in line with the reported actions he took in his perceived exceptional personal circumstance (many have asked about the possibility of closer childcare). However, I understand from reports the young child may have additional personal needs which had to be supported in the event of parental incapacitation because of Covid-19. As you can understand, these matters are rarely black and white and I don’t know the full details beyond what has been shared at the press conference. I don’t know Mr Cummings. I have never met him personally, but I have been in 1 or 2 meetings where he has been. Before this, his reputation was to be hardworking and focused on his role. As a mother, I also don’t know that I can condemn the actions of a family man when the welfare of a youngster is involved in the search for suitably reliable childcare in the face of the pandemic.
Given his prominent position, however, this detailed explanation from him SHOULD have come very much quicker and many are disappointed it only emerged through the media, which included several false reports on the reasons for his movements. Meanwhile, those reporting his movements to the media have also be scrutinised.
The challenge and stress of being at the heart of government, at any level during this public health, and now economic, emergency cannot be easy quantified. This is both in terms of the huge pressures and challenges people are under through having to be both available and ready to work or act at any time. Therefore, questionable decisions will be made at different times and we will all be rightly critical of those and their outcomes. But I am always concerned to see any family home become a target. We want real people in politics and part of the deal is we all make human decisions and mistakes, as well as constantly being under massive strain.
I don’t believe our politics really benefits much from social media or traditional media-driven resignation hunting or as some term ‘scalp hunting’, but I do strongly realise and believe trust is important, along with clear answers and accountability are crucial in our democracy.
It is vital, particularly right now with the start of the NHS’s Test and Trace system, for all of us to continue to fight this virus together and prepare for measures to be eased when it is safe to do so. This will enable us to start to get the economy back up and running, as well as to return life back to as close to normal as soon as possible. I will continue to work closely with my colleagues in the Government to ensure this can become a reality.
Constituents are completely entitled to their ongoing strong opinions and irritation on a matter which has come during an unprecedented national crisis. I have personally made my constituents’ strong feelings on this, on both sides, abundantly clear via my Whip to the centre of our Party, on behalf of everyone who has taken the time to get in touch and share their views.
There can only be one law, hence in Mr Cummings’ instance, it is Durham Police who are fully determining and looking at this. I believe this and any situation must be done without any political fear or favour and they must have been able to determine this and then look to act, if they believe there is a wider case to answer. We must all expect, no matter what anyone’s political view that we can have trust and confidence in this determination and in any action.
To see the latest statement from Durham’s Constabulary view, please click here: https://www.durham.police.uk/news-and-events/Pages/News%20Articles/Durham-Constabulary-press-statement–.aspx
I would also encourage constituents to read and understand the vital new information on the NHS Test and Trace system, which is now up and running. This is crucial to all of us continuing in the fight to slow the spread, keep safe and move into recovery together: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-for-coronavirus/nhs-test-and-trace-if-youve-been-in-contact-with-a-person-who-has-coronavirus/
I would like to again thank everyone in Mid Sussex for their ongoing due diligence during these incredibly challenging times for us all. I will continue to work with my team to help and support the community as we look to move further into the recovery period, whilst continuing to keep people safe as we move forward. Therefore, I will not be entering into further discussion on this matter.
I hope this was helpful. Stay safe.
Kind regards,
Mims
Another cut a paste
Of the three recent e-mails sent to my MP, the first two received an automatic acknowledgement, the last one not even that.. So, thank you, Suella Braverman.
Dear Alastair, here is the reply from my MP, Robert Courts (he still has not replied to my second email on the same topic).
Robert Courts robert@robertcourts.co.uk via caseworkermp.com
Thu, May 28, 3:20 PM (13 days ago)
to me
Dear Elena (if I may,)
Thank you for writing to me about the actions of Dominic Cummings. I understand why so many questions have been asked and it is right that Mr Cummings provide answers. Fairness is embedded in the DNA of our nation and, at a time when the British public have made unprecedented sacrifices, it is only right that those making the rules abide by them.
At the outset, I have never met Mr Cummings and hold no brief for or against him. However, I have said that I think two factors ought to guide how we approach this matter.
Firstly, I do not think that the matter ought to be politicised. I fully understand that Mr Cummings is a divisive figure, who acts as something of a lightning rod for those who dislike what he is seen to stand for. Some people will never forgive him for his role in Brexit, some will dislike him because of his role in the Conservatives’ election victory in December. I accept that for those people, none of what I may have to say here will count for very much.
Nonetheless it seems to me only fair that any man should be judged by what he did set against the law at the time, rather than because people may not like him.
Secondly, I think this matter should be looked at with compassion: Heaven forbid that we should ever be parted from that. Mr Cummings has a young son at about the same age as my own and I fully understand the demands of looking after a toddler even when you yourself are fit and well. In addition, however, Mr Cummings’ wife was ill, he was becoming very seriously ill, he has a job that is pressured to an extent unbelievable unless you have seen it, at a time of national crisis.
