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Gerald Jones is the Labour Member of Parliament for the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency.

Supporting constituents during the firebreak lockdown

As we all continue to adjust to the new restrictions in place as part of the temporary firebreak lockdown, I want to assure constituents that my team and I are still working to support you with any issues or concerns you may have, and if you require advice or support at any time please contact my office on 01685 383739 or at gerald.jones.mp@parliament.uk.

At this difficult time, our local authorities, as well as charitable organisations, volunteers and other key partners have continued their amazing work supporting residents’ physical and mental wellbeing and maintaining vital public services, and their contribution to our local communities has been immeasurable.

The Welsh Government has also made further support available to local businesses through the Lockdown Business Fund. Businesses in Caerphilly County Borough affected by the restrictions can apply for grants through the fund via Caerphilly Council’s website here: caerphilly.gov.uk/Services/Coronavirus/Covid-19-Support-for-businesses

Local lockdown restrictions: urging the UK Government to support those who’ve been refused holiday refunds

Last month in Parliament, I called on the Prime Minister to take action to support people in Wales who were unable to go on their holidays due to local lockdown restrictions, and were refused refunds by travel firms.

Although at the time the Prime Minister alarmingly said he wasn’t aware of people being affected by this issue, he asked me to write to him with the details. Almost a month after writing to the Prime Minister I received a reply from the Government, advising that it had published new guidance for companies to ensure they issue refunds when people are unable to travel due to local lockdown measures.

A number of residents from across Merthyr Tydfil and the Upper Rhymney Valley, which were of course subject to local lockdown measures in Merthyr Tydfil and Caerphilly county boroughs, have raised concerns with me about this issue, and in Parliament earlier this month I called on the Government once again to take action with holiday companies.

It’s completely unacceptable for people to miss out on their refunds simply for doing the right thing, and the Government must step up and take further action to support those affected.

Constituency work continues despite lockdown measures

With doorstep advice surgeries still not possible for the time being due to the lockdown measures in place, my office and I have been telephoning local residents in areas across Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency to take up casework and any queries or concerns. We’ve had positive response from local residents in our sessions so far, and we we’ll be continuing these surgeries regularly going forward.

It was a pleasure to take part in some virtual Q&A sessions with pupils at Fochriw and Bryn Awel primary schools earlier this month, too, who asked me a range of interesting and varied questions, demonstrating a deep respect and understanding of issues facing our communities and our country.