Category: News & Articles
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February 1, 2022
Julian hails government U-turn on mandatory NHS worker vaccination
As someone who voted against the government’s proposal for mandatory vaccination for frontline NHS staff, I warmly welcome the Health Secretary’s announcement yesterday that he will now consult on ending this. I am glad he seems to be listening to Conservative MPs like me who resisted the imposition of the policy in December, and expect […] -
February 1, 2022
Julian Reacts To Sue Gray Report Update
Having waited for the conclusion of Sue Gray’s investigation for some weeks now, I read with disappointment the stripped-back update that was published yesterday. While it is not clear how much of Sue Gray’s report is being withheld for the duration of the Metropolitan Police investigation, we can say for certain that an overhaul of […] -
January 26, 2022
Covid travel testing ended for vaccinated from mid-February
As someone who has robustly campaigned for a safe return to normal international travel arrangements, I warmly welcome the announcement that from 11th February fully vaccinated people returning to this country will no longer have to take a lateral flow test after arrival. This comes into effect just in time for the half-term holidays, and […] -
January 26, 2022
York Press column – Government must restore trust as we escape from restrictions
I could not speak to York Press readers without addressing the latest incredibly concerning revelations and allegations about the Prime Minister and Number 10 staff breaching covid rules to hold social events during 2020. Notwithstanding other government achievements during the pandemic, from furlough to vaccination, these stories raise alarming questions about the Prime Minister’s judgement […] -
January 21, 2022
Government announcement on ending covid restrictions
“Given the amazing success of the booster programme in protecting York households, and the latest encouraging virus data, I am glad the government has decided to let current ‘Plan B’ measures expire at the end of this month. Although I have serious concerns about the Prime Minister’s judgement on other matters, I think he has […] -
January 18, 2022
Julian welcomes Cystic Fibrosis medicine announcement
I am delighted by the recent news that the life-changing Kaftrio modular therapy has been approved by regulators for prescription to young children with Cystic Fibrosis. I understand 6-11 year olds will soon be able to access this treatment, which could be of very considerable help in managing this terrible condition at such a formative […] -
January 14, 2022
York Press column – Finally we are learning to live with covid
As we move through the cold days and early evenings, we have the significant consolation that the government has so far resisted the urge to again suspend normal life through lockdown. After the cruel separations of last December, it was a relief to enjoy a fairly normal Christmas and New Year, with Ministers now trusting […] -
January 12, 2022
Statement on alleged Downing Street Parties
The recent revelations about the party in the garden of Number 10 on the 20th May 2020 are deeply disturbing and further undermine public confidence in the judgment of the Prime Minister, who must take full responsibility. The Prime Minister came to the House of Commons, admitted his involvement in the party and duly apologised. […] -
January 1, 2022
Julian’s New Year Message – York Press
After another year dominated by covid, I want to warmly wish residents a Happy New Year. I know many York households have suffered appallingly from the pandemic, with 2021 proving a second grim year. I have been listening and working for you throughout this ordeal, and am here to help in any way I can. […] -
December 29, 2021
York Press column: 2021 a Year of Wins for York
With this being my last column of the year, it is hard not to reflect on the 2021; a year where in some places we feel we have come so far and in others we are experiencing deja vu. It is also important to remember that while the pandemic has dominated the news, life has […]