With that background, it is worth reminding ourselves of the law as it stood at the time.
The reasonable excuses for leaving home listed in Regulation 6 of the Coronavirus Health Protection Regulations for England, as they stood at the time, are inclusive, not exclusive. In other words, the law does not define what constitutes a reasonable excuse: it merely lists some examples of reasons that would not be unreasonable. The law cannot provide detailed rules for every conceivable situation: some judgement has to be exercised.
Even once we accept that the law does not detail all circumstances, it is worth noting in any event that one of the examples given is “to provide care or assistance…to a vulnerable person” which clearly can include a child that cannot look after itself.
One week before Mr Cummings drove to County Durham, in a conference with the Secretary of State for Health, Matt Hancock, the Deputy Medical Officer, Jennie Harries, said “clearly, if you have adults unable to look after a small child, that is an exceptional circumstance.” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4d8gjTDkeGc – from 18:15)
And the guidance, in fact, says:
“If you are living with children
Keep following this advice to the best of your ability, however, we are aware that not all these measures will be possible.”
And so, the sole issue in the case of Mr Cummings is whether what he and his wife did, in the circumstances as they existed when they drove to County Durham, and when measured against the law as it stood, amounted to “a reasonable excuse”.
In his statement, he gave what I thought was a clear, detailed, honest explanation of what he did at the time, followed by extensive questioning by the media. If you have not seen it in full, then I would encourage you to watch it: https://youtu.be/-mSyZGy8LX8
The question is not whether we agree with him, or whether we would have done the same – but whether what he did was reasonable. Mr Cummings himself accepted that reasonable people might disagree with him – but that is not the question we have to answer.
Having listened to the clear explanation Mr Cummings has given, in which I thought he came across as a man who was trying to do the right thing for his family in extremely difficult circumstances, and when set against the law as it was, I do not think that the Prime Minister’s decision to retain his services is one that can be criticised.
As to whether there is one rule for Westminster and another for everybody else, of course: there is not. The law is what it is, and must be interpreted the same for everybody, dispassionately, coolly and without fear or favour. Were a member of the public to be investigated for a similar breach, I would expect that they too would be treated in a dispassionate manner, save that I would always find space for compassion.
Furthermore, I understand that Durham Police’s investigation has now concluded. A number of points of note arise from their statement, which you can read in full here: https://tinyurl.com/yc39cgtf
Firstly, the police correctly state “we are concerned here with breaches of the Regulations, not the general Government guidance to “stay at home””. This is, of course, precisely the point I have made above.
Secondly, “Durham Constabulary does not consider that by locating himself at his father’s premises, Mr Cummings committed an offence….” This goes further than the point I made, which only suggested that his action might have been reasonable. The police have decided that it was.
Thirdly, the Barnard Castle trip “might” have been a “minor” breach of the Regulations which the constabulary view as “minor because there was no breach of social distancing” and that had Mr Cummings been stopped at the time and accepted police advice “no enforcement action would have been taken.”
The media reports that the police conclude that Mr Cummings did break the rules are incorrect: the police statement only says “might”. This is not pedantic but a vital principle: the police assemble evidence, they do not decide on whether someone breaches a rule. Only a court can do that – or the person can accept it and receive an on-the-spot fine.
In this case, and fourthly, “there is no intention to take retrospective action in respect of the Barnard Castle incident since this would amount to treating Mr Cummings differently from other members of the public” – and so this issue will go no further.
And so the simple question that remains – and in fact has always been the question upon which I can give a position – is whether Mr Cummings should lose his job for a possible minor infraction of the rules for which the police have confirmed they will not be taking any action? If this case were one about a constituent, I would be arguing in the strongest possible terms that they should not be losing their job in such circumstances. I do not see any reason to take a different position about Mr Cummings.
Given the police have made clear that they are taking no action against Mr Cummings, I accept the Prime Minister’s view and, like him, regard this issue as closed.
If any further facts emerge then I will of course reflect on this again, but I do feel that the country ought to return to the very pressing challenge of safely getting our country out of ‘lockdown’ and rebuilding our economy after the horrible coronavirus pandemic. In any event, my primary focus will continue to be on supporting local residents and businesses through this unprecedented crisis.
However, please be assured that I am well aware of the strength of feeling on this matter and, as in all such cases, I can assure you that I have relayed your feelings to the Government.
Many thanks again for taking the time to write to me and keep well.
