Letters, contributions and comments sent to the Advertiser this week.

Very challenging time ahead

Rushanara Ali MP, Bethnal Green and Bow, writes:

We are facing an extremely difficult and challenging time ahead. I know you’ll be as worried as I am for the health and livelihood of your family and loved ones. My thoughts are with those affected by coronavirus, and I pay tribute to NHS and Public Health England staff who continue to respond to the outbreak with such bravery.

I understand and appreciate your concerns about the pandemic. I am, and will continue to raise your questions and concerns in parliament and directly to ministers, to ensure the government takes all necessary steps to protect our vital services, support our local businesses and above all protect the public and particularly the most vulnerable in our society.

The official advice on coronavirus is constantly changing, so please do make sure you’re following the most up-to-date advice, by using the links listed below. It is vital that we follow the official guidance for coronavirus, which is based on scientific and medical advice.

For all the latest information on coronavirus including symptoms and how to avoid spreading germs visit: nhs.uk/coronavirus. For further information on coronavirus and the UK government’s advice visit: gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

My heartfelt commitment to you is that we’ll work through this together. I am heartened to hear of individuals offering their support to vulnerable people in our community. If you would like to get involved, Tower Hamlets council is currently identifying key organisations that need our help, so if you are interested in volunteering please contact them on covid19@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Tower Hamlets Council is providing email updates on a daily basis, please sign up to ‘health and wellbeing - coronavirus’ updates here - towerhamlets.gov.uk/signup.

I will continue to work constructively with the government in the interest of public health and to ensure the safety of everyone in Bethnal Green and Bow and across the country.

The most vulnerable in our community are set to be hit the hardest

Unmesh Desai, London Assembly Member for City and East, writes:

In these difficult circumstances, it is terrible to see that the most vulnerable in our community are set to be hit the hardest. And yet, it has been incredibly encouraging to see our community reaching out to those in need.

Right now, foodbanks are struggling under the weight of increasing demand.

Help is also coming from City Hall, which has already launched a £2 million emergency support fund for community organisations and set up a dedicated online page for volunteers.

The mayor is also working to ensure homeless people can self-isolate, securing an initial 300 hotel rooms for this purpose.

The congestion charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) have been suspended.

On top of this, all businesses on Transport for London’s estate have been granted full rent relief for three months.