Bassetlaw MP : People need to use common sense on new lockdown rules

However, it will still be a good while before we can return to anything that resembles what we would consider as ‘normal’.

It’s a difficult balance making sure that we not only do our very best to contain and eradicate the virus, but also make sure that we can support businesses and those in employment.

This is why the Government has taken the steps it has so far to help the economy bounce back.

Nobody has been told that they must immediately go back to work (this is up to employers) and the furlough scheme has been extended to October.

Businesses that could have operated anyway (for example construction and manufacturing) are now being encouraged to open as long as they take steps to ensure adequate social distancing.

Restrictions on the housing market have also been lifted.

The new rules effectively mean people are allowed to spend more time outdoors, go to parks have a picnic and go fishing.

Tennis courts and golf courses can also re-open and people will also be able to see somebody from another household, as long as they follow social distance rules.

However, as per the previous guidance, people cannot go on holiday, visit and stay overnight at a holiday home or second home, visit the homes of friends and family, unless it’s to help a vulnerable person, or take a child to another household with whom parental responsibilities are shared.

The main thing is people need to use their common sense.

It’s impossible to produce a handbook detailing every single scenario or social situation.

The guidance is there to assist people in making sensible choices and they should use their own judgement as to whether they believe something is necessary or not.

I went into politics because I believe strongly in the concept of individual freedoms and making sure people are able to make their own choices in life.

The last thing we want is to live in a state where everything needs to be dictated to people, and in this sense I don’t believe that ‘nanny knows best’.

Brendan Clarke-Smith is MP for Bassetlaw.