With every good wish,
Robert
Robert Courts MP
Member of Parliament for Witney & West Oxfordshire
Tel: 01993 22 50 20
Email: robert@robertcourts.co.uk
Website: http://www.robertcourts.co.uk
STAY ALERT. CONTROL THE VIRUS. SAVE LIVES. GOV.UK/CORONAVIRUS
Robert Largan MP High Peak. I’ve just emailed him to ask if he has written to PM & did he get a reply. Asking to see both in the spirit of transparent govt. Also asked why he came out in press asking for Cummings to resign & has now gone quiet.
I shall report back !
Thank you so much Alastair for taking the time to compile and publish the replies from the MPs. I am horrified to read their responses to constituents many of whom will have taken the time, as I did, to send a thoughtful and composed letter for the first time to their MP. The Brexit shambles, the Cummings scandal and the incompetent action around Coronavirus shows a government out of its depth. The collection of arrogant, worthless and morally bankrupt Brexiteers running the show under the control of Dominic Cummings makes me wonder how we could ever as a country reach this position. The answer, sadly, is purely the strength of the Brexit campaign, funded by enormously wealthy donors who were seeking to get even richer. The whole show is a disgrace. Absolutely dreadful and I feel ashamed and embarrassed to admit I live in the UK and they represent me.
This is the reply I received from Julian Smith which seems very sincere. The kind comments he refers to were that, despite not being a Conservative voter, I thought he did a very good job as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. He seems to be one of the best of a bad bunch.
Josh,
Thank you for your email. I fully understand and sympathise with your frustration on this issue. And thank you also for your kind comments.
The commitment to following the rules by you, your family and so many other families and citizens during this lockdown has been extraordinary and has made a critical difference to the slowing of this awful disease, protecting the NHS and avoiding further deaths. It is vital that we all continue to adhere both to the letter and to the spirit of the government guidance as we have to do everything possible to avoid a second wave of infection.
The Prime Minister and Mr Cummings have now both made statements. I am not planning to make any public comment as I believe that the Prime Minister is acutely aware of the level of anger across the country but has taken, and is unlikely to change, his decision on how to proceed. I will of course send him a copy of your email.
I am personally in no doubt about the level of anger about this episode and I am really sorry but not surprised that you and so many others have felt so let down by it.
I and my office continue to stand ready to help you and your family in any way we can as we move through this crisis.
Best wishes,
Julian
I sent an email to my MP Jack Lopresti and got a paper letter reply addressed to my husband, even though the email was from me! How can I send it to you?
Can you stand another letter re: Cummings in reply to two of mine after my MP, Tom Pursglove didn’t even acknowledge the second? I will scan it and send it to you, but where do I send it? I’ve now replied to his ‘missive’. We’ll see if I get any response to that one. BTW, I also contacted the PM at his government website email address and have yet to receive an acknowledgment of receipt of TWO email I sent, let alone a reply.
Dear Alaistair
Just wanted to say thank you so much for all your relentless efforts in holding this excuse for leadership to account and for putting up with a lot of abuse in the process. Your articles really give us some hope on a daily basis. Having raised three children to always do the right thing and above all be honest, words fail me with these Etonian educated leaders oozing arrogance, entitlement and lies.
Coming from Northern Ireland, it is particularly upsetting to see that they are quite happy to dispose of the province after all your efforts, I really pity the farmers there now but like the rest of us they are expendable. If Cummings is such a gifted strategist, I don’t understand why we have over 40K dead citizens and counting.
Anyway thanks again, hopefully with all your hard work the pendulum will swing back soon.
Thank you Alastair Campbell for the tireless and important work you are doing for this country!
I sent 3 emails to Will Quince, MP for Colchester, all of which received automatic acknowledgements, before getting this reply on 28 May, at 13.52. The email doesn’t even bother to use my name.
Good afternoon,
I have been contacted by many constituents regarding the decision of the Prime Minister’s advisor, Dominic Cummings, to isolate his family in a building on his father’s farm in Durham. At the outset please accept my apologies for this more general non-personalised response. I have received hundreds of emails on this subject and this should address your comments while ensuring my team and I can continue focusing on supporting many constituents with the varied issues they have raised during this crisis.
I understand why this issue has prompted so many of you to write to me: a sense of doing the right thing, fair play and pulling together are core British values. At a time when so many are having to make tough choices and sacrifices for the greater good, there is rightfully an expectation that those in positions of responsibility lead by example.
I understand that Mr Cummings is a divisive figure and that the motivation for contacting me on this issue will be different for each and every person. However, I do think it important that this issue is not politicised. One thing I hope we can agree on is that no one should be subjected to the level of harassment he and his young family have had to experience at their home from journalists and photographers.
Earlier this week Mr Cummings gave a frank, detailed account of events and answered many questions from the media. If you have not seen it in full, then I would encourage you to watch it: https://youtu.be/-mSyZGy8LX8 . I wish that Mr Cummings had shared his detailed account of events days earlier so when this story broke, people could hear his version of events and the reasoning for his actions.
