Call for travel help for NHS workers

MPs have urged Greater Manchester’s Mayor to provide free transport for frontline workers during the coronavirus lockdown.
Leigh MP James GrundyLeigh MP James Grundy
Leigh MP James Grundy

Leigh MP James Grundy and his colleague Chris Green, who represents Bolton West and Atherton, have signed a joint letter with fellow Conservative politicians from across the North West, asking for Andy Burnham to replicated similar policies from elsewhere in the UK.

The letter, penned by Chris Clarkson, the MP for Haywood and Middleton, said: “Now more than ever we are reliant

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upon the dedication of the incredible people who work in our NHS.

“My colleagues and I are calling on you to replicate this excellent initiative in Greater Manchester. I understand that this agreement has been reached in conjunction with transport operators and the West Midlands Combined Authority and I would urge you to work constructively with our transport providers in Greater Manchester to support our NHS staff at this difficult time.

“I also note the children of key workers travelling to school will be able to make use of this free travel on the production of the supporting letters which allow them to attend school. I would also urge you to consider introducing this measure too.

“This small gesture would go a long way to recognise the amazing contribution and sacrifices made by those people on the frontline in our national response to coronavirus. Please could I ask you to give this urgent attention as with the new temporary hospital at Manchester Central there will be an even greater demand on our key workers in the regional sector.”

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