THE deputy leader of the Harlow Conservatives has issued an individual response regarding the conduct of prime minister Boris Johnson and his staff in Downing Street.

Old Harlow councillor Joel Charles is at the head of the Covid response and recovery group for Harlow Council. He has also travelled the length and breadth of the country supporting the Conservative party on the doorstep.

Cllr Joel Charles said:

“I recognise the anger and disappointment residents in Old Harlow and the wider town feel at this time. The town has continued to show great courage and determination to confront the pandemic. I think it is important not to lose sight of the need to work together to rebuild after the pandemic – that is where our collective focus should be.

“During the first lockdown, I volunteered with the Royal Voluntary Service to deliver prescriptions and food to vulnerable residents in Old Harlow and across the town. Many local volunteers did the same. The acts of compassion and selflessness of local volunteers are what should be remembered from the previous lockdowns.

“The mood in Harlow due to actions in Westminster highlight that all Conservatives need to step up and show leadership to provide a way forward. I will continue to push the Government to focus on the vaccination programme and the need to fully open up our economy. What matters now is the town’s recovery from COVID-19, which will be my priority in the coming weeks and months ahead.”