In his statement, Mr Cummings advised that he believes he followed the guidance by making provisions to ensure his four-year-old child would have childcare if both he and his wife became incapacitated – the guidance did offer discretion in some circumstances. These are difficult times and we all take decisions that we feel and think are appropriate at the time. Mr Cummings did what he thought was appropriate at the time to protect his child. Whether you agree with him or not, he believed, and believes, that this was within the guidance and was legal. I understand that Durham police opened an investigation following a formal complaint and concluded that Mr Cummings had not breached the regulations when self-isolating at his father’s farm in Durham but the trip to Barnard Castle might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention. I further understand that Durham Constabulary have confirmed they will not be taking any further action against Mr Cummings.
With regards to Mr Cummings’ position, the Prime Minister has taken the view that what Mr Cummings did was reasonable and legal given all the circumstances and he considers the matter closed. Mr Cummings works for the Prime Minister and therefore this is a matter wholly for the Prime Minister, not me.
Speaking more generally, I understand why many are angry or disappointed. To address this public health crisis, residents across the country have had to make heart-breaking sacrifices and difficult decisions – not least being unable to see their families and their friends for months during a difficult period. I am in no doubt of the enormous struggles which so many in our community have endured over the past few months, and of the hard work of our key workers who have kept us all safe. This is why my focus has been, and remains on supporting people and businesses in Colchester through Covid-19 and my work as a Minister at the Department for Work & Pensions ensuring people have access to the support they need.
Please rest assured that I have fed your comments into government and I do appreciate that you took the time to raise them with me. I know that some of you would have liked me to wade into this debate about the rights and wrongs of what Mr Cummings did, but I am sorry to say that I will not be doing that. This issue risks becoming a distraction from the very urgent issues facing both Colchester and our country, and my and my team’s focus remains on supporting my constituents through Covid-19. To be absolutely clear, I have full confidence in our Prime Minister and stand by him.
I understand that some of you may have further questions but, having set out my thoughts on this matter, I regret that I will not be responding further.
I will continue to keep you all posted as the Government works to lift the restrictions in a safe way so we can all be reunited with our loved ones again.
Kind Regards
Will
Will Quince MP
Member of Parliament for Colchester
Response re. Mr Dominic Cummings (Case Ref: MC1269)
Dear ******
Thank you for contacting me about the Prime Minister’s advisor, Mr Dominic Cummings, and the decisions he took with regard to the provision of childcare for his son, and to express your view that he should face consequences for those decisions. I am receiving a very large volume of correspondence and so unfortunately, I am not able to write a personal response to everyone who has contacted me about this issue.
I believe that it is important to listen to the evidence before drawing conclusions, and that has informed my approach to this situation.
Over the past week, all emails and letters sent to me have been carefully read, so as to ensure that I have been fully able to understand the views of my constituents. Many constituents have shared moving stories of the personal hardships they have faced during lockdown, both through their correspondence with me about Mr Cummings, but also through the day-to-day work I and my team have undertaken on their behalf. I would like to reassure you that the wide range of views have been shared with colleagues in Government.
From the 23rd of March, when lockdown began, my office has received many hundreds of queries from constituents asking for clarification of the regulations and for guidance in managing their particular circumstances, as well as for help in understanding the actions that their friends and neighbours had been taking. My advice has always been based on the regulations as enacted on the 26th of March and the guidance that accompanied these regulations, and I have advised constituents to apply them as well as they can to their own context, to ensure compliance with the law, whilst making the best decisions for themselves and their families.
This is not a policy matter that I can ‘vote’ on in parliament; rather it is an issue where each of us has to take a personal view. After careful consideration of the facts and the details of the law, I have come to my own conclusion and I have explained this in full on my website. You can see my statement by clicking here. I fully respect each individual’s right to take a different view to mine, and of course, I will continue to represent my constituents by sharing their views with the Government.
Further I fundamentally believe that the law must be applied equally to all. If I had felt that Mr Cummings had broken the regulations, or if the police had found that he had, then I would fully expect him to be treated in the same way as every other citizen would be treated.
I have the utmost respect for every member of our community and recognise that we have all sacrificed a lot during the last 10 weeks. My deepest sympathies are with all those who have suffered separation from family members, or who have lost loved ones during this time.
As I’m sure you will understand, my team and I are focussing on helping constituents who in these unprecedented times are facing significant and urgent difficulties so I will not be able to engage in further correspondence on this issue.
Thank you again for taking the time to share your views with me.
With best wishes
Miriam Cates MP
Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge
House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
miriam.cates.mp@parliament.uk
http://www.miriamcates.org.uk
2 weeks since I wrote to Amanda Milling, MP for Cannock, and still no reply
Here is what Tom Pursglove, MP Corby &East Northamptonshire wrote in reply to TWO emails I sent him. I addressed him as ‘Mr. Pursglove’ but he replied ‘Dear Inge’.
Thank you for your recent email in respect of the reported actions of the Prime Minister’s special adviser, Dominic cummings, during the
‘lockdown’ restrictions.
I have read your comments carefully, along with those of everyone locally who has taken the time to write to
me over the last week. As you will understand, I wanted to do this, and listen to Mr Cummings’ account, before
reflecting on matters and responding in full.
You will also recognise that this issue has been subject to an investigation by Durham Police. Rightly, that
investigation needed to be allowed to proceed without undue political influence or interference, as we do not
have trial by media in this country – and for good reason. I feel very strongly that due process must be followed
– as is the right of any citizen in this countr5r, without exception, and as I have always maintained the importance
of throughout my time in politics.I therefore did not make any comment on the circumstances of the case, so
as not to prejudice the investigation. That independent Police investigation has now concluded, and I understand
Durham Police intend to take no further’action.
First, I wish to be absolutely clear in saying that I am under no illusions as to how strongly local people feel
about this, and like you, I believe it is essential that the restrictions are adhered to in both letter and in spirit.
Over recent weeks I have seen first-hand the tireless work and innumerate sacrifices so many have made across
Corby & East Northamptonshire to help tackle the threat Coronavirus has presented to us all.I have been
inspired by the herculean efforts of our frontline NHS and social care staff, by the many thousands of people
who answered the call to volunteer, and the willingness of local people to follow the rules in both letter and in
spirit to help protect the NHS and ultimately, save lives. The loss of life we have felt across the country has
been an immense tragedy and our thoughts are with all those affected and their families at this most difficult of
times.
None of that has been easy, it has often been very frustrating, and in many cases, extrernely upsetting. I know
that not least because of the thousands and thousands of letters and emails I have received from local people
throughout the duration of this emergency to date, and I have worked hard to do my very best to ensure that
local people have received the help and support they require in dealing with the individual challenges, worries
and concerns they have felt so acutely.
Personally, I am clear in my mind that I would not have acted as Mr Cummings did. However, none of us can
ever completely appreciate the precise circumstances and thought processes any individual has in mind at any
one time when reaching decisions, particularly when the wellbeing of a child is involved. I also note that the
sustained scenes outside Mr Cummings’ house, where his wife and child are also resident, have been nothing
short of deplorable, as has the ‘door-stepping’ of his parents. I would not wish such treatment on anyone,
regardless of who they are, or how I might feel about them.
As you know, Mr Cummings has publicly given a full account and explanation of the actions he took. I am not
going to try and mount a defence on his behalf here: each of us will have listened and drawn our own
conclusions. I believe it is entirely reasonable for people to vehemently disagree with his view of the events.
With that in mind, I completely understand the anger with which you wrote, especially as the British people
have made so many sacrifices to help fight this virus. Please be assured that the strength of feeling of my
constituents and the points you have raised have been relayed directly to the Prime Minister and other senior
representatives of the Government – in full. As a Government Minister, I am in the privileged position of being
able to ensure that your views, the strength of your views, alongside my own views, are regularly conveyed
directly to the Prime Minister. I take my role in representing Corby & East Northamptonshire very seriously
and in my experience, firm, but private representations, are more effective than public pronouncements in any
event. As such, you can be assured that I have made our local views known.
Finally,I just want to say this. The running theme that has come across in so many of the letters and emails I
have received is that people are tired of the restrictions and want to go about their day-to-day lives as
‘normal’. That is completely understandable and I get it – because I feel that yearning too – and recent days
have seen that frustration come to the fore. But I also know that the overwhelming majority of us in
Northamptonshire do the right thing and will continue to – because ensuring we continue to look out for each
other and that our families and friends are safe and well is our top priority as a community. That too must be
the primary focus of the Government, and mine as your local Member of Parliament, in the days and weeks
ahead, as we responsibly ease the restrictions and move forward as a nation, ensuring we do so safely and
minimising risk to our community. The Prime Minister and the Government have my strongest backing in that
exceptionally challenging work which is vital for us all and I am hugely appreciative of your patience.
Once again, thank you for having taken the time to contact me – all the very best to you and your family and
please stay safe and well.
With best wishes,
Tom
This is my response to him…
Dear Mr. Pursglove,
I received your letter in the post two days ago in reply to my emails concerning how the government has been handling the Cummings issue, but it has taken me until today to calm down enough to express my thoughts in response.
You state “I wish to be absolutely clear in saying that I am under no illusion as to how strongly local people feel about this, and like you, I believe it is essential that the restrictions are adhered to in both letter and spirit”. And “I am clear in my mind that I would not have acted as Mr. Cummings did”.
