ALAN BROWN MP demands Chancellor works with supermarkets to combat Covid-19.
/ALAN BROWN MP demands Chancellor works with supermarkets to combat Covid-19.
Last week, the representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun raised the issue of supermarket delivery slots for those up and down the country.
Mr Brown weighed in on the Chancellor’s Economic Update on Tuesday night to highlight the difficulties people are facing with trying to get home delivery. Previously, you could get next day delivery for groceries from supermarkets but now some suppliers are taking up to three-weeks.
The MP was contacted by a constituent who under the current circumstances could wait weeks for a home delivery due to following the Government guidance on self-isolation.
Mr Brown raised this case directly with Rishi Sunak MP:
“I was contacted today by a constituent who is self-isolating and has underlying health conditions. She was trying to get a food delivery, which she vitally needs. Tesco could only do it within 10 days, while other suppliers would take three weeks. There is clearly a massive issue, probably a combination of stock levels and delivery logistics. Will the Chancellor do whatever it takes to work with the supermarkets and logistics companies? There are opportunities to get other people into short-term employment if this is done right and quickly, so that people get the supplies that they need.”
The Chancellor responded:
“The hon. Gentleman is right that the security of our food supply and deliveries is critical. My right hon. Friend the Environment Secretary is already having those conversations and has already taken steps on delivery curfews to ensure that deliveries can continue and to maintain the security of those supply chains.”
Commenting on the event, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:
“I was disappointed with the Chancellor’s answer as I do not think he grasped what I was trying to say.
“I have had several constituents who have contacted me in the past week asking for clarity and what to do if they cannot leave the house and how can they get supplies.
“Some people are fortunate enough to have family and friends who can run errands for them and help them whilst they are rightfully following Government guidance and self-isolating to try and combat Covid-19. However, there are others who have no one to assist them and this is something we really have to look at.
“Additionally, my SNP colleagues have written to supermarket chiefs urging them to give priority to the elderly and most vulnerable in our society. Of course, this is a measure I fully support and will do all I can to help.
“I am currently working alongside East Ayrshire Council to sign-post constituents to the right areas and to try and assist those who cannot get out of their homes.”
A link to the video can be accessed HERE