If you “would not have acted as Mr. Cummings did”, then why not stand up for your beliefs and state them publicly, instead of trying to assure me that you disagree with his actions when you will not condemn them. Then you proceed to go about making excuses for what he did even though you said “I am not going to try and mount a defence on his behalf here…” and instead, you start blaming as “nothing short of deplorable” those outside his household who were protesting his actions.
Why should I or any of your constituents believe that our feelings have been relayed directly to the Prime Minister, when despite the fact that the latest polls state 81% of the population wants Mr. Cummings gone, nothing has happened? I had twice emailed The Prime Minister directly via the official channels to contact him, but have yet to receive the courtesy of a reply from him or his office. He doesn’t give a flying toss about the populace, only his own bloviating self, as evidenced by his actions. He thinks we are stupid and this will all blow over, but we can see through all the blather. I watched PMQs on Wednesday and saw Sir Keir Starmer blow him away. The PM’s behaviour was shameful in that he couldn’t answer questions, and rather blew his top when he was asked legitimate questions about how the pandemic has been handled. And what’s with the ear-piece? Is he waiting for Dominic Cummings to dictate the responses into his ear???? Absolutely pathetic.
Finally, I don’t know where you get the idea that we all ‘want the restrictions eased’. This may be your way of trying to justify the government’s actions in attempting to divert attention away from the issues, i.e. that in addition to the Cummings fiasco, the handling of the pandemic has been absolutely shambolic from the start. Everyone I know and have spoken to in my circle has been horrified that despite the infection numbers being at the SAME level as when we went into lockdown, you are now opening up even non-essential stores and services! Even your scientific advisors have stated that it’s too early to reverse the lockdown, but you – the government – have chosen to ignore this in order to divert attention away from Cummings. So much for ‘following the science’!
While you say that “the overwhelming majority of us in Northamptonshire do the right thing and will continue to do so…”, alas, in real life that is NOT happening. In the town of Oundle people are going about as if nothing had happened, sitting in groups on local benches, not keeping social distancing. So much for following guidelines, ‘be alert’, and social distancing. Those of us in the over 70 age group are now even more concerned about catching the virus than during the very height of the pandemic as there are more people out and about not following the rules or using “good solid British common sense”. That all went out the window when Cummings decided to interpret the rules to suit himself.
Sincerely yours,
etc…
I received a response from Sir GregKnight MP which stated inter alia: “The police have determined that his initial trip was not a breach of the lockdown but have also suggested that Mr Cummings might have committed what they call “a minor breach of the guidelines” when he drove to Barnard Castle on 12th April.”
This clearly demonstrated a fundamental misunderstanding of what the police had concluded, the distinction between the law and guidelines and, also, what Mr Cummings had put forward in his self-serving statement to the media which has not been scrutinised by Durham police in the way that would normally happen with a de facto criminal investigation.
I therefore responded to Mr Knight on 3 June 2020, as follows. I have not received an acknowledgement
Dear Mr Knight,
Thanks you for your reply.
I do ask you to reconsider.
You appear to hang your response on the fact that Mr Cummings was found to have complied with the guidance.
In fact, the Durham Constabulary concluded that there might have been a minor breach of the Regulations (not the guidance), that would have warranted an intervention.
The word “might” is of course not to be interpreted pejoratively; it is self- evidently a reflection of its retrospective consideration of the facts. In any event, only a court can conclude whether a person did or did not act unlawfully. The word “might” was, in these circumstances, the only verb that could be used.
The police were also explicit that it was not within their remit to consider the guidance. (“We are concerned here with breaches of the Regulations, not the general Government guidance to “stay at home”.)
Further, whilst Mr Cummings did however seek to rely upon the guidance, this was only as justification for the journey to Durham, not the trip to Barnard Castle.
So it is wrong to say that the police concluded that this was within the guidance.
It is also relevant that the journey from London to Durham has not been considered by Durham police, possibly because they consider this facet of the investigation to be out of its jurisdiction. At no point did Mr Cummings advance any argument that this journey fell within the list of reasonable excuses. This was because he did not have a reasonable excuse. Moreover, there can be no doubt that this journey also fell outside the guidance.
This confusion between the law (The Regulations) and the guidance is apparent both in your reply and in much of the commentary surrounding the events. Mr Cummings, I suggest, knew his way in and out of these complexities. Because he of course participated in their drafting and implementation.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Hi Alastair.
My MP is Andrew Griffith of Arundel and South Downs. I emailed him 2 weeks ago and a follow up email a week later. I did get a short and curt reply to my follow up promising a reply shortly. Another week on and still no reply. I have a few friends who have also yet to receive a response from him. I shall add my current email threads below
Keep up the good work
Matthew
GRIFFITH, Andrew
Mon 01/06/2020 20:25
To:
• You
Matthew,
There will be a personal reply. For that reason – and I need to prioritise things like redundancies and domestic violence I am also dealing with – it’ll be a little while longer I’m afraid.
Kind regards,
Andrew
Andrew Griffith MP
Member of Parliament for Arundel and South Downs
House of Commons | Westminster | London | SW1A 0AA
http://www.AndrewGriffithMP.com
Follow my work in Westminster by signing up here
From: matthew almond
Sent: 01 June 2020 19:07
To: GRIFFITH, Andrew
Subject: Fw: Support of D Cummings
Dear Andrew
It has been a week and I have still not received a reply to my letter below. Is there likely to be a reply, or a press statement or even a twitter post to answer any of my concerns?
Many thanks
Matthew
________________________________________
From: matthew almond
Sent: 26 May 2020 07:47
To: andrew.griffith.mp@parliament.uk
Subject: Support of D Cummings
Dear Andrew Griffiths
I am writing to express my disappointment at your support of Mr Cummings travelling to Durham whilst potentially infected with covid 19. How can you possibly defend this journey when millions of people around the country have made sacrifices to try and stop the spread of this dreadful disease?
I personally was locked down in early March, before the government advice to do so, because I was showing symptoms. Since then I have not seen my elderly mum, who lives on her own. I have not seen my children, one of whom is a nurse and putting her health at risk help others. I, and my family, have continued to protect ourselves and others by staying home, not because the government belatedly told us to, but because I want to get through this as soon as possible with all of my family in tact, whist not infecting others in the process. Can you please answer me why me and my family have to take these measures, yet Mr Cummings does not? If we all decided to put family first then people would not have missed the funerals of loved ones or other important family events such as births or birthdays.
It is clear to see that Mr and Mrs Cummings should not have risked the lives of so many people by travelling the length of the UK whilst potentially infected. They would have needed comfort breaks, they would have put members of their own family at risk and they clearly broke the flimsy guidelines this government put in place. To also find out that he also had a little family day out whilst at Barnard Castle, which he took during the weekend where the pandemic was killing 900 people a day, is a further kick in the teeth to all of us who have done the right thing. How is it a good idea to put your family in a car to test that your eyesight is okay to drive? That does not sound rational or safe or something that any normal person would consider.
So my questions remain. Why was it okay for Mr Cummings to break the rules so flagrantly? Why did you think it would be a good idea to support these actions on twitter? What do you have to say to your constituents who have observed the lockdown measures whilst putting up with greater hardship and worse family circumstances than Mr Cummings was faced with? Would it have been acceptable for me and my family to travel to the North East if my extended family owned a farm? Or would you have been one of the first to criticise my actions if I was found out?
I very much welcome your comments on this matter and look forward to your reply.
Your Sincerely
Matthew Almond
Good afternoon,
Please see the below response which Mr Campbell has asked me to pass on to you.
Further to my previous email to you regarding the actions of Dominic Cummings, the Prime Minister’s adviser. I am sorry for not updating you sooner, as you are aware I took up the issue directly with Number 10 and had hoped for at least a reply which I could send out to my constituents. Unfortunately no such reply has been forthcoming.
I have taken up this matter again with Number 10 – although the issue may no longer dominate the front pages it has not gone away. I have been able to refer to particular concerns by my constituents in an attempt to convey the level of public concern and anger – so thank you for getting in touch.
A number of constituents have asked what more can be done to ensure Dominic Cummings departure. The fact that a senior adviser drew up public health guidelines which he then himself broke has angered those who followed the rules and alarmed those who see the dangers of there being one rule for some and a different rule for others. The fact is the Prime Minister appointed Dominic Cummings. He sheltered him during this political storm and sees no reason why Dominic Cummings should go. Dominic Cummings refuses to do the decent thing and resign and the Prime Minister refuses to do the decent thing and sack him. Until one or both of them change their position Dominic Cummings continues in his role. It is I am sorry to say all too illustrative of the cavalier approach of the Prime Minister and this government who believe their 80 seat majority is a mandate to flaunt the rules,
I appreciate the public concern and anger particularly during these very difficult and uncertain times. We may have to await an official inquiry into the handling of the pandemic by the Government before the full extent of the damage by this issue is clear.
I hope you can stay safe and well.
Best wishes
Alan Campbell MP
My response from Stuart Andrew MP
Dear Catherine Smith,
Thank you for your email about the Prime Minister’s adviser, Dominic Cummings.
I am grateful for you taking the time to set your views out clearly as this has been very helpful in assisting me with making the strongest possible representations on your behalf directly to the Prime Minister.
While I am afraid it is not possible to respond individually at this time due to the volume of emails I have received on this subject and many others, I would like to be clear that I personally would not have made the decisions or taken the actions that Mr Cummings has. I do very much feel that during these unprecedented times I should make the same sacrifices that my constituents are being asked to make and that it is very important to lead by example. I appreciate that it can be difficult to make a rational decision when faced with concerns over the health and safety of your child, but equally I appreciate that many of my constituents have faced very trying circumstances during the same period and have responded, in my view, in a preferable manner. I do therefore understand entirely the anger with which you write, and I do feel that it is entirely reasonable for individuals who have lost loved ones and those who are deeply missing their own family and friends to disagree with Mr Cummings version of events.
I am fortunate to be in a position within the Government where I am able to engage directly with the Prime Minister and other Cabinet Ministers on a regular basis and I use this platform to ensure the views of those I represent are being heard by the Government. The understandable concern surrounding Mr Cummings is no different, and I have made your position and views on this very clear to the Prime Minister with firm, but private, representations as this is far more effective than denunciation.
Going forward, I am conscious that we have a critical task ahead in reviving our economy and safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of people. The number of individuals who have got in touch with me to raise very real concerns about their future is worrying, and at present they are not receiving any attention as I have had an extraordinary number of emails on this issue. These constituents do need my attention and support at this time, so I hope you can forgive me if I concentrate on this important work.
That does not mean I have not taken your points very seriously and I have ensured that the Prime Minister is in no doubt as to the anger that my constituents are feeling on this.
Kind regards
Stuart
Stuart Andrew MP
Member of Parliament for Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough
My MP is Dr. Julian Lewis, the only MP to still refuse to communicate via email. I sent an email to him via his Constituebcy party email address, apparently they do pass them on to him. This was about 10 days ago, it had my address, nothing back yet either via email or letter.
I’m not holding out much hope of a reply. Considering one of his letters to me basically said “Thanks for your letter. I disagree.” even if he does reply it probably won’t be worth the bother.
From:
James Heappey
Member of Parliament for Wells
Dear constituent,
Thank you for your correspondence over the way that the Prime Minister’s Chief Adviser Dominic Cummings travelled to Durham during the lockdown. I have spent the last week reading over a thousand emails and letters and making sure that your views are shared with my colleagues in Number 10.
As I said on Twitter on Saturday, I was reluctant to rush to condemn Dominic Cummings because I did not know exactly what the circumstances were which lead him to take such action. We have since heard Mr Cummings’ account, it has been scrutinised by the press, and Durham Police confirmed yesterday that they would not be taking any action.
We will have all had our doomsday plan for what we would do if all the adults in our household were incapacitated by this virus and young children needed caring for. I would not have needed to travel as we are blessed with friends and family very nearby, but the guidance did allow for journeys to be made to access childcare in this exceptional circumstance.
I appreciate how the slightest suspicion that there could be one rule for some and another for the rest of us is maddening in the extreme and I have every sympathy with those who say they would not have done as Dominic Cummings did. I have even more sympathy for those who when faced with circumstances no less exceptional, stayed at home despite the emotional and physical costs to them and their families.
I believe Mr Cummings’ position would have been untenable had Durham Police decided to take action. However, they have decided not to do so.
These are frustrating times for us all. We are fearful of this awful virus and we all yearn to be able to go fully about our lives once again. In the coming weeks, we will be able to meet in small groups outdoors, our children will be able to return to school, businesses will start to re-open and our High Streets will start to come out of hibernation too.
These measures can only happen if the R rate continues to fall and that only happens if the virus is kept under control. This requires a huge national effort to test, track and trace and the Government’s priority is making sure that this mechanism is working at full capacity as quickly as possible.
Today, I met with local council leaders, local small business owners and representatives of Somerset’s visitor economy. Over the last few months I’ve been doing similar every week, keeping in touch employers in our area as well as local health trusts, care homes, farmers, school leaders, voluntary organisations and myriad others who play important parts in our community and our economy. It is clear that, both nationally and locally, there are profound challenges that lie ahead as we navigate a route out of this pandemic.
Whilst I understand the anger this has caused and although this may not be the answer you wanted; I hope you’ll agree that we should now draw a line under this unfortunate incident and move on.
During the last week, I have continued to receive many requests for help from local businesses and vulnerable people in our community. It has been important to read all of the emails and letters I have received over Mr Cummings but it will be impossible to correspond on this matter any further, without impact on my ability to help those who need my assistance as their Member of Parliament.
Yours ever,
James
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James Heappey
Member of Parliament for Wells
020 7219 4289 | House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA
James.heappey.mp@parliament.uk | http://www.jamesheappey.org.uk
I wrote to Robert Jenrick on 27 May and sent a reminder note 9 days later. To date, I still haven’t had a reply from gim.
Exactly what you’d expect from a nodding dog yes-